Born Derrick Sarfo Kantanka on February 14, 1995, in Ejisu, Kumasi, Amerado attended KNUST Senior High and is now studying Political Science at the University of Ghana . His stage name means “Governor” in Twi—reflecting his ambition to lead Ghana’s rap scene.
Amerado’s journey began when he placed third in the Solid FM Freestyle Show. He was discovered and signed by MicBurnerz Music, under Azee Ntwene.
His first major single, “I AM,” earned a spot in Pulse Ghana’s Top 10 (Jan 2017). He followed it up with his debut EP Rapmare in November, showcasing early signs of storytelling flair. He was featured on Sarkodie’s “Biibi Ba” (2018), earning a nomination for Best Hip‑Hop Song at the 2019 VGMA.
He joined Shatta Wale on “Ahodwo Las Vegas” and delivered a standout freestyle on Tim Westwood’s Capital Xtra in London, with GRM Daily calling it “one of the best”. In October 2021, his second EP Patience, featuring Black Sherif, Shatta Wale, Fameye and others, topped Apple Music, Audiomack, Boomplay and YouTube charts.
It won Best EP at the 2022 3Music Awards, and Amerado became the first Kumasi rapper to clinch Rapper of the Year at both the 3Music Awards and VGMA.
His first full-length album, G.I.N.A. (“God Is Never Asleep”), dropped in October 2022. It features 10 tracks with big names like S1mba, Efya, Eno Barony, Lasmid, Laioung, and Fameye . Standout songs include “Back To Sender” and “Grace,” each surpassing 10 million streams.
Notable Tracks: I AM (2017) – Pulse Ghana Top 10 hit || Biibi Ba with Sarkodie (2018) – VGMA‑nominated || Back To Sender – Lead single from G.I.N.A.; a bold anthem on haters ||Grace – A reflective, melodic feature from _G.I.N.A. || Merry Go Round (Apr 2025) – showcasing life’s ups and downs; rich in storytelling and emotional depth || PHARAOH (July 2025) Latest single.
Accolades & Impact : 2023 VGMA Best Rapper – First from Kumasi to win in the category || 2022 3Music Awards – Best EP for _Patience || Recognized by Audiomack as a Top–10 African artist to watch in 2020 || Creator of Yeete Nsem, Ghana’s first news‑rap series
Amerado raps predominantly in Twi, peppered with English, weaving traditional proverbs and punchy wordplay—earning him titles like “The Hoodie Rapper” or “Twi Machine” . Off‑stage, he represents Ghana‑made chocolates and brands like Vodafone, AirtelTigo, GoTV, and Cheezzy Pizza .
Amerado is leading a wave of Afrorap—a fusion of rap with Afro‑centric elements—championing his Kumasi heritage on an international stage. Through impactful lyrics and innovative formats like Yeete Nsem, he continues to redefine Ghana’s hip‑hop narrative.
Listen ||Stream || Download || Amerado’s songs on Spotify.
