Hiplife is in a coma

Reggie Rockstone says hiplife the genre he pioneered, has lost its identity and is currently struggling for relevance. Speaking on Starr FM monitored by MyNewsGh, he argued that the main problem is the abandonment of the genre’s foundational name.

“My issue has to do with us abandoning the name,” he said, explaining that although new styles will naturally evolve, the core identity should not have been discarded.

When asked whether hiplife is dead, he responded firmly, “It’s in a coma… but she’s waking up.”

Rockstone traced the origins of hiplife to his Pan-African convictions and his decision to merge hip-hop energy with local language. “

If I have to address my people, I have to address them in the language of my people,” he said, recounting why he chose to rap in Twi despite his background in the UK and New York.

He also clarified that his personal journey into the genre was supported by strong backing at home. “For me, it was a walk in the park… I had backing,” he said, crediting his father Ricky for financing studio sessions, believing in the vision, and championing his work.

Rockstone emphasized that hiplife became a cultural movement because it reflected youth identity and Ghanaian pride at a pivotal time. But to preserve it, he believes there must be deliberate recognition and revival efforts.