Ghanaian afro-soul singer and songwriter, Maame Esi Essilfie, has opened up about the reasoning behind her transition from the stage name Essilfie to Ess The Legend.
Speaking in an interview with Princess AJ on Y107.9FM’s Dryve of Your Lyfe, the Ghanaian creative noted that the decision was not driven by any dislike for her former name. “I like the Essilfie because it’s literally my surname,” she noted.
According to Ess The Legend, the new name sparks curiosity among listeners, which in turn draws attention to her as an artiste. She added that the rebrand has also afforded her a level of privacy, allowing her to separate her personal life from her public identity. “I also like the Ess The Legend because it gets people to notice me, like who is saying they’re a legend?” she quizzed.
“…and also it gives people this curiosity about me. Ess The Legend also gives me a little bit of privacy. That separates me from my real name and my family,” she added.
Ess The Legend adopted her new name in early 2025, alongside a full rebrand aimed at positioning her for bigger stages and increased exposure within Ghana’s music industry and beyond.