Rapper V12 recounts how failure to impress his crush with Obour's lyrics birthed his talent

Every success story has a driving narrative. This is true for V12 Originator, a Ghanaian rapper in the US. He discovered his talent after failing to impress a crush with borrowed lyrics.

V12 Originator's real name is Swaletz Oppong Kontoh Boampong. He is 29 years old and uses music to express what many fear to say. His lyrics reflect raw life experiences, aiming to make listeners feel every word.

In 2007, he memorized songs by Hiplife legend Obour and Highlife legend AB Crentsil. One day, he wanted to impress a girl at Dormaa Senior High School. She often visited his father, who was a teacher there.

He rapped a song for her confidently, but she dismissed it. She said she had heard it too many times before. This rejection inspired him to write his first rap.

When he performed his original rap for her, she was convinced. That moment made him realize he could influence people with his voice.

V12 Originator has many talents. Besides being a rapper and storyteller, he works as a service engineer. He balances technical skills with creativity in music.

He plans to release his debut single titled "Tonga." The song was recorded at Hustle Hard Studio in Tema. It will be released in May and aims to top charts and win awards.