Samini reveals ‘Chaana’ was recorded four years ago as he prepares 8th album

Samini has opened up about the creative direction behind his recent releases, including the fan-favorite single Chaana.

He revealed that the song was recorded years ago as part of an experimental phase that is shaping his upcoming 8th studio album.

“I’ve been experimenting sounds. At this stage of my career, I want to break out of what Ghanaians know me for,” he said in an interview on Hitz FM monitored by MyNewsGh.

According to him, producer George Quaye first suggested that the track needed the Soweto Gospel Choir: “He said he could hear Soweto Gospel Choir on it. So we did all we could to make sure that happened.”

Samini added that the song is about four years old, created while he was still in school at GIMPA. “I was on a music break doing school, experimenting with sounds I wasn’t releasing.”

Explaining the multilingual approach, he said; “‘Chaana’ is Dagarti. It means ‘shine.’ The choir added their African elements. African rhythms connect naturally.”

Despite praise for the song’s quality, he dismissed concerns about its modest YouTube numbers. “Certain songs have their audience. Some are for the conservatives. My listeners come from different generations.”

He confirmed an album is coming; ‘Chaana’ is the first single off my eighth studio album. ‘Far Away’ is also from the same project.”

On whether he still makes music with hits in mind, Samini responded,“A bit of both. I come from the era where people appreciated lyrics. Even if I freestyle, I fix it. Punchlines must make sense.”