KKD recounts early career challenges at GBC over rap and music mixing

Kwasi Kyei Darkwah, known as KKD, is the CEO of Class Media Group (CMG). He recently shared his early career experiences as a radio presenter at Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC).

In an interview on Abrabɔmu Nsem, KKD discussed facing disciplinary action for his innovative approach. He introduced modern DJ techniques and rap music to GBC's airwaves. This led to his suspension for mixing songs on air.

KKD explained that GBC had a traditional format. They required one song to finish before playing another. “I suffered a penalty because I was mixing songs on GBC radio,” he said.

He came from a disco background and wanted to bring that style to radio. However, it was not accepted at the time. His choice to play rap music also met resistance from management.

“When I got to GBC, nobody knew how to rhyme or rap,” he recalled. “I was a lone ranger.” Despite knowing how to mix and rap, he faced consequences for being different.

Now, KKD leads CMG, which operates nine FM stations and one TV channel in Ghana. He noted the irony of rap music's evolution in Ghana. What once faced criticism is now embraced by the youth.

“Today, see how the young ones are making a meal out of rap music,” he remarked. “What was once frowned upon is now a cultural movement.”