Ghanaian rapper Kwesi Slay has re-emerged on the music scene with fresh energy, refined creativity, and a deeper sense of artistic purpose, following a long break from the spotlight.
Born Bernard Kwesi Appiah and hailing from Ashaiman, Slay marks his return with the release of a new six-track EP titled Aben — a name which translates to “it is near,” signaling the rapper’s belief that his next wave of success is within reach.
This is his first major release since 2021’s “Eye Clear” featuring Kofi Mole, which enjoyed strong traction on streaming platforms. Prior to that, fans embraced earlier hits like “Street Ways” and “Wedi Bet”, and celebrated his notable collaborations with Medikal, Kwesi Arthur, Kuami Eugene, and more.
On Aben, Kwesi Slay revisits his roots while pushing his sound into new territory. The EP features dynamic collaborations with artists like Ko-Jo Cue, Cabum, Kemenya, and Wanlov the Kubolor, with production credits from Lyrical Beatz, Kemenya TV, and Slay himself.
He first rose to prominence with raw, street-centered anthems such as “3y3 Normal” featuring Yaa Pono and his viral breakout “Seven” featuring Kwesi Arthur — records that made him a voice of the youth and a force in Ghanaian hip-hop.
After more than two years of silence, which left fans wondering about his future, Kwesi Slay has made it clear: the pause was purposeful.
“I needed to disconnect in order to realign. It was a period of recalibration and creative rebirth,” he explained. “Sometimes silence is the loudest form of preparation. I’ve lived, I’ve grown — and now I’m ready to speak again, louder than ever.”
Dubbed “Slay Season” by fans, his return promises music that blends deep introspection with the gritty realism that defines his style — a sonic evolution rooted in growth and self-awareness.
Slay emphasized that his comeback isn’t about chasing fame, but about staying authentic and inspiring others.
“This is not about reclaiming fame. It’s about representing a truth — mine, and that of every dreamer who’s ever needed to pause to gather strength.”
His management has confirmed that more collaborations, including some with international acts, are in the pipeline, along with plans for a headline tour and a larger project set to drop later this year.
With polished production, elevated lyricism, and emotional depth, Kwesi Slay’s return is already being hailed as a key moment in the evolution of Ghanaian hip-hop — bridging street grit with future vision.
