Pappy Kojo has just released his highly-anticipated debut album Logos II and with it, he takes us back to his beginnings. Born Jason Gaisie, he grew up in Takoradi, Ghana and then Verona, Italy with a strong affinity for music. Influenced by everyone from Obrafour to Michael Jackson, he cut his teeth by taking part in rap contests and posting songs on YouTube. These formative years, coupled with the support of his family, served as a springboard for his career. His infectious spirit and dexterous flow in his native Fante have facilitated his rise to fame.

“I grew up with the 1990s and early 2000s rap music, both hip life and hip hop, so lyricism is vital to me,” he says. “My songs explore life, from childhood to adulthood, and all its nostalgia.”

Pappy first made waves in 2015 with hits including ‘Realer No’, ‘Ay3 Late’ and ‘Awo’a’, followed by a year-long hiatus to find himself and grow. He came back with ‘M'akoma’, a smooth love ballad that was recognised at the 2017 MTN 4syte Music Video Awards. This was followed by the globally acclaimed hit ‘Akwaaba’ with GuiltyBeatz, Patapaa and Mr Eazi, which won Song of the Year at the 2018 AFRIMA awards.

He started this year right with ‘Balance’ featuring Joey B and Nshona Muzick. This first single off Logos II is a motivational song urging listeners to maintain a steady focus and keep on grinding. And now comes the full release showcasing his exploration of afrobeats to create his fresh, global sound. Pappy brings on board a wide range of talents including South Africa’s Busiswa in the remix ‘Thomas Pompoy3yaw’’ and the multi-generational power of Kofi Kinaata and Gyedu Blay Ambolley on ‘All Day All Night’. Other turns come from Sakordie, Phyno, Kinataa and Joey B.

“I made this album in honour of Takoradi, which is where I get most of my inspiration,” Pappy explains. “Logos II was the name of a ship that used to come to Takoradi when I was young. Everyone was excited to get on board because it had books, toys and all that other good stuff. So, the album is called Logos II because that is the kind of feeling I want my fans to experience as they listen to it. It covers love, heartbreak and has the theme of enjoying life and making the most of it. You learn how passionate I am about Takoradi and my desire to consistently give my fans the best of Pappy Kojo.”

So, it’s time to set sail on Logos II with its confident sound affirming Pappy Kojo’s ascent is unstoppable. This local boy is on his way to mega-stardom as he continues to share his experiences with all.

Logos II is out now. Discover it here.

Words and creative production Ekow Barnes
Photography Fiifi Abban
Styling and art direction Cornelius Owusu-Ansah
Production Rain Labs
Creative assistance Eyram Rafael

Fashion

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Chiip O Neal
Kwasi Paul
Kojo Kusi
Studio 189

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Published on 18/03/2021