Ghanaian rap star Sarkodie has celebrated fellow artiste Edem for his groundbreaking debut album “The Volta Regime”, calling it one of the greatest albums in Ghana’s music history.

In a heartfelt social media post, Sarkodie, whose real name is Michael Owusu Addo, reflected on the first time he heard Edem rap.

He said he was instantly impressed and knew Edem would have a serious impact on the music scene.

“I remember when I first encountered my brother Edem, I came back home to tell one of my hommies that this guy will have a serious impact on the music scene,”

“He was like naa because of the language barrier. I said I don’t hear language, I hear greatness. Big up my brother, you are still on my favourite emcee list.” Sarkodie wrote.

Edem, born Denning Edem Hotor, released The Volta Regime in 2009. The album boldly embraced the Ewe language and featured collaborations with top Ghanaian artists including Tinny, Kwabena Kwabena, and Jeremie Van-Garshong.

Despite initial doubts about how well Ewe rap would perform commercially, the album proved to be a major success and introduced a new wave of local-language hip-hop.

Songs like Bra Fre Me, Nyorvuviade, and the powerful Intro helped establish Edem’s lyrical prowess and cemented his place as a unique voice in the Ghanaian music industry.

At a time when the local scene was dominated by Twi and Ga-speaking rappers, Edem’s success broke barriers and made it clear that talent speaks louder than language.

His impact opened doors for more linguistic diversity in hiplife and hip-hop music across the country.

Sarkodie’s tribute is especially meaningful because both artists emerged around the same period. Sarkodie’s own debut album Makye also dropped in 2009, and the two have long shown mutual respect for each other’s craft.

Today, over 15 years after its release, The Volta Regime continues to inspire fans and artists alike. It remains a symbol of bold originality and cultural pride.

Edem has since released several projects and remains an active voice in Ghanaian music and youth advocacy. His legacy is a reminder that true greatness is not limited by language.

One of Ghana’s decorated rappers, Sarkodie, known in private life as Michael Owusu Addo will storm the Ashanti Regional capital with Rapperholic.

The Kumasi edition, which will be the first of its kind in the region, is expected to bring music lovers together for an unforgettable moment.

The programme is expected to take place at the Baba Yara sports stadium on September 27.

This was made known when Sarkodie paid courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfour Osei Tutu II.

Addressing the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Sarkodie briefed the King on the event, which marks a significant milestone as the Rapperholic Concert moves to Kumasi for the first time.

He said, “12 years ago, I released an album called Rapperholic, and it has performed well. It was well received by many, so I institutionalised it as an annual celebration.”

“Three years after celebrating it in Kumasi, I am here to hold this year’s edition in Kumasi. I am here with my team to seek the blessings of His Majesty before announcing it,” he stated.

The Asantehene endorsed the programme and expressed interest in attending the concert, scheduled to take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on September 27.

In response, the Asantehene advised the artist to avoid unhealthy competition in the music industry and encouraged him to remain humble.

“Don’t engage yourself in something that will create problems for the artiste. Focused on ventures that will propel the artiste. When honour comes, you will have your share,” Otumfuo added.