The Azonto dance, which peaked in popularity in Ghana in the 2010s and dominated the entertainment scene, has often been associated with rapper Sarkodie.

However, in an interview with BBC News Africa shared on March 7, 2026, the Hip-hop artiste clarified that he did not invent the dance.

According to him, he was only part of the people who helped make it global after mentioning it in one of his songs.

“I did not invent the Azonto dance. I’m definitely part of the people who made Azonto what it is worldwide. It was something already in the Ga community that was happening, but then I happened to say it on a record and it went out there. The dance was already there,” Sarkodie said.

Top moments from Sarkodie's 2026 Rapperholic UK show

The rapper also shared what Sark Nation, his fan base, can expect from him in 2026, disclosing that he plans to release a gospel album, which will be different from what his brand is widely known for. He added that the project is almost complete.

“This year I have a gospel album. We’re, let’s say, about 90% there. That album and a couple of singles here and there will be dropping,” he disclosed.

Talking about his music, the rapper said, “My music is just me expressing a lot of emotions that I feel within me, emotions that have to do with life and everything else that comes with it.”

Sarkodie further explained why his flagship concert, Rapperholic, was taken to the UK for the first time and why he believed 2026 was the right moment to stage it in London.

“We’ve always wanted to take it out of Ghana, and this year felt right because most people in the diaspora already fly to Ghana to experience it. So we might as well just bring it to their doorstep,” he added.

'We have the swag and the music... It's Africa's time now'
Multi award-winning 🇬🇭 hip hop artist Sarkodie spoke with BBC’s Aaron Akinyemi about his popular Rapperholic concert series coming to London’s Royal Albert Hall, and strengthening his ties with the African diaspora pic.twitter.com/O6EjitXJZT

— BBC News Africa (@BBCAfrica) March 7, 2026