Though We Have Both Won Best Rapper Awards ‘Amerado Is Not On My Level’ – Lyrical Joe
In a recent interview with Ameyaw TV, Ghanaian rap sensation Lyrical Joe, also known as LJ, sheds light on his musical evolution and the disparities between his craft and that of fellow rapper Amerado. Despite both artists achieving VGMA Best Rapper awards, LJ asserts that their artistic prowess remains unequal.
Ghana’s hip-hop landscape has witnessed a dynamic shift over the years, with emerging talents and established names shaping the genre’s evolution. Among these luminaries are Lyrical Joe and Amerado Burner, two rap powerhouses who have each claimed the coveted VGMA Best Rapper accolade. Yet, as LJ unveils in an insightful interview, their journeys and artistic trajectories diverge in profound ways.
The VGMA Best Rap Performance award is a testament to the virtuosity required to stand out in a fiercely competitive genre. Lyrical Joe acknowledges this, emphasizing that their shared award speaks to their skill but not necessarily to a parity in their abilities. “We are both award-winning rappers, as for that one I agree, but when it comes to rapping we are not equal,” he articulates. The award is more than a shiny trophy; it symbolizes the mastery of the craft, a distinction achieved through relentless dedication and an innate understanding of rhythm, rhyme, and lyrical finesse.
While both LJ and Amerado clinched one VGMA Best Rapper award each, it’s the distinctiveness of their rap styles that sets them apart. In LJ’s words, “I’m on a whole different lane.” Their individuality as artists is a reflection of their personal experiences, influences, and the stories they choose to tell through their verses. Each bar they spit is a brushstroke on their canvas, contributing to the larger portrait of their musical personas.
The disparity LJ alludes to is not only a matter of artistic expression but also a reflection of the rapport between the two rappers. Tensions between Lyrical Joe and Amerado ignited in 2022 when a series of diss tracks were exchanged. The sparks flew after Amerado took aim at LJ in Eno Barony’s track “The Finish Line,” asserting his dominance in the rap scene. This direct challenge prompted LJ to respond with a freestyle that confronted Amerado’s claims and scrutinized his lyrical prowess.
The friction between the two artists underscores the passion and commitment they invest in their craft. It’s a reminder that hip-hop is not just about beats and rhymes but also about the lyrical sparring that has become an integral part of the culture. In this arena, the clash of personalities and styles contributes to the dynamism that keeps the genre alive and thriving.
As LJ’s journey continues, his reflections on his musical odyssey alongside Amerado Burner provide a glimpse into the complexities of rap stardom. Their shared accolades and divergent paths exemplify the multifaceted nature of the hip-hop landscape, where individuality and mastery coexist, shaping a narrative that resonates with audiences and aficionados alike. The VGMA awards are a celebration not only of achievement but also of the tireless pursuit of lyrical excellence that defines these two extraordinary rappers.
