Meet the Ghanaian producers at the forefront of Afrobeats’ evolution.
On the Afrobeats scene, Ghanaian musicians have long been a formidable force, with trailblazers like Fuse ODG, R2Bees, and Sarkodie etching their names into the genre’s rich history. Each has played a pivotal role in defining and shaping the sound in their own distinct style. Yet, the question remains: Do the producers behind these hits receive the same level of recognition and acclaim?
Afrobeats is a genre in constant evolution, and behind every infectious rhythm and genre-blending hit, there’s a producer pushing creative boundaries. Ghanaian producers have played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Afrobeats, blending local influences with global trends to create some of the genre’s biggest hits. From highlife-inspired melodies to hard-hitting club anthems, their work has been key in defining the ever-changing sound of African music.
While there is a rich history of legendary Ghanaian producers from the peak hiplife era, such as Zap Mallet, Hammer, Jay Q, Kaywa, and many more, this article shifts focus to the producers shaping Afrobeats today. Some have been in the game for years, crafting hits for top artists across the continent, while others are part of a new wave bringing fresh energy and experimentation to the scene.
Here are 10 Ghanaian producers driving the sound forward.
1. Killbeatz
Joseph Kwame Addison, better known as KillBeatz, is a renowned producer and sound engineer who has played a pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s Highlife, Hiplife, and Afrobeats sounds. Originally starting out as a rapper, he transitioned into production and became a key figure in the success of R2Bees. His notable productions include hits like Slow Down featuring Wizkid, Tonight, and Kiss Your Hand with Wande Coal. KillBeatz continues to be a major force in Ghanaian music, now shaping the sound of artists like King Promise and the newly signed Raevin, both under his Legacy Life Entertainment imprint.
2. Juls
Julian Nii Ayitey Adjin Nicco-Annan, professionally known as Juls, has carved out a unique space in Afrobeats by seamlessly blending elements of jazz, hip-hop, reggae, and highlife. A true game-changer, he introduced a chilled, laid-back sound that stood in stark contrast to the genre’s typically high-energy production. Tracks like Skin Tight and Bankulize for Mr Eazi will forever be remembered for defining this distinctive vibe. Juls has worked with nearly every major name in the industry, from Wizkid to Burna Boy, leaving an indelible mark on the evolution of Afrobeats. His influence remains undeniable as he continues to push sonic boundaries and shape the genre’s future.
3. GuiltyBeatz
GuiltyBeatz rose to prominence with Akwaaba featuring Mr Eazi, Patapaa, and Pappy Kojo, one of the biggest Afrobeats anthems of 2018. His talent quickly caught the attention of global icons, leading to contributions on Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift album, where he produced Already, Keys to the Kingdom, and Find Your Way Back. Known for blending Afrobeats with electronic and dance elements, GuiltyBeatz is constantly pushing the boundaries of sound. Beyond club anthems, he also played a key role in shaping Tems’ sound, with production credits on 12 of the 18 tracks on her debut album, Born In The Wild.
4. Nektunez
Born Noble Eli Zogli, Nektunez has collaborated with top Ghanaian artists like Stonebwoy, M.anifest, and R2Bees. His 2021 Ameno Amapiano (Remix), a casual mix of Era’s classic, became a global sensation, propelling him to international fame. Known for blending Amapiano, Afrobeats, choral chants, and hip-hop, he creates a sound that transcends borders. His production on Mohbad’s posthumous Ask About Me further cements his knack for crafting global hits while staying true to his African roots. He recently signed a managerial partnership with Akon’s Konvict Kulture music label.
5. Sammy Soso
Sammy Soso is a Grammy-nominated British-Ghanaian producer, songwriter, and engineer who has contributed to some of Afrobeats’ most influential global releases. He co-wrote and produced Water for Tyla, a track that became a viral hit. His impressive portfolio includes contributions to Wizkid’s Made in Lagos and More Love, Less Ego, as well as Headie One’s The Last One.
6. Team Salut
London-based duo Team Salut, comprising Ghanaian Gabriel Wood and Sierra Leonean Glenard Kojo Patnelli, have been a driving force in shaping the UK’s vibrant Afrobeats scene. The pair, who first crossed paths at church, have since been creating dynamic and impactful music. Known for their seamless fusion of Afrobeats with dancehall and UK club sounds, they first gained recognition with the hit Dance For Me by Mr Eazi and Eugy. Their production on Afro B’s Drogba (Joanna) became a global sensation, solidifying their influence on the international music scene.
7. Ugly x Tough
Ugly x Tough is a rising production duo shaping the future of Ghanaian music. They have crafted hits like Lomo Lomo by KiDi and Black Sherif, as well as Excellent by Kojo Black and Kelvynboy. With their fresh sound and innovative approach, it’s only a matter of time before they take their music to the world stage.
8. Beatz Vampire
Peter Asare Badiako, known as Beatz Vampire, is a standout talent in Ghana’s new wave of producers. He has crafted hits like JZyNO’s Butta My Bread, KiDi’s Likor, and Olivetheboy’s Goodsin. On the international stage, he produced Beautiful by Jahmiel featuring Stonebwoy and played a key role in P-Square’s short-lived return with Jaiye. His ability to blend Afrobeats with diverse contemporary sounds makes him one of the industry’s versatile young producers to watch.
9. M.O.G Beatz
Multiple award-winning producer M.O.G Beatz has gone from rising star to dominating Ghanaian airwaves in recent years. With an impressive portfolio, including chart-toppers like Kizz Daniel’s My G, Stonebwoy’s Everlasting, and Lil Kesh’s Feeling Funny, M.O.G Beatz has solidified his place in the industry. Recently signing an exclusive publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing, he’s poised to take his sound to global heights.
10. Ghanaian Stallion
Alan Mensah, professionally known as Ghanaian Stallion, is a Ghanaian-German producer and DJ making waves in both the Ghanaian and German hip-hop scenes. He initially gained recognition for his work with Asaaka artists in Ghana’s trap scene. His production on Black Sherif’s global hit Second Sermon, featuring Burna Boy, solidified his place in the industry. With a distinctive blend of hip-hop and Afrobeats, Ghanaian Stallion is definitely one to watch.
