Ghanaian reggae/dancehall artiste Epixode has responded to recent comments by secular musician-turned-pastor, Lord Kenya, who criticized the use of Patois by some young Ghanaian musicians, describing it as “not proper Patios.”
In an interview with Nana Romeo on Accra-based Okay FM, Epixode, known for his distinct reggae style and use of Patois in his music, respectfully pushed back on the criticism, calling for recognition and mutual respect between generations in the music industry.
“I won’t get it 100%. It will sound cliché in the ears of real Jamaicans. It’s like a Ga like me trying to speak Twi,” Epixode said, admitting that the version of Patois spoken locally may not be entirely authentic.
“What we speak here is not really Patois. No disrespect, but some of these comments make the young ones feel disrespected. They’ll say, ‘In your prime, we respected you, so why are you trying to thrash our hard work in our prime?’ That becomes a problem,”he added.
Epixode emphasized the importance of seeing younger artistes as continuing the legacies of those before them, rather than tearing them down.
“I really don’t want to speak about that, but I think sometimes they should see us as continuing their legacy. Else, the next generation will find themselves fighting them and it’ll always continue like that. Let’s enjoy music. Whether it’s Patois or not…”he stated.
Citing legendary Ghanaian musician Kojo Antwi, Epixode noted that language has never been a barrier to good music.
“Most of Kojo Antwi’s reggae songs are not in Patois, but they are legendary records our children will come and enjoy. The language barrier is actually not the problem,” he said.
Despite his criticism of Lord Kenya’s remarks, Epixode expressed admiration for the former hiplife star, acknowledging the influence he’s had on his performance style.
“I have learnt a lot from Lord Kenya, one of the people I look up to when it comes to stage performance…”
Lord Kenya, who dominated the Ghanaian music scene in the late 90s and early 2000s, gave his life to Christ over a decade ago and now pastors a church.
His recent comments have sparked conversations about authenticity, language use, and intergenerational respect within Ghana’s music circles.