Many musicians end their careers after their one-hit-wonder, failing to maintain their momentum. But Paapa Versa proves that he is here to stay, as the multi-talented artist is currently working on his third album, Versa Villa, to be released this year. Paapa Versa is on a roll, and he is ready to take on greater heights. Besides his upcoming, highly-anticipated album, the artist has also launched his podcast called A Sound Conversation featuring thoughtful conversations with insightful guests about life, music, and the business of pursuing both.
Paapa Versa is a Ghanaian singer-songwriter, rapper, producer, and podcaster, creating masterpieces that inspire many young contemporary and alternative artists in his home country. The artist is revolutionizing how music lovers know alternative music by fusing traditional African rhythms with his contemporary instruments and hints of Afropop. His songs have proven that Paapa Versa is truly one of the most creative and unique artists of his time.
Among the many milestones he has achieved, Paapa Versa highlighted three of his proudest accomplishments. He was nominated for awards across Africa, namely Best Alternative song at the 3 Music Awards 2021, Alternative Song of the Year at Ghana Music Awards, UK 2021, and Discovery of the Year during the Africa Gospel Music Awards 2013.
Although Paapa Versa is achieving momentous milestones in his career, that is not to say that he did not encounter his fair share of struggles. He grew up with a terrible stutter, but music became his primary mode of expression, an instrument that allowed him to communicate who he was with those around him. By consistently pursuing his music and also joining theater productions in high school, the artist eventually enriched his fluency and gained more control of his speech.
“Growing up with a stutter, I thought I was inadequate for words. I found refuge in music when I was four, and I’ve lived there since. My stutter never left, and music didn’t either. Now a little older, I’ve realized words, on their own, are inadequate for me. I pour my heart out in songs,” Paapa Versa said.
Besides his own passion for music, Paapa Versa was blessed to belong to a family that loved music. His parents both have musical backgrounds and encouraged him to learn musical instruments. First, he played the piano, and by age 12, he took on the guitar, and his journey went on. At 17, the artist performed at bigger stages and fiercely launched himself in the Ghanaian music scene when he joined Skillions New Generation, a hip-hop collective formed by legendary Ghanaian producer Jayso, along with Lil Shaker, Joey B, Rumour, Kevin Beats, Killmatic, and many more. Paapa Versa took part in the release of Skillions – New Generation Mixtape, where he launched his self-produced single “Life Is Short,” which gained a high regard for its sharp lyricism and Avant-garde production.
Asked who he takes inspiration from aside from his family, Paapa Versa shared that he has been awestruck by the artistry of Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Agya Koo Nimo, Osibisa, Asa, Kirk Franklin, PJ Morton, Jon Bellion, and Lecrae.
Soon after, Paapa Versa released his second self-produced album called Songs for Kukua, where its lead single, “Write for Me,” received acclaim from listeners worldwide and was played on various radio stations and TV channels.
Now on his third album, Paapa Versa is amplifying a powerful statement of his passion, talent, and dedication to music. Without a doubt, the artist will continue reaping the fruits of his labor not only in the African music scene but across the globe.
