Feature: Reggie Rockstone has lost it

Acclaimed originator of hiplife, Reggie Rockstone is in the news again, and probably for the right reasons.

Collaborating with Sway DaSafo for a song is a good thing, and although I have all the respect for Reggie, I think he's lost it.

He has simply lost the appeal, the enthusiasm and the aggressiveness of a rapper and his lyrical potency is virtually inept.

Ten years ago when Reggie was in his prime, he never had the time and luxury to do collaborations with anyone, until Mensa came along. That was when 'old' Reggie was a formidable force to reckon with - that should have been the appropriate time for him to have done duets with all the hiphop greats. Recent 'collabos' with 2Face, Beenie Man and now Sway, goes to show that the 'Grandpapa'of hiplife has lost steam, fire and swagger, and he can barely stand alone. He's grown weak - lyrically I mean.

I am not takig anything away from Rockstone, he's done enough for the hiplife industry and according to unconfirmed reports, a documentary on hiplife and Reggie is being prepped at a US University.

Kudos Reggie, but it is about time he cottoned to the fact that, there are now tens of young artistes that are doing incredible stuff and are better than Reggie of today. No lie!

With the status Reggie has attained, it would be prudent for him to take up an ambassadorial, producer, manager-like role and give the more exciting young ones the platform to market hiplife.

He could be Dr.Dre and open the way for hiplife versions of Eminem, 50 Cent, Snoop, Xzibit and The Game.

He could not stay out in retirement because of the undying love he has for music, according to him. I understand, but he can be actively involved in music without always having to rap.

Make no mistake, am not a Reggie-hater, infact I have all his records from 'Makaa Maka' to the 'Last Show' but the truth must always be told.

Reggie has undoubtedly paid his dues and it is only appropriate that he stays on the sideline and direct afairs. ROCKST-OOOOOOONE!

ARNOLD ASAMOAH-BAIDOO


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