The Ghanaian alternative music scene is gradually gaining recognition in an industry that is largely dominated by Afrobeats and Amapiano.
Being an urban radio station, the YLounge on YFM is a tailor-made radio show that caters to the alternative sound, spotlighting incredible artists like Amaarae M3nsa, Ayra Starr, Moliy, and Worlasi to list a few.
Helmed by Akosua Hanson and DJ Kess, what was once a segment on radio is now a live musical concert that further pushes an array of talented musicians.
On June 28th, the Alternative Lounge concluded with a lineup of performances from artists like DayOnTheTrack, Avit, and Pure Akan inside Airport’s trendy hangout spot Tunnel Lounge.
The outdoor concert kicked off with a hype-woman-DJ tag team performance from Princess AJ and BigKris DJ while evening radio queens Akosua Hanson and DJ Kess set the tone for the YLounge outdoor broadcast experience.
DJ and music producer DREDW then took on a nostalgic journey through R&B and Hip Hop classics from the 90s and early 2000s.
A fresh face in the music scene, Sh3lter started off the performances with tracks like “Ole” followed by Elsie Raad’s vibrant performance of her debut single “26.” All-round rapper and music producer Rey Cooper delivered fiery renditions of his latest release tagged “Fellow Ghanaians,” while Sofie’s debut performance of “3am In Labaadi” included an exciting appearance by La Même Gang artist $pacely.
Notable artists such as Kwesi Soul left the audience vibing to a new one he calls “Ayalolo” — Nigerian-Ghanaian singer Abitemi hit the stage and performed the well-received love ballad “Prove”.
Gaining momentum with projects like “SWMAT” musical collective 99 Phaces wowed the audience with songs like “Kiddie Time” highlighting their distinctive styles — additionally, NYA charmed the crowd with the debut performance of her single “Let Me In.”
With an aura that captivates listeners, Darkua blew the crowd away with soulful renditions of songs like the sultry “Say My Name.” Marince Omario had an impressive performance, bolstered by catchy hooks from songs like “DND” and “Oxford St,” with support from The ART.
Pure Akan delighted the audience with popular hits such as “Mensesa Me Ho” and “Auntie Bete”, while feisty emerging female rapper Haeven made a strong impression with tracks like “Disrespect,” leaving attendees awestruck.
Referred to as “Banger Boy” for a reason, producer and singer DayOnTheTrack introduced us to his new single “Friends” and performed other hits like Animal. With a horned helmet accessorized with cowries, Avit’s dynamic stage presence resonated with the crowd through performances of “Builsa Gokta” and “Election Day.”
Sponsored by Tunnel Lounge, the Alternative Lounge was a resounding success, celebrating a diverse array of musical talents and creating unforgettable moments for all attendees. The annual alté music event produced by Raven Kuewor continues to spotlight artists who push the boundaries of the mainstream sound.
