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Ghanaian musician EL has sparked discussion about the origins and pioneers of the Azonto movement after placing Nshorna Music and himself among the leading figures who shaped and promoted the genre.
Speaking on the Audacity of the Art podcast, EL said he considers Nshorna Music the number one Azonto pioneer, with himself occupying the second position.
“It’ll be Nshorna Music number one, then me, and whoever else wants to follow can follow,” he stated.
The rapper and producer dismissed comparisons that place Sarkodie ahead of him in the Azonto conversation, maintaining that his contribution to the genre speaks for itself.
EL also called for better documentation of Ghana’s music history, especially regarding influential movements such as Azonto and Afro-dancehall, to ensure that the contributions of pioneers are preserved for future generations.
The Azonto movement, which emerged from coastal communities in Accra in the early 2010s, became one of Ghana’s biggest cultural exports, combining Ga Kpanlogo rhythms, hip-hop influences and energetic dance styles inspired by everyday life.
