Rap’s revolutionary influence is truly global. From the oral traditions of the West African griots down to the hoods of every city, USA. History is full of important Ghanaians in the Americas- including Harriet Tubman, Nat Turner, Denmark Vessy to entertainers like Bob Marley and Kofi Siriboe. Here are 5 rap figures that also share Ghanian ancestry.
Vic Mensa
The Chicago rapper was born Victor Kwesi Mensah to a Ghanian father. He is signed to Roc Nation.
Virgil Abloh
In addition to being an executive and fashion maven, Virgil is Ghanian American. He is from Rockford, IL. He is also a DJ and has curated album covers for Kanye West and Pop Smoke.
M.anifest
M.anifest was born in Ghana. He moved to the Minneapolis-St Paul area in 2001 to attend Macalester College.
V.I.C.
The “Get Silly” rapper ws born Victor Grimmy Owusu in Queens, NY. The song went gold and reached number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Shatta Wale
The well known African dancehall artist is from Accra, Ghana. He was featured on Beyoncé’s The Gift from The Lion King.
Read: Rap to Africa: 5 raw rap figures with vibrant Ghanian heritage
