Kofi Bruce is on a decent run as he continues to hone his genre-bending sounds without compromising the Afrocentric tilt of his brand of music. Known for a style that cuts across Highlife/Palm Wine music, Jazz and Soul, the fast-rising Ghanaian artist boasts a fan base in tune with the gentle, slow-rocking aura of his sounds. On his latest single, Popular Stranger, the singer’s signature rhythms persist as he expresses sentiments on his prospects as a rising star. His positive attitude is the light of the song as he shows the will to stay relevant and make an impact against all odds.
Kofi Bruce has always had an eye for music that expresses strong beliefs and some thoughtfulness, with his soundscape often veering off the mainstream. A significant feature of his music is the use of a local instrument called Afrikyewa (thumb bell). The Afro-alternative connoisseur’s silky voice and unwavering work ethic is conspicuous in his songs, including 2021 singles Akaaba and Aketesia, and 2022 singles Martha Matter and Philomena. Embarking on a flight with the single Yellow in 2023, he made a solid landing on his three-track debut EP, Tappers Joint, which includes the lead single Accra, produced by Shaker. Accra ranked amongst Top 5 tracks of the VOA Music In The City and generated critical reviews.
Committed to propagating optimism through poignant, deeply resonant sounds, Kofi Bruce’s confidence remains unwavering as it seeps through Popular Stranger. It appears he is mindful of doubters, including those who have refused to provide the needed aid to help him navigate his career as a growing artiste. “They won’t fuck with you as you dey grind/ And you feel like you are behind,” he croons, perhaps reflecting on his struggles as an artist in quest of superstardom.
Like many other facets of life, the music industry in Africa is known for its ferocity and competitiveness, with younger artistes often having a hard time getting recognized. Kofi Bruce does not hide his feelings on this reality as reflects on the chasm often created between industry superstars and up-and-coming artistes. But the artist focuses on the light at the end of the tunnel, prioritizing his career over any grudges. His unwavering confidence is encapsulated in the chorus: “About to be a fucking A-List Star/ VVIP and all /Champagne, we’ll be popping/ Work hard and play hard.”
Popular Stranger is accompanied by a music video, which you can watch here: