- Gyakie challenges the idea that passion alone sustains success
- Emphasizes grit, self-reliance, and emotional resilience
- She says her fans play a powerful role in her motivation and creativity
In an industry where passion is often celebrated as the key to success, Ghanaian Afrobeat star Gyakie is challenging that narrative with refreshing honesty.
“My music career isn’t driven by passion—I’m hungry for it!” she declared during a candid interview on Luv FM’s DriveTime with Melvin Da Enigma.
The “Need Me” singer explained that while passion may spark ambition, it’s not always strong enough to carry a dream as big as hers.
“Passion can be fleeting—anything can throw you off. I’m not just passionate about music; I’m driven by hunger and determination.”
Her perspective may come as a surprise, but it’s rooted in her personal journey. Despite being the daughter of Highlife legend Nana Acheampong, Gyakie insists her path wasn’t handed to her.
“It might have looked easy, but I was really hustling,” she said in response to a remark about her work ethic. “Even with my father’s name, he made sure I did it on my own.”
This drive for independence, she explained, has shaped her as an artist determined to earn success on her own terms.
Gyakie also revealed that her upcoming album, “After Midnight,” is complete and deeply meaningful.
“It’s calm, reflective, and powerful,” she shared, adding that while love is a central theme, it goes beyond romance.
“I’m giving love because I love seeing people happy. I’ve experienced love’s beauty, and I want to share that.”
But the journey hasn’t been without emotional hurdles. She opened up about moments of self-doubt, particularly during the recording of a previous project.
“I felt like I hadn’t done enough. But when the song was released, my fans made me realize it was one of my best works,” she said. “There are days I want to give up, then I receive a message like, ‘I love your music,’ and that keeps me going.”
To Gyakie, the bond with her fans is sacred.
“I don’t joke with my fans. They can build you or break you.”
She also spoke about her conscious decision to occasionally retreat from social media.
“That’s where the demons are hovering now,” she said bluntly. “People live their entire lives online. If you want to give up on life, just stay on the internet. I regulate my life offline—that’s how I stay grounded.”
In a heartfelt message to the youth, Gyakie urged them to embrace their individuality.
“Baby girl, if you want to wear a skirt—wear it. If you want braids—do it. Don’t live to impress others, or you’ll lose yourself.”
Her closing advice?
“Let’s live like human beings—like there’s no Instagram, no Twitter, no Facebook. Life becomes simpler that way.”
With “Sankofa”—the lead single from After Midnight—already making waves, Gyakie isn’t just putting out music. She’s sharing pieces of her truth. And if hunger is her fuel, her fire is only getting stronger.
