Safo Newman, the Akokoa singer, said a breakout song does not guarantee that the rest of a career will fall into place automatically. The artist explained that while a hit builds a base, maintaining momentum requires relentless work.
"A hit is a completion of the foundation, sort of. You have to build on it and that is also huge work," Safo said. He added that each new project demands the same commitment because success does not continue on its own simply because you have had a hit.
When Akokoa gained popularity, several big names in the music industry, including Sarkodie, rallied behind the young artiste. Safo said that support helped the song reach a wider audience quickly and was vital to spreading its message.
Despite speculation of a remix collaboration with Sarkodie, Safo clarified that the rapper had not officially announced a feature on Akokoa. He noted that any future work together would likely be on a new song rather than a remix.
Safo also warned that constant support can hinder an emerging artist’s development. He compared the process to a child learning to walk, saying that occasional guidance is normal but over‑handholding can prevent an artist from finding their unique path.
He urged up‑and‑coming musicians to accept that not every release will receive the same level of attention, and that differing responses do not diminish the value of any work.
Looking ahead, Safo sees himself contributing to the next chapter of highlife. He said his music blends various sounds while respecting the genre’s heritage, and he anticipates further foreign influences and AI‑generated music to shape highlife’s evolution.
