Bridging The Gap: How Smallgod Is Connecting Worlds With Music

It is quite rare to stumble on an individual who would go to inexplicable lengths to figuratively carry African music and culture on their back. For Smallgod or “Abonten Father” as he’s often referred to, doing this is like second nature to him. From igniting careers in the underground scene to soaring across continents, Smallgod has carved a path of innovation and authenticity unlike any other. We sat down with the man, myth and legend himself ahead of the release of his third studio album to discover the enigmatic world of this multifaceted human being to explore the intricate tapestry of his journey from cultural luminary to musical virtuoso. This interview promises to unravel the essence of artistry, activism, and cultural revolution!

F.A: Anyone tapped into the scene here is no stranger to the name Smallgod due to the countless things you continue to do for the cultural and entertainment scene, but how have you been able to make the transition from being a cultural icon to becoming an artist?

S.G: Well, I’m not just an artist as I always say to people. If you say that it means you’re trying to box me. I DJ, I’m into fashion, I have business; when it comes to anything creative you’ll find me there championing something. The ‘Smallgod’ brand is big, being an artist is part of the things I do. 

F.A: Your influence spans across Ghana, Africa, and the diaspora. How do you navigate the cultural nuances and diverse audiences while staying true to your artistic vision?

S.G: It’s not just about making music, for me it’s about my upbringing as well. I make sure at all times, I’m selling the African continent to the rest of the world so that translates into everything I do. I try my best to make music not just for doing it’s sake but rather look for the right sound, collaborate with the right people to tell the African story the right way people can feel good about it.

F.A: ‘Bridging The Gap,’ that’s a very interesting name. Why is that?

S.G: What I stand for is to bring Africa closer to the rest of the world. So when you look at the titles of my previous albums, it has been to that effect. I’m always looking for a way to connect the scene here with opportunities in the West and how to also bring our diaspora brothers and sisters home. What better way to do that than through music? You realize that it’s different names but the motive is always the same.

F.A: As you prepare to release your third studio album, how has your approach to selecting the right people for each record evolved since your earlier works?

S.G: It’s never about a big name or whatever. I’m a hands-on type of person who’s always on the ground so when I hear something that’s unique I know. I’m never one to do A-list, B-list, C-list or whatever type of list you would like to call it. If the person is good and fits what I’m working on at the time then it’s fine. There are a lot of artists and producers I worked with way before others caught on to them, I mean the evidence is there so I wouldn’t want to go into details.

F.A: Your work often addresses social issues and celebrates African culture. How do you see your role helping to shape conversations and perceptions around your recent #PLAYGHANA agenda?

S.G: I wouldn’t say I started this whole initiative, it’s been there before me and I’m just adding my voice and influence to make sure the right thing is done. Artists like Reggie Rockstone, Shatta Wale and so many others have been big proponents of it in the past. I think what made the difference this time around is the critical times that we find ourselves in. The bottom line is to help especially the artists and other key stakeholders to recognize how important it is for us to put Ghana first when it comes to our music and other creative endeavors.

F.A: Collaborations have been a significant part of the Smallgod music career. Can you tell us about how you were able to get names like Nico & Vinz, Digital Farm Animals, Didi B and others into the studio?

S.G: Sometimes I find myself in the same rooms with these artists and we just hit it off, other times I get the beat done separately then I figure out which artist would be the best fit on it then I approach them. There are those occasions where there’s the need for multiple verses as well so I have to personally travel to wherever they are to cut the record. It always has to start with a beat.

F.A: What has been your most memorable collaboration?

S.G: No, I can’t say that. It’s like having twenty kids and being told to choose your favorite.

F.A: Your music cuts across genres. How do you push the boundaries of traditional genres like highlife, hiplife and azonto while still honoring their roots?

S.G: There’s nothing new under the sun when it comes to sound in music. If you listen to Afrobeats there are still elements of Highlife in there, so for me it’s about fusing the old and new sound together to make sure we don’t lose ourselves. In essence, I’m literally bridging the gap to make sure we’re in sync. 

F.A: Your influence extends beyond music into various cultural spheres. How do you balance your roles as an artist, activist, influencer and most importantly a family man?

S.G: I won’t sit here and say it’s a walk in the park. I won’t like to lie to anyone here. It’s sleepless nights, dedication, stress, heartbreaks, there’s a lot that goes into this. You need to have passion for anything you do first of all, so I think that’s what takes me through. For where I’m at now, I have a lot of belief in our current creative scene which fuels me to reach the greatest heights. Imagine me going to bed while the artists I work with are in the studio recording, how does that work out for me? So I’m mostly awake trying to work hard and be consistent.

F.A: That’s quite interesting Smallgod. So what do you do to relax, aside from working?

S.G: That doesn’t exist for me sorry. I think when you find entertainment in what you do everyday is relaxing. I can’t afford to take time out and go relax somewhere for a week or two, I just condition my mind. Even when I’m here at the Smallworld HQ I could be in one of the studios listening to music to relax, I could be in another room with FLACKO; my designer just sharing design ideas, or talking to you [Ato Kilson] about some general ideas or playing board games with the guys. They are all ways of relaxing while at work.

F.A: Last year, you went into a JV with Warner Records to start Smallworld Records. Congratulations on that!

S.G: Thank you very much.

F.A: Looking ahead into the future, what contributions do you think this partnership would bring to the music industry here in Ghana and Africa?

S.G: Warner Records coming in is like a big machine that’s going to enable us to rub shoulders with the West. The goal is to always push the great music we make here to a wider audience. I’m here to play my part by making sure Africa gets the same opportunity.

F.A: Any last words Smallgod?

S.G: Keep pushing! ‘Bridging The Gap’ is out in a few days, make sure you enjoy it.