6 Ghanaian Artistes Who Struggled to Maintain Their Fame After Hit Songs
In Ghana’s ever-evolving music industry, breaking through with a hit song is a significant achievement—but staying relevant is the true test of an artiste’s staying power. Over the years, several musicians have dazzled fans with chart-topping singles, only to gradually fade from the spotlight.
This article highlights six Ghanaian artistes whose careers slowed down after early success:
1. Atom Reloaded
Atom Reloaded took Ghana by storm in 2015 with his mega-hit “Yɛ Wo Krom” featuring Jhunea. The song’s popularity reached international heights, even being referenced during an Apple Inc. event. Despite the buzz, Atom famously claimed he didn’t need a management team—an assertion that many believe may have contributed to his career stall. By 2018, reports surfaced of him seeking spiritual intervention at Rev. Obofour’s church. Atom has since been quiet on the mainstream music front.
2. Wisa Greid
Wisa Greid, born Eugene Ashie, was once among Ghana’s most promising young talents with hits like “Ekiki Mi”, “Mintse Bo”, and “Cocoa”. However, a 2015 stage incident during a live concert where he exposed himself dealt a massive blow to his brand. Despite attempts at a comeback—including a 2023 remix of “Ekiki Mi” featuring Sarkodie—Wisa has struggled to reclaim his former glory.
3. Dead Peepol
The music duo Dead Peepol broke out in 2020 with the viral anthem “Otan Hunu”, which earned them the Best Group of the Year at the 2021 3Music Awards. They followed up with a star-studded remix featuring Kuami Eugene, Fameye, Medikal, and others. Yet, subsequent releases failed to match their debut success, and their presence on the charts has since dwindled.
4. Imrana
Imrana made a heartfelt entrance into the music scene with “Imagine Say” in 2020, earning widespread acclaim. But behind the scenes, tensions with his record label Midas Touch stifled his momentum. He later expressed regret over unmet promises by the label. Though he released follow-ups like “Crisis” and “Wonka”, none reached the impact of his breakout single.
5. Edoh YAT
Known for his emotional lyrics, Edoh YAT rose to fame with the 2020 hit “Wind”, a song that connected with many young fans. He followed up with projects like “Awake”, “Broken”, and “Day Turn Night”, but these failed to replicate the success of “Wind.” Despite staying active, Edoh YAT has not enjoyed the same level of recognition since his initial breakthrough.
6. AY Poyoo
Internet sensation AY Poyoo became a viral figure with “Goat”, which earned him international attention for his comedic and unconventional style. However, in 2024, his career hit a major roadblock when his entire music catalogue was taken down due to a dispute with his former label, Aborga Records. Since their separation in March 2024, AY Poyoo has dropped new songs like “Alfa Hour”, “Push”, and “Akua Donkor”, but is yet to regain his viral status.