Award-winning Ghanaian rapper Kwesi Arthur has broken his silence with a powerful and emotionally charged public statement accusing his former management team at Ground Up Chale, including founder Glen Boateng, of harassment, manipulation, and financial exploitation.
The internationally acclaimed hip-hop artiste alleges that he is being wrongly asked to pay $150,000 for using his own image in a current music project and claims Ground Up asserts ownership over him, his music, and his likeness dating back to 2016, despite him stating that he has had no affiliation with the company since the release of Son of Jacob.
“Ground up claims to own me, my image, my music and everything attached to it from 2016 to this day,” Kwesi Arthur stated.
The rapper further alleged that he earned no income from his music throughout the years he worked with the label, accusing Glen Boateng of ongoing threats and manipulation. “I have not made a dime from any of my music within the period I worked with them for years now,” he said.
In one of the most alarming part of the public statement, Kwesi Arthur raised concerns about his personal safety, stating that Glen Boateng and members of Ground Up Chale should be held responsible if anything happens to him.
“If anything happens to me, Glen Boateng and all team members of Ground Up Chale are responsible and should be held responsible. He is working constantly around the clock for me to never put out music again.” the Rapper stated.
Kwesi Arthur explained that he had remained silent to avoid public conflict but said the situation has severely affected his mental health and wellbeing, prompting him to speak out for his safety and that of his family.
Background
Kwesi Arthur, born Emmanuel Kwesi Danso Arthur Jr., rose to prominence in 2017 with his breakout single Grind Day. He became one of Ghana’s most influential hip-hop voices, winning multiple awards and earning international recognition. His debut album, Son of Jacob, cemented his status as a leading figure in African hip-hop.
In recent years, the rapper stepped back from the mainstream spotlight, sparking speculation that he had exited the music scene. However, Kwesi Arthur later clarified that he had not quit music but was navigating challenges associated with going independent after leaving Ground Up Chale. He has since launched his own imprint and continues to work on releasing music independently.
