Fuse ODG

British-Ghanaian rapper Fuse ODG, born Nana Richard Abiona, established himself in London's rap circles after spending his formative years in the U.K. capital. As both a skilled producer and performer, he launched a mobile studio project aimed at guiding local youth toward their own musical goals. Alongside these efforts, he co-created the TINA movement, also known as This Is New Africa, which urged people across the continent to harness their talents for community rebuilding while embracing their cultural roots. During a 2011 visit to Ghana he connected with producer Killbeatz and rapper Tiffany, resulting in the infectious dance single "Azonto" that inspired millions to copy his choreography around the globe. His signature blend of Afro-beats, hip-hop, and rap drew favorable comparisons to Akon and K'naan, earning him the 2012 Urban Music Award for Best Afro-Beats Artist plus a Ghana Music Award nomination—the first time any U.K.-based artist had been shortlisted. By then his YouTube channel had surpassed a million views, and he celebrated further success with the 2012 EP The Buzz. The next year he ignited another dance trend via the single "Antenna," which featured Miami rapper Pitbull alongside American rapper Wyclef Jean and climbed into the Top Ten of the U.K. Singles Chart. Three additional chart entries from this period later appeared on his debut album, T.I.N.A., issued in late 2014 and named after his empowerment initiative. In 2015 Fuse issued "Top of My Charts," followed in 2016 by "BomBae" featuring Zack Knight and Badshah, and in 2017 by the tracks "Window Seat" and "Sunrise" with Jillionaire and Fatman Scoop. His contributions to Ed Sheeran's ÷ album made him the first Ghanaian artist to receive a Grammy. Early in 2019 he unveiled his sophomore album New Africa Nation, again championing cultural pride, self-reliance, and achievement; the project was introduced by the single "Bra Fie," Twi for "come home," which included Damian Marley.