Ghanaian-American musician Amaarae, celebrated for her unapologetic style and bold artistry, recently disclosed the overwhelming hate she’s faced since returning to Ghana in 2017. In a candid interview with ABC News Live Prime, the artist formerly known as Petrah attributed the negative reception to her fearlessness as a woman who refuses to conform to societal norms.
“I don’t think that I have seen anyone get as much hatred from their home country as I have,” Amaarae shared. “It is unfortunate and I think it also has a lot to do with me being a woman that is so bold and expressive. I think it kind of shocked people and scared them.”
Amaarae has been characterized by her unique fusion of Afro-pop and alternative sounds, paired with her daring fashion sense and unwavering authenticity. The backlash she’s experienced, she believes, stems from deep-seated discomfort with her defiance of traditional gender roles in Ghanaian society.
Amaarae is not just about the music. She’s a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and the need for society to embrace diverse forms of expression. In her interview, she emphasized the importance of creating space for women to break free from the boxes they are often confined to.
“Real conversations about our community need to happen, real conversations about the way that women are viewed and allowed to express themselves,” she said. “You don’t have to conform or fall into any boxes. You can pave whatever path you want, but you have to stick to it and grind it out.”
Despite the hate, Amaarae’s star continues to rise. She is currently on tour with American pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter, whom she described as a source of inspiration.
Her discography, which includes hits like “Reckless & Sweet,” “Like It,” “Leave Me Alone,” and “Wasted Eyes,” has earned her a devoted following. Her feature on British rapper Stormzy’s track “This What I Mean” further cemented her place on the international music scene.
Amaarae has received the prestigious ‘Woman of the Year’ award at the 2024 3Music Awards, recognizing her persistence and artistic contribution.
