Stonebwoy’s global influence as one of Ghana’s most celebrated music stars stems from his unique sound, a fusion of Afrobeat, Dancehall, Reggae, Highlife, Amapiano, and R&B. His sixth studio album, UP & RUNNIN6, captures this blend, featuring collaborations with artists like Spice, Wyclef Jean, and Duncan Mighty. Known for his ability to fuse genres, Stonebwoy’s music represents a bridge between African and Caribbean sounds, reflecting his commitment to bridging cultures.

With a record-breaking 20 awards in 2024 alone, the 36-year-old’s reputation as a musical trailblazer continues to grow as he brings diverse sounds to audiences worldwide without losing touch with their origins. This project signals the beginning of a new chapter in that mission. “The inspiration behind UP & RUNNIN6 is literally, like, in its name. You know? It’s up and running,” he tells BET. Unlike his last album, 5th Dimension, which leaned toward modern, futuristic sounds, UP & RUNNIN6 taps into “authentic original sounds.” With nostalgic rhythms and beats, he’s crafted a record that merges the old and new, blending these with current Afrobeat and dancehall influences. “I went for songs that remind us of dancehall ‘dancehall’…authentic, original sounds,” he explains.

Meanwhile, as the Afrobeat genre gains global traction, it has sparked discussion among music pioneers. In a recent interview on “Drink Champs,” reggae legend Buju Banton voiced his disappointment in Afrobeats, expressing that the genre doesn’t fully acknowledge its debt to reggae and dancehall. Banton remarked, “They don’t give f**king props back to Dancehall and Reggae,” and questioned the genre’s impact, asking, “Tell me one Afrobeats song that can uplift us… Kenya is suffering, young men of Kenya are revolting. South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan, you name it. But which of these Afrobeats songs can I relate to for a peace of mind?”

Stonebwoy, who often infuses Jamaican influences into his work, responds respectfully to Banton’s views. “I see it as a privilege to have had discussions with such a godfather in the game,” he says. Stonebwoy acknowledged Banton’s perspective, explaining that reggae’s legacy has often been one of African liberation. “I could never feel guilty because my whole career has been about connecting Africans and Caribbeans… We have every right to represent for who we are, however we want, wherever our inspiration comes from,” he adds.

With UP & RUNNIN6, Stonebwoy channels this connection into tracks that he hopes will bring listeners the “sweetness and niceness” of a sound rooted in authenticity. “If you’ve been a fan of music, Afrobeats, reggae, and dancehall, you would really love this one,” he says. Stonebwoy’s goal is to leave fans inspired and energized as he continues to push boundaries. “When you go to the gym, you can jam to that like, you know? When you’re working. It’s for daily use. The music is a medicine for your daily use,” he adds. His audience can also look forward to experiencing these sounds live, as he plans to kick off a U.S. tour early next year, with stops in Europe and the UK by March.

Beyond music, Stonebwoy has embarked on a journey of academic growth. In 2021, inspired by his admiration for Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, he returned to school, enrolling at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). Reflecting on the experience of earning his bachelor’s degree in public administration, he shares, “If anything ever trained my mental capacity on the next level, it’s going back to school for three years to get that degree.” Now pursuing a master’s degree in international relations and diplomacy, he’s set to graduate in July, demonstrating that his commitment to growth reaches beyond the studio.