Ess The Legend Explores Highlife Roots Through KYEKYRE ME

Ghanaian artiste Ess Thee Legend is stepping confidently into new music, renewed energy and a deeper understanding of her artistry.

During a lively and candid studio conversation on Culture Daily, the singer opened up about her creative process, her latest single KYEKYRE ME, and the realities of building a music career in Ghana, especially as a woman.

Despite her vibrant on-screen personality, Ess Thee Legend describes herself as a true homebody. When she’s not performing or making public appearances, her life revolves around simple pleasures and creativity.

“I have a studio at home, so anytime I get an idea, I just go and lay it down.”

Her downtime includes watching series, cooking and connecting with close friends in an environment she says helps her stay grounded and inspired.

Ess wrapped up 2025 with a two-pack single titled WELL KNOWN, featuring tracks NEVER WORK OUT and WELL KNOWN LONER. While she didn’t release a full EP last year, she maintained consistency with singles like NOTICE ME and CRAVE.

Now in 2026, she’s focused on building momentum with her latest release.

Her new single KYEKYRE ME, featuring RCee, is a standout moment in her catalogue so far.

According to Ess, the song came together effortlessly during a moment of pure inspiration.

“It just flowed naturally… no resistance. I was in a really good mood that day.”

The collaboration with RCee was equally seamless, with the artiste quickly connecting to the song’s nostalgic, old-school vibe and delivering his contribution with ease.

While the title KYEKYRE ME might spark different interpretations, Ess clarified that its true meaning lies in deep emotional attraction not anything explicit.

“It’s like being spellbound by someone… not actual magic, but it feels that deep.”

Blending Afrofusion with elements of Highlife, the track reflects a growing trend among Ghanaian artistes reconnecting with traditional sounds while modernising them.

Ess acknowledged that there is indeed a conscious effort among artistes to revisit Ghana’s musical roots.

“We are learning to love where we are from… reconnecting with Highlife is showing respect to what was and what we can make it.”

Her sound on KYEKYRE ME embodies this balance nostalgic yet fresh, local yet globally appealing.

Beyond the music itself, Ess shed light on the realities artistes face, particularly the financial demands of sustaining a music career.

“Everything costs money… videos, production, promotion. If it were easy, we’d drop music every week.” This, she explains, is why many artistes release strategically rather than flooding the market.

Touching on the broader conversation around female representation in Ghana’s music industry, Ess highlighted confidence and exposure as key barriers.

“Most women are not encouraged to be in the music space… we need more women producers, managers and executives.”

However, she remains optimistic, noting that change is gradually happening as more women step into influential roles.

Ess also emphasised the importance of understanding the business side of music, something she has personally worked on over time.

“When I started, I didn’t know anything. Now I’ve learned a lot… and I’m still learning.”

She encouraged upcoming artistes, especially women, to continuously educate themselves and take control of their careers.