Ghana’s dancehall heavyweight Shatta Wale is generating buzz after news broke that his 2025 single “Street Crown” has received official approval from the Grammy Academy for consideration in the Best African Music Performance category. This development is more than just a personal milestone; it serves as a vital opportunity for African music to shine on a global stage.
On October 1, Shatta Wale took to social media to share the exciting news, emphasizing the broader implications for Ghana and the African music industry. His call to action resonated with fans, encouraging them to support homegrown talent, rather than letting this golden opportunity slip through the cracks.
“This moment is not just about me; it’s about Ghana, Africa, and every fan of African Dancehall,” he stated. This statement revealed his commitment to elevating not just his career, but shining a spotlight on African art and culture.
Yet, the excitement did not overshadow a pressing concern. Shatta Wale’s subsequent messages highlighted what he sees as a cultural shortcoming: the local support for Ghanaian artists. He referenced past occurrences of undervaluing significant collaborations, specifically mentioning his 2020 feature with Beyoncé on the track “Already.” Despite its international acclaim, the collaboration faced backlash and skepticism back home, which Shatta Wale found disheartening.
“You undervalued Beyoncé’s feature, and you can see how Kartel is promoting the brand,” he remarked, urging his audience to recognize the potential benefits that unity and collective support can yield. His frustration is rooted in a desire for a united front when it comes to promoting Ghanaian music on the world stage.
The Beyoncé collaboration, part of “The Lion King: The Gift” album, garnered millions of views globally. However, back in Ghana, the reception was divided, with some questioning the partnership. Shatta Wale has been candid about his disappointment regarding the lack of enthusiasm that collaboration garnered, perceiving it as a missed chance for Ghana music to gain sustained visibility internationally.
With “Street Crown” now in the running for Grammy consideration, Shatta Wale appears determined to ensure that history doesn’t repeat itself. The submission process initiated on October 3, 2025, placing him in direct competition with other African music juggernauts, all vying for the coveted Grammy nod.
The single itself exemplifies Shatta Wale’s dedication to his craft, fusing authentic dancehall rhythms with Afrocentric production, thus showcasing the dynamic sound that has pushed Ghana’s dancehall scene into the mainstream African music narrative.
This Grammy bid comes at a significant time, as African music categories are increasingly being recognized at major international award shows, signaling the continent’s growing influence in global pop culture. Shatta Wale’s fervent appeal for unity resonates as we witness a pivotal moment in the music industry.
“It’s a lovely world, my brother, my sister,” he concluded his passionate call to action. “It’s 1 Africa, 1 Ghana.” His message resounds with the importance of collective effort in elevating Ghanaian artists globally.
As the Grammy Academy deliberates on the nominations, the fate of “Street Crown” remains uncertain; consideration does not guarantee a nomination. However, Shatta Wale’s push for unity and national support highlights a crucial turning point: will Ghanaians rally behind their artists this time as international opportunities arise?