Ghanaian Nana Kofi making links in Jamaica

As he seeks to market himself to a wider audience, Ghana-born entertainer, Nana Kofi, is on a promotional journey on his maiden trip to Jamaica.

Having landed on 'the Rock' on Tuesday, the up-and-coming act said he was pleasantly surprised to find out Jamaicans have as much love for Afrobeats as they do for reggae and dancehall. Nana Kofi plans to use that to his advantage as he has his sights set on winning over the Jamaican people.

"I found out that Afrobeats is a big thing out here and I really just had to come see for myself. The first day I landed in Jamaica, I actually went into a store and the lady that was in there was actually listening to Afrobeats, and she told me that she doesn't really know what was being said but it's the vibe that she connects to, and she said that's what makes it so special to the Jamaican people," he said. "It was really nice to see and experience that and it really drove me to want to promote my music all the more here. I know Jamaica is gonna love what I'm bringing."

The entertainer said he's in Jamaica to shoot three music videos, and is also hoping to use the opportunity to connect with locals. The main video is for his single Sika.

"I'm really just trying to touch base with the Jamaican people, the Jamaican culture, link up with some local producers/artistes if we can and really just get involved in Jamaica all round. I'm also promoting my single Rubba which is out on all platforms, and I want to get it rotating on the local airwaves. I want Jamaica to get to know Nana Kofi," he said.

Admitting that he grew up on Jamaican music, Nana Kofi lists Popcaan, Vybz Kartel, Mavado and Skillibeng as entertainers who have inspired and influenced his sound. He said he believes his authenticity will win over what he knows is a tough Jamaican listenership.

"Africans in general are hard to please but I feel like with me being me, just authentic, that's how I'm going to break into the Jamaican community," he said. "I think Jamaicans will take to my music because the African sound and the Jamaican sound have a linkage. The type of music we listen to and the type of music you listen to, I think it's kinda the same so I think Jamaicans will definitely like my music."

"Since I've been here, I been enjoying the jams (street dances). It's really good just seeing the people vibe out here. So far Jamaica is treating me well so I have hopes it will continue," he added.