Ghana-based singer Y'akoto has captivated audiences with her rich, vibrant music that seamlessly combines elements of Afrobeats, West African pop, and contemporary R&B. With her honeyed and all-encompassing voice, Y'akoto stands as a testament to the legacy of powerful vocalists like Sade and SZA. Her artistry delves into the intersection of spirituality and sensuality, creating a truly unique musical experience. In her latest creation, "Secret," released on April 26, Y'akoto unveils a captivating collaboration that showcases her musical journey, her deep connection to her Ghanaian heritage, and her commitment to celebrating diversity.
"Secret" features production from Grammy-nominated Nabeyin from San Bernardino, California, but of Ghanaian origins. The music producer is known for his work on Kanye West's "Heaven and Hell," "OK" by M.anifest, and "Nothings Into Somethings" by Drake. It also has a guest verse from Ghanaian rapper Jay Bahd of Asakaa Boys fame.
Y'akoto's path to creating "Secret" involved an extraordinary series of musical encounters. Nabeyin, the song's producer, heard Y'akoto's sound on an Apple Music playlist featuring female Ghanaian artists. Impressed by her talent, Nabeyin DM'ed to Y'akoto on Instagram, kickstarting a serendipitous connection. The two artists quickly realized they shared a similar musical vibe and passion for authentic talent. This shared vision and chemistry laid the foundation for their fruitful collaboration.
While Nabeyin planned to link up with Y'akoto upon his arrival in Ghana, she decided to travel to Los Angeles instead. Y'akoto's unwavering dedication to her craft led her to seek uninterrupted studio time, allowing her to immerse herself in the creative process. Determined to make the most of her time with Nabeyin, she sacrificed convenience and flew to Los Angeles. This bold move proved instrumental in their musical journey, as Y'akoto recorded many songs with Nabeyin, which were meticulously mixed and mastered in LA.
On her collaboration with Jay Bahd, Y'akoto revealed she was in the studio in LA when she reached out to the Ghanaian rapper for a feature. A fan of his voice and authenticity, she aimed to bring a contrasting element to "Secret," seeking a collaboration that would complement her voice. She recalled sending Jay Bahd the song, to which the rapper swiftly returned with his verse, and their synergy ignited. The collaboration added a dynamic dimension to "Secret" and emphasized Y'akoto's keen artistic instincts and willingness to experiment with creative contrasts.
Y'akoto's musical universe is a rich tapestry of cultural influences and personal experiences. Born Jennifer Yaa Akoto Kieck in Hamburg, Germany, to a political scientist mother and a renowned Highlife musician father, she embodies the duality of analytical and ineffable in her music. Her chosen moniker, which honours her Ghanaian roots and the remarkable women in her family, demonstrates the significance of Y'akoto's heritage and family history.
Her musical journey has been shaped by her status as an eternal misfit, navigating a mixed-race identity growing up in Ghana and later as a Black child in Germany. The xenophobia she encountered fueled her artistic passion and motivated her to embrace music as self-expression. Y'akoto found solace and acceptance in music, which celebrates differences and lends its ears to individual voices. Her experiences as an outsider inspired her to become a musician, providing a platform to share her stories and empower others who resonate with her journey.
Y'akoto's musical evolution continues to push boundaries and explore new territories. Her artistic journey exemplifies her ability to fuse her musical DNA, cultural heritage, and learned experiences into a distinctive and empowering sound. As she steps confidently into new musical realms, her dedication to authenticity and celebration of diversity pave the way for a remarkable new chapter in her life and career.
In conclusion, Y'akoto's "Secret" not only represents a musical collaboration but also serves as a testament to her artistic growth, her connection to her Ghanaian roots, and her commitment to breaking boundaries in the world of music. With her captivating voice and visionary approach, Y'akoto continues to forge her path in the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music.
Listen to "Secret" on your favourite streaming platform.
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