I started singing at age 12 - ACP Kofi Sarpong

Ghanaian gospel musician and police officer, ACP Kofi Sarpong, shared his music journey. He began singing at age 12 in his church choir.

On The Career Trail program on Joy Learning TV, he recalled being a good alto singer. His musical talent was clear from a young age. However, he only pursued music professionally much later.

After returning from a peacekeeping mission in Sudan, a matron invited him to her church. They were hosting a harvest event when she called him to sing.

“I was already in church,” he said. “But I went and sang.” After his performance, a young man approached him with an offer to record.

ACP Sarpong declined the offer. At that time, he was a Deputy Superintendent of Police and not interested in music professionally.

The young man persisted and sent an elderly man to plead for him. ACP Sarpong still turned down the proposal.

“I told the elderly man it wasn’t possible,” he explained. “I am a commissioned police officer.”

During the young man's second visit, ACP Sarpong urged him to help others seeking producers instead of him. The young man insisted that he saw potential in ACP Sarpong.

Following their conversation, ACP Kofi Sarpong decided to seek permission from the Ghana Police Service. He drafted a letter to the then-Inspector General of Police (IGP).

To his surprise, the IGP approved his request to pursue music. “The IGP minuted my letter,” he said.

He received confirmation within 30 minutes after submitting it. Excitedly, he informed the young man about the approval.

That evening, the young man visited with an organ and renowned musician Akwaboah Jnr. They were ready to record their first song together.

The song "Ayeyi Ndwom," written by Akwaboah Jnr., marked the beginning of their collaboration. This led to an album featuring four songs, including one by OJ.

“The album included ‘First Love,’ which people loved,” he shared. The release generated excitement as many learned about his dual career as a police officer.

Former Deputy Minister for Tourism Hon. Okraku Mantey helped promote his work further after discovering who was behind the songs.

ACP Kofi Sarpong expressed gratitude towards those who supported him along the way. He acknowledged that without them and his colleagues' support, pursuing music might not have been possible.

“All these guys led me to the studio,” he noted proudly. He has since released three albums and three singles.

Looking ahead, ACP Kofi Sarpong is excited about new projects in his music career.

“We’ve worked on six new songs and plan a massive concert,” he announced eagerly.

His journey from chorister to celebrated gospel artist shows how following one's passion can lead to success.