Award-winning Ghanaian rapper Michael Owusu Addo, popularly known as Sarkodie, has secured royal endorsement from Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, ahead of the 2025 edition of his annual Rapperholic concert, which is set to be held in Kumasi for the first time in its 12-year history.
Sarkodie, accompanied by his management team, paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene at the Manhyia Palace on Thursday, July 18, 2025, to officially inform the King of the decision to relocate the iconic music event from its traditional home in Accra to the Ashanti regional capital.
A cultural milestone for rapperholic
The visit marked a significant cultural milestone for Rapperholic, which has grown into one of the most anticipated events on Ghana’s entertainment calendar since its inception in 2012.
Sarkodie’s choice of Kumasi represents a conscious effort to bring his music and brand closer to fans across the country, particularly in a region that has long shown him unwavering support.
In response, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II not only welcomed the decision but also announced his intention to personally attend this year’s concert, commending Sarkodie for his humility, consistency, and contribution to Ghana’s creative arts industry.
“It will not be wrong if I attend myself this year,” Otumfuo said, adding, “You have remained humble and focused, and that is why you continue to rise. Keep it up.”
Rapperholic: From Accra roots to national phenomenon
Rapperholic was first held on December 24, 2012, following the release of Sarkodie’s Rapperholic album earlier that year.
What began as a concert to celebrate his growing discography quickly transformed into a national event, featuring top-tier Ghanaian and international artists and celebrating Ghanaian hip-hop culture.
Over the years, the event has hosted music heavyweights including Becca, Efya, Obrafour, Kidi, Kwesi Arthur, Strongman, Korede Bello, and Nigeria’s Big Shaq.
It has consistently drawn massive audiences, though it has also faced its fair share of logistical challenges, most notably the overcrowding at the 2018 edition, which drew public criticism.
The 2019 edition, dubbed Rapperholic Unstoppable ’19, took place at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC), where Sarkodie paid emotional tribute to his late lawyer and mentor Cynthia Quarcoo during a powerful performance.
Sarkodie’s vision for the future
Sarkodie’s ambition for Rapperholic has always extended beyond the stage.
In 2022, to commemorate the event’s tenth anniversary, he curated a week-long exhibition at the Mix Design Hub in Osu.
The event chronicled his journey from underground rapper to global icon and featured fireside chats, podcast sessions, and a student tour.
High-profile guests, including Dr. Osei Kwame Despite, actress Nadia Buari, and highlife legend Amakye Dede, graced the event.
The Kumasi edition of Rapperholic, scheduled for later this year, is expected to capture the same cultural energy, this time infused with the traditions and support of the Ashanti Kingdom. The move is already being hailed as a bold attempt to decentralise Ghana’s entertainment scene, long dominated by Accra.
A homecoming for the Fans
For many fans in Kumasi and surrounding regions, this year’s edition of Rapperholic feels like a long-awaited homecoming. Sarkodie, though born in Tema, has strong ties to the Ashanti Region, and his decision to bring the concert to the Manhyia heartland is viewed as a gesture of gratitude.
“This is more than just a performance—it’s about embracing our heritage and sharing our story with those who have supported me from day one,” Sarkodie noted after the visit.
With the blessings of Otumfuo and the enthusiastic support of fans in Kumasi and beyond, the 2025 Rapperholic concert is shaping up to be a landmark moment in Ghana’s music history—where artistry, culture, and tradition converge on one grand stage.
