Sarkodie, born Michael Owusu Addo, has carved an indelible mark in African music history.
From his early days in Tema to global stages, he’s become synonymous with lyrical dexterity, cultural pride, and sonic innovation. With a discography that spans over a decade, Sarkodie’s journey is not just about hits—it’s a story of reinvention, experimentation, and occasional controversy.
This exclusive article explores his studio albums, EPs, and the missteps that have shaped his legacy.
Albums
- Maakye (2010)
Sarkodie’s debut album introduced him as a fierce lyricist. Featuring Mugeez and Kwaw Kese, it fused hiplife and rap, with tracks like Push and Baby becoming instant classics. - Rapperholic (2012)
Cementing his status, this album blended highlife and hip-hop. Hits like U Go Kill Me sparked the Azonto craze, while collaborations with Efya and EL showcased his versatility. - Sarkology (2014)
A 30-track behemoth, Sarkology was his most ambitious project. Featuring Burna Boy, Davido, and Tiwa Savage, it positioned Sarkodie as a pan-African force. Adonai with Castro became a cultural anthem. - Mary (2015)
A tribute to his late grandmother, this live album veered into highlife, with Akwaboah as producer. It revealed a softer, more introspective Sarkodie. - Highest (2017)
With 19 tracks, this album balanced introspection and bravado. Collaborations with Runtown and Flavour added Afrobeat flair, while Pain Killer became a continental hit. - Black Love (2019)
Focused on romance and relationships, this album featured Mr Eazi, King Promise, and Idris Elba. Can’t Let You Go was a heartfelt tribute to his wife. - No Pressure (2021)
A mature Sarkodie emerged here, blending hip-hop, Afrobeat, and dancehall. With features from Oxlade, Kwesi Arthur, and Wale, it tackled themes of fame, love, and resilience. - Jamz (2022)
A sonic celebration, Jamz fused Afropop, amapiano, and hip-hop. Featuring Black Sherif, King Promise, and Joeboy, it was a vibrant showcase of Sarkodie’s adaptability.
EPs
- Alpha (2019)
A six-track EP featuring Joey B and the late Ebony Reigns, Alpha was a lyrical flex, reminding fans of Sarkodie’s rap supremacy. - The Championship (2024)
Released after Jamz, this EP was a return to gritty bars. Tracks like Brag reignited debates about Africa’s greatest rapper, while Trauma and Loyalty explored personal and societal themes.
Mistakes
- Fashion faux pas
Sarkodie faced backlash when designer Elikem Kumordzie publicly criticized his outfit, sparking debates about professionalism in Ghana’s fashion industry. - Gari soakings post
A cryptic Instagram post referencing “gari soakings” was interpreted as political shade, leading to online backlash. Sarkodie responded subtly, defending his right to express himself. - Unreleased songs
Sarkodie admitted to having over 800 unreleased tracks, raising questions about missed opportunities and over-curation. - House help controversy
A former houseboy publicly apologized for betraying Sarkodie’s trust, revealing the rapper’s generosity and the emotional toll of broken relationships.
Sarkodie’s journey is a masterclass in evolution.
The post The Sarkodie catalogue: Albums, EPs, and the lessons behind the lyrics appeared first on MyNewsGh.
