Ghanaian rapper and producer EL has opened up about the challenges that affected the growth of the Azonto genre, stating that disputes over ownership ultimately contributed to its decline.
Speaking during an interview on Entertainment Review on Metro TV with host Nana Yaa on Monday, February 23, the award-winning musician reflected on the period when Azonto dominated both local and international music scenes.
According to EL, the wave of individuals claiming ownership of the sound created unnecessary limitations that stifled innovation. He explained that when too many stakeholders attempt to control a cultural movement, it becomes difficult for artistes to freely experiment and evolve the genre.
“The ownership of the Azonto genre killed the sound,” he stated firmly, adding that arguments over who created or owned Azonto distracted from the creativity that initially made it powerful and globally appealing.
Azonto, which emerged in the early 2010s, quickly became one of Ghana’s most influential music and dance exports. The genre gained international attention for its energetic dance moves and catchy rhythms, with several Ghanaian artistes riding the wave to global recognition. However, as the genre grew in popularity, debates surrounding its origin and ownership also intensified.
EL suggested that instead of allowing the sound to evolve organically, some industry players became more focused on credit and control. In his view, this environment discouraged experimentation and prevented artistes from pushing Azonto into new territories.
His comments highlight broader issues within Ghana’s music industry, where successful genres can sometimes become politicised or overly commercialised. When that happens, the emphasis often shifts from creativity and collaboration to rivalry and gatekeeping.
EL’s reflections serve as a reminder of how cultural sounds thrive best in open, collaborative environments. By allowing freedom of expression and innovation, genres can grow beyond their original form and maintain long-term relevance.
As Ghana’s music scene continues to expand globally, conversations like these may shape how emerging genres are nurtured to ensure sustainability and artistic growth.
