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Ghanaian rap star Kwesi Arthur has set social media ablaze with a viral post (January 21, 2026) detailing his bitter fallout with former label Ground Up Chale and CEO Glen Boateng. The post, which has racked up thousands of likes, reposts, and the trending hashtag #FreeKwesiArthur, accuses the label of ongoing sabotage years after he went independent.
Key claims from Kwesi’s statement:
- No ties to Ground Up since his 2022 debut album Son of Jacob.
- Demanded US$150,000 to use his own images for an upcoming independent project.
- Label claims ownership of his image, music catalog, and brand from 2016 onward.
- Allegations of blocked releases, no earnings from his work, manipulation, and threats.
- A chilling warning: “If anything happens to me, Glen Boateng and the Ground Up team should be held responsible.”
The post included dramatic photos of Kwesi, amplifying the urgency and resonating with fans who remember his rise from the streets under Ground Up’s early promotions (hits like “Grind Day,” collaborations, and the “ground up to the top” vibe).
Why It’s Trending: The Long-Standing Beef
Kwesi helped put Ground Up Chale on the map as a breakout star, generating massive revenue and visibility for the label. Fans point out the irony old Ground Up posts celebrated him, but now tensions boil over similar issues faced by ex-artists like Twitch and others.
Supporters are rallying with #FreeKwesiArthur, arguing he’s paid his dues and deserves full control. Others debate contract fairness, with some defending labels for early investments. Fellow artists (including subtle nods from Medikal) and industry voices highlight broader problems in Ghana’s music scene: exploitative deals, image rights, and barriers to independence.
How Can Kwesi Arthur Gain His Freedom? Practical Paths Forward
While details of Kwesi’s original contract remain private, his situation mirrors many global artist-label disputes (think Wizkid’s EME exit or Frank Ocean’s Def Jam maneuvers). Here are realistic steps he could take to break free, based on common music industry resolutions:
1. Legal Review & Challenge the Contract:
Hire top entertainment lawyers (in Ghana and possibly internationally) to scrutinize the agreement for loopholes—e.g., expiration clauses, unfair terms, duress (he was young when signing), or breaches by the label. If the contract is deemed exploitative or perpetual without clear end, courts could void parts or the whole deal. MUSIGA(Musicians Union of Ghana) or the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture could mediate or advocate for artist protections.
2. Negotiate a Buyout or Settlement:
Pay a negotiated sum (potentially less than $150K) for full rights release including masters, image usage, and catalog control. Many artists settle to avoid lengthy court battles. Public pressure via #FreeKwesiArthur could push Ground Up toward compromise to protect their reputation.
3. Release New Music Strategically:
Drop independent projects under a new entity (Kwesi has hinted at his own company). Use fresh branding/images not tied to old Ground Up assets. Build leverage through fan support, streams, and collabs to force renegotiation—labels often relent when an artist proves they can thrive without them.
4. Public Advocacy & Industry Support:
Rally more artists, influencers, and unions for transparency in contracts. High-profile backing could shame Ground Up into releasing him or spark broader reforms in Ghana’s industry (e.g., better royalty tracking, standard 360-deal limits).
Rally more artists, influencers, and unions for transparency in contracts. High-profile backing could shame Ground Up into releasing him or spark broader reforms in Ghana’s industry (e.g., better royalty tracking, standard 360-deal limits).
5. Long-Term: Rebuild Independently
Focus on new music, tours, merch, and digital platforms. Once free (or partially), reclaim value from old hits via re-recordings or licensing deals (like Taylor Swift’s approach).
No official response from Ground Up yet, but this could escalate to court or public mediation. Fans hope it ends with Kwesi fully independent proving “ground up” talent can rise without chains.
CHECK THIS: Kwesi Arthur Drops Redemption Valley: The GOAT’s Triumphant Return on January 17, 2026
source: kaknews.com
