Sarkodie Sets Record Straight in Bold Black Serif Cover, Fires Back at Critics and Industry Doubters

Ghanaian rap icon Sarkodie has once again proven why he remains a towering figure in African music, using the platform of his latest Black Serif magazine cover to address critics, silence doubters, and reaffirm his dominance in the industry. The bold, unapologetic feature, released on April 10, 2025, showcases Sarkodie in his element—sharp, introspective, and fearless—while delivering a masterclass in resilience and authenticity.

The Black Serif cover, a sleek monochrome masterpiece, captures Sarkodie in a tailored suit, his piercing gaze cutting through the lens. The imagery alone speaks volumes, but it’s his candid interview that has the industry buzzing. Known for his lyrical prowess and business acumen, Sarkodie didn’t hold back, addressing long-standing narratives that have trailed his career, from accusations of staying too local to claims he’s lost his edge in the global Afrobeats wave.

“I’ve been hearing the noise for years—‘Sarkodie’s too this, too that.’ Let me make it clear: I don’t chase trends, I set them,” he declared in the feature. The rapper, whose real name is Michael Owusu Addo, used the platform to dismantle criticism that he’s failed to evolve. Citing his discography—spanning albums like Mary (2015) to No Pressure (2021)—he pointed to his ability to blend highlife, hip-hop, and Afrobeats while staying true to his Ghanaian roots. “The same people who say I’m stuck in my ways stream my music when they need something real,” he quipped.

Sarkodie also fired back at industry doubters who’ve questioned his relevance in an era dominated by younger Afrobeats stars. “Relevance isn’t about being the loudest on social media,” he said. “It’s about impact. Check the numbers, check the tours, check the legacy.” His recent sold-out shows in London and New York, coupled with over 2 billion streams across platforms, back his claim. The rapper’s SarkCess Music label continues to nurture new talent, further cementing his influence beyond the mic.

The Black Serif feature also touched on personal growth. Sarkodie, now 39, reflected on balancing fame with family life, crediting his wife, Tracy, and their two children for keeping him grounded. “They remind me why I do this. Not for the noise, but for the love,” he shared. Yet, he didn’t shy away from addressing betrayals in the industry, hinting at unnamed peers who’ve tried to undermine him. “I see the moves, I hear the whispers. But I’m built for this,” he said, a line that’s already sparking debates on social media.

Fans have flooded platforms like X with reactions, praising Sarkodie’s clapback as both calculated and inspiring. “Sark just reminded everyone he’s untouchable. That Black Serif cover is a statement,” one user posted. Others speculate the interview could reignite old feuds, particularly with Nigerian artists who’ve subtly shaded him in the past.

Beyond the headlines, the Black Serif cover underscores Sarkodie’s refusal to be boxed in. From collaborating with global stars like Wale and Vic Mensa to championing Ghanaian culture worldwide, he’s carved a lane that’s uniquely his. As he prepares for his next album, teased in the feature as “a game-changer,” the rap king shows no signs of slowing down.

Sarkodie’s Black Serif moment isn’t just a response to critics—it’s a declaration of permanence. In an industry quick to crown new kings, he’s reminding everyone he never left the throne.