KOD: “I Was One of the Few Who Sacrificed to Get HipLife Played on Radio”
Veteran MC, radio and TV personality, and President of Nineteen 57, Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD), has opened up about his pivotal role in the early airplay of the HipLife genre.
In an exclusive interview with Nana Romeo on Accra FM, during his media tour for the upcoming “Rhythms On Da Runway” (The Kente Edition) fashion event set for Saturday, November 30, KOD shared how he was among the few broadcasters who championed HipLife in its early years.
“In the late 1990s, around 1998-1999, I had the opportunity to work with Radio Gold, which was not typically known for playing secular music. At that time, HipLife was emerging, and many considered its fast-paced lyrics too disconnected from their target audience. However, being friends with legendary artists like Reggie Rockstone, Mark Okraku Mantey, and others, I would often receive their new releases and push them on air. This led to a suspension from management for promoting HipLife,” KOD recalled.
KOD also highlighted how others supported his growth early on, shaping his path to success. “Back in 1999, Charterhouse, the organizers of the Ghana Music Awards, recognized my potential and gave me the chance to host their red carpet for seven years. That opportunity played a huge part in my career. So, when I get the chance to support others, I do it without hesitation, because you never know when you’ll need someone to do the same for you,” he added.
