E.L – B.A.R 7: A Legacy of Dedication, Belief & Love.

In this candid conversation, Ghanaian musician who wears numerous hats as a rapper, singer, sound engineer and record producer reflects on the remarkable journey of the B.A.R series, a project that has become synonymous to the Ghanaian rap scene. From its humble beginnings to its seventh installment, E.L takes us through his creative evolution, the inspirations driving the continuation of the series, and the challenges faced along the way. It is quite clear the once Ghana Music Awards “Artiste of the Year” finds a middle ground between innovation and authenticity, while collaborating with emerging talents, and navigates the murky waters of the music industry. Join us as we explore the themes, motivations, and legacy of one of Ghana’s most dedicated and passionate music icons.

FOURTH AVENEW: Reflecting on your journey so far, how has your music and creative process evolved since the first B.A.R tape?

E.L: I feel like I’ve grown a lot since the inception of the B.A.R series. I feel very lucky because the B.A.R series has served as a sort of life journal for me. I’m very excited to look back on to see the progress that we’ve made. It goes without saying that with time comes wisdom, maturity and the experiences heavily reflected in the content of the series.

F.A: The B.A.R series has been highly influential in the Ghanaian rap scene. What inspired you to continue the series to its seventh installment even though you once said it was going to be just a trilogy?

E.L: Making music is both a pleasure and an honor for me. I’m happy that I am able to pursue my passion and make a living from it. At the same time, I serve as a voice to and for my people so finding inspiration to continue the B.A.R series even after the third was not a hard decision for me. It was a no-brainer because though it might seem like work, for me it’s actually my pleasure.

F.A: How do you balance maintaining your signature style while also experimenting with new
sounds and themes on B.A.R 7?

E.L: I do not set out to maintain a signature style, but I do set out to be experimental. I guess being one’s authentic self will always come across as being a signature style because it’s reflective of who you truly are. I think it’s important to think outside the box and to play around with different ideas, that to me is the essence of creativity.

F.A: Can you share some of the challenges you’ve faced in the music industry and how they’ve shaped your career and artistry?

E.L: Challenges come and go all the time I do not focus too much on them. Challenges I consider are fleeting and only come to serve a purpose. I use challenges as stepping stones and transformative experiences. I focus mainly on the lessons that these challenges teach.

F.A: A lot has happened since you won Artiste of The Year at the Ghana Music Awards in 2016, so what themes or messages are you exploring in B.A.R 7, and how do they reflect your current state of mind and experiences since that time?

E.L: There isn’t a particular theme that I follow when recording an album. I instead curate songs based on my experience within that timeframe. Like I said before this represents my journey, and I like to leave a lot open for translation by the listener.

F.A: Collaborations have been a significant part of your career looking at how you’ve shared the spotlight with lesser known rappers, producers and singers. Are there any special features or producers on this album that you’re particularly excited about?

E.L: I’m excited about all the music that has been produced on this project and I feel like it’s a
perfect synergy of compositions made by both myself and featured producers. I do not set out initially planning which producers I want to work with, this process remains organic and free flowing. I’m happy to hit the studio and let the chips fall where they may, with regards to producer and feature selection. I also believe the authenticity of the project shines through when you don’t approach it with too much rigidity. With that said I’m proud of what we’ve achieved for this installation of the B.A.R project.

F.A: The music industry has changed significantly over the past decade. How have these changes impacted your approach to creating and releasing music?

E.L: I think change is necessary in the music landscape, there are tools that have made the whole process more streamlined and I think it’s up to the artist to take advantage of these opportunities. I encourage my friends and peers to always educate themselves and regularly update their approach in this constantly changing environment.

F.A: Looking back at your discography, which album or song holds the most personal significance to you, and why?

E.L: I would say, ‘Shine,’ off B.A.R 3; from production to the composition of the song. It’s also very
relatable.

F.A: How do you stay motivated and inspired to create new music, especially within a long-running series like B.A.R?

E.L: I feel like making music is my purpose finding motivation is easy.

F.A: What do you hope your fans take away from B.A.R 7, and what legacy do you aim to leave in the Ghanaian music industry when all is said and done?

E.L: I hope to leave a legacy of one who showed dedication and stood for what he believed in and loved.