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Ghanaian music debates have officially entered their favourite territory: comparing two artists who never asked to be compared in the first place.
This time, rapper and musician Lalid found himself at the centre of an online debate after social media influencer Ama Burland released a video ranking Ghanaian artistes into three categories: the “GOATs,” the “Legends,” and the “Ones to Watch.”
Both Kwesi Arthur and Lalid landed in the “Watch” category.
And, as expected, the internet immediately picked up its digital boxing gloves.
Some fans were unhappy with the idea of placing the two artistes in the same category, arguing that Kwesi Arthur’s career achievements and international recognition set him apart.
One social media user went a step further and directly challenged Lalid on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“Lol, don’t think you’re on the same level as Kwesi Arthur, a BET nominee?” the user wrote.
Lalid clearly did not intend to scroll past that one.
The “Matter” hitmaker fired back, arguing that fans could defend their favourite artistes without attempting to diminish everyone else on the list.
“You could defend someone without downplaying the others on the list. You know you’re very foolish, my brother, to think I was disrespecting,” Lalid responded.
And just like that, another peaceful day on Ghanaian Twitter went straight into the music-industry courtroom.
To be fair, comparisons between artistes are nothing new. Once a ranking or tier list appears online, fans suddenly become talent scouts, historians, statisticians and Grammy committee members all at once.
But Lalid’s response highlights an important point about music debates. Supporting an artiste does not necessarily require tearing another artiste down.
Kwesi Arthur’s achievements can be discussed on their own merit, just as Lalid’s career and musical journey can be assessed independently.
The original debate may have been about a simple tier list, but the reaction shows once again how quickly Ghana’s music conversations can turn competitive when fan loyalty enters the chat.
And judging by Lalid’s response, he is perfectly comfortable defending his name when the comparisons start getting personal.
