In the world of African hip-hop, few artists wield language with the finesse of M.anifest—the Ghanaian rapper whose razor-sharp wit, poetic lyricism, and socially conscious narratives have earned him a place among the continent’s elite MCs.
Known for weaving history, intellect, and culture into his music, M.anifest has carved out a reputation as not just a rapper but a storyteller, philosopher, and global ambassador of Ghanaian sound.
From winning prestigious awards to collaborating with musical giants, his journey reflects a seamless fusion of hip-hop, Afrobeat, and highlife. Whether he’s dropping philosophical bars or paying homage to Ghanaian legends, M.anifest has become synonymous with innovation and artistry.
Here’s an exclusive deep dive into everything you need to know about M.anifest, covering his awards, discography, artistry, net worth, and much more:
1. Biography & early life
- Real Name: Kwame Ametepee Tsikata
- Born: November 20, 1982, in Accra, Ghana
- Education: Studied Economics at Macalester College in the U.S.
- Family: Son of Ghanaian lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata and Rev. Dr. Priscilla Naana Nketia
- Grandfather: J.H. Kwabena Nketia, a renowned African ethnomusicologist
2. Discography
Albums
- Manifestations (2007)
- The Birds and the Beats (2009) – A free mixtape for charity
- Immigrant Chronicles: Coming to America (2011)
- Apae: The Price of Free (2013)
- Nowhere Cool (2016)
Notable singles
- “God MC” – A lyrical masterpiece
- “No Shortcut to Heaven” – Featuring Obrafour
- “Someway Bi” – Earned third place in the International Songwriters Competition
- “Azumah Nelson Flow” – A tribute to Ghanaian boxing legend
- “Big Mad” – Featuring Nigerian singer Simi
3. Awards & achievements
- 2017 Ghana Music Awards – Best Rapper & Hip-Hop Song of the Year
- BBC Radio’s The Strand (2012) – Named one of four acts to watch
- The Guardian (2015) – Dubbed “the continent’s foremost rapper”
- International Songwriters Competition (2015) – Third place for “Someway Bi”
4. Artistry & style
- Lyricism: Known for his deep, poetic, and socially conscious lyrics
- Influences: Blends hip-hop, hiplife, Afrobeats, and African rhythms
- Collaborations: Worked with Damon Albarn, Flea, Tony Allen, and Erykah Badu
- Performance: Has graced stages like Big Brother Africa and Channel O Music Video Awards
5. Net Worth & business ventures
- Estimated net worth: Undisclosed, but considered one of Ghana’s top-earning rappers
- Co-founder of Giant Steps, a conference for creative entrepreneurs
- Has lectured at universities like Macalester College and Ashesi University
