S3fa's Harmonious Language Choice: How English Broadens Her Musical Horizons

[S3fa/Hype Off Life]

Written by Pharis Kinyua 

In the vibrant world of Ghanaian music, where rhythms and melodies flow like a river, Afropop and Afrobeats artist S3fa has made a name for herself. Her choice to compose her songs predominantly in English has stirred discussions among her fans and peers.

In an exclusive interview with Amansan Krakye on Property FM in Cape Coast, S3fa offered insights into why she employs English in her music, emphasizing its potential to reach a broader audience.

As the beat of her music pulsates through the airwaves, listeners often wonder why S3fa, like a handful of her Ghanaian contemporaries, has chosen to create her songs predominantly in English. The artist, known for her distinctive style and engaging lyrics, addressed this topic, providing context to her language choice.

"Using English in my songs helps me to reach a much wider audience because you know that not everybody speaks Twi," she explained during the interview, as MyNewsGh.com observed. Twi is one of Ghana's most widely spoken native languages and frequently used in music by artists in the country.

She is not the first artist to venture into predominantly English lyrics within the Ghanaian music scene, which often favors the use of native languages. She believes that English offers a universal appeal and a bridge to connect with listeners beyond the borders of Ghana. The decision to incorporate English into her music is not about neglecting her Ghanaian roots but about expanding her horizons.

"Even though I put a bit of our culture or our language into it, we also have to sell our songs outside of the country," S3fa expressed. She underscores the importance of sharing Ghana's rich culture with the world, allowing others to experience the beauty of her homeland through her music. By using English as a musical conduit, she can make her narratives and emotions more accessible to a diverse international audience.

Comparisons have often been drawn between Ghanaian and Nigerian music. Nigeria's music industry has achieved remarkable global success, in part because of the extensive use of English in song lyrics. S3fa discussed this aspect, stating, "Just like everyone is comparing us to the Nigerians because their songs, everybody is able to understand due to the use of English." The universal language allows Nigerian music to resonate with a wide range of audiences across the globe.

S3fa recognizes that language can be a powerful tool in shaping musical outreach and influence. By employing English, she believes she can bridge cultural gaps and take her music to new heights. The response from her audience corroborates her approach, as her English-infused songs have garnered positive attention.

The global music landscape is diverse, and artists like S3fa are unafraid to experiment with language to break the boundaries of culture and geography. Her decision to use English as a primary vehicle for her music is more than just a pragmatic choice—it's an artistic statement. It's a conscious effort to open up her songs to a broader demographic while preserving her Ghanaian roots through subtle cultural infusions.

In a Ghanaian music industry where native languages often take center stage, S3fa's English-language approach is a remarkable and innovative journey that demonstrates the power of music to transcend language barriers and connect with a broader audience. By harmonizing Ghanaian culture with universal accessibility, she not only enriches the local music scene but also enhances the global tapestry of sound. Her musical journey, paved with English lyrics, is a testament to the boundless reach of artistry and the power of language to unite the world through music.