Interview with Ayigbe Edem, Ghana's premier Ewe rapper

When Ayigbe Edem released Keva (Bougez), he made a statement. Ewe rap is here to stay on a Ghanaian rap scene mainly dominated by Twi rappers. He has become one of the most respected rappers in Ghana and arguably, the one with the most swagger. He is now the most popular rapper in Togo and if any Ghanaian rapper will break into the Francophone market, Denning Edem Agbeviadey is poised to be that person. Museke.com finally got a chance to interview him about his music as he prepares to be the revelation of 2011 with his latest album, 'Mass Production'. Below is the interview transcript.

Museke.com: Hello, how are you?
Ayigbe Edem: TERRIFIC
Museke.com: What is your full name? Can you tell us about your background and family?

Ayigbe Edem: It's a statement which symbolizes the Volta region taking over the hip-hop turf in Ghana and Africa

Museke.com: How does 'Mass Production' differ from your debut album?

Ayigbe Edem: The 'volta regime' is a statement and 'mass production' is a revelation.

Museke.com: What have been your most memorable or favorite collaborations with other musicians?

Legacy song with Tinny about?
Ayigbe Edem: The song's intentions is to remind all of us the legacy hammer has given birth to through all his acts.

Museke.com: We understand you are the most popular rapper in Togo now. How do you feel with how the Togolese have received you?

Ayigbe Edem: Well I will wanna get in the studio with Asa and Fally Ipupa and I will be working with toofan and coco van m for a start…others are in the pipeline….

Museke.com: What challenges do you face in the music industry (piracy, payola (paying deejays to play music), etc)?

Ayigbe Edem: Piracy is the cancer eating our artistry

Museke.com: How can Ghanaian music expand and sell outside?

Ayigbe Edem: We need major labels like with all structures in place..eg..sonymusic

Museke.com: You are active on Twitter and Facebook. How are these social websites changing the way musicians go about marketing their music?

Ayigbe Edem: I believe it has helped tremendously to get the music direct to the fan without a third party..that cuts out payola.

Museke.com: What record label are you on?
Ayigbe Edem: The lastwo music group
Museke.com: Do you have any present engagements and works other than music?

Ayigbe Edem: Yep..i am in school.
Museke.com: What is one interesting thing about you that some of us fans don't know?

I think they don't know I am just like that funny brother they have @ home

Museke.com: What are your hobbies and pastimes?