The debate over who truly pioneered the Afro-Dancehall genre has resurfaced—and now, a key figure in Ghana’s music industry is setting the record straight.
Karl Kporgla Gidiglo, former Artiste and Business Manager of Stonebwoy, has come out in firm support of the musician’s claim that he coined and championed the term “Afro-Dancehall” over a decade ago.
Karl noted that the genre was birthed during Stonebwoy’s early career efforts to blend African sounds with traditional Dancehall music—a move that initially faced backlash.
“Let’s set the record straight: the term Afro-Dancehall was coined and championed by none other than Stonebwoy,” Karl stated in an interview with Graphic Showbiz.
“He boldly pioneered the genre, blending African rhythms with Dancehall elements at a time when such innovation was met with criticism.”
Karl also recalled the resistance Stonebwoy faced from veteran voices in the industry. “Despite facing backlash from some quarters and the likes of Gyedu-Blay Ambolley for what they called ‘diluted Dancehall,’ Stonebwoy stayed true to his vision, helping shape a unique sound that now resonates across the continent and beyond.”
Although the genre has gained global traction, Karl admitted there was a missed opportunity. “It is, however, unfortunate that we did not take steps to officially patent the name back in 2012 when this movement began.
Nonetheless, the legacy and influence are undeniable, and Stonebwoy deserves credit for it.”
The renewed conversation comes in the wake of public remarks by fellow Ghanaian artist Samini, who has claimed ownership over the Afro-Dancehall movement.
Samini argues that he laid the groundwork for the genre’s growth and has cautioned against attempts to rewrite its history.
