‘Ownership Wars’ That Killed Azonto Music – E.L
February 26, 2026Veteran Ghanaian rapper, producer, and Azonto pioneer EL (Elom Adabla) has reignited discussions on the genre’s decline, boldly stating that claims of ownership by various artists ultimately “killed the sound.”
In an exclusive interview on Metro TV’s Entertainment Review hosted by Nana Yaa on Monday, February 23, 2026, EL reflected on the early 2010s explosion of Azonto—a dance-heavy, upbeat genre that put Ghana on the global map through hits like “U Go Kill Me” (his collaboration with Sarkodie) and contributions from acts like Gasmilla, Stay Jay, and others.
EL argued that the competitive rush for individuals to stake personal claims as the “owner” or “king” of Azonto created unnecessary drama and restrictions. This, he said, stifled innovation, experimentation, and the natural evolution that could have kept the sound fresh and relevant.
“The ownership of the Azonto genre killed the sound,” EL declared. He emphasized that when too many people fight over who “owns” a cultural movement, it prevents artists from freely pushing boundaries, collaborating openly, or taking risks—ultimately limiting the genre’s longevity and global staying power.
The comments highlight ongoing challenges in Ghana’s music scene, where viral sounds and cultural exports like Azonto, Hiplife, and now Amapiano-influenced trends can become “politicized” through ego clashes, branding battles, or commercialization pressures, sometimes sacrificing artistic growth.
‘Ownership Wars’ That Killed Azonto Music – E.L
EL’s statement comes at a time when conversations about reviving or reimagining Azonto are resurfacing, with calls for a more collaborative, inclusive approach to let the sound breathe and adapt.
Fans and industry observers have taken to social media to weigh in—some agreeing that territorial disputes hurt the movement, while others defend the pride in claiming roots. EL, a multiple award-winner known for his forward-thinking production and influence on Afrobeats, continues to advocate for creativity over control.
