Since her introduction to the music space with debut single “Amalelor” in 2021, Darkua, real name Naa Darkua Chinonye Wristberg, has been nothing short of a talent poised not only to showcase her talent but also propel African music to the people around the world one song at a time.
Darkua has worked to a point where she finds herself as one of the continent’s brightest young stars while building an active community which grows as her career advances. With fan favorites like “Echo“, “You” and more, Darkua has also earned recognition across several facets including multiple nominations at the 3 MusicAwards and performances on some of the biggest stages in Ghana.
Following an impressive run, she was named the Apple Music “Up Next” for Ghana in June 2023, an initiative that spotlights artists who are considered the next big thing in Africa’s music industry. Darkua’s subsequent exploits would prove why she was deserving of such a recognition, crowning everything off with her debut project, “Never Too Late”.
In a conversation with iMullar, Darkua opens up about her career so far, her creative direction, her debut EP and everything in between.
How did we get here? How would you describe your journey so far in the industry?
I know I’ve said this a thousand times, but it’s worth repeating: I’m here today because of my mother. She saw something in me long before I could see it for myself, and I’m forever grateful that I chose to listen. If I hadn’t, I’d probably be crunching numbers at a bank or stuck behind a desk as an accountant somewhere. This journey so far has been a beautiful mix of lessons and blessings; the kind that humbles you and lifts you all at once. Through it all, I remain deeply grateful to God.
Over the last two years, your sound has transitioned and evolved. What influenced these transitions, and would you say this is your final form?
I wouldn’t say this is my final form; not even close. I know I’ll keep evolving with time, and honestly, I love that. Evolving means I’m growing, mastering my craft, unlocking new levels. Without that, how else do I measure progress? It’s just like life; we’re meant to shift, stretch, and become more. Right now, I’m really loving this phase I’m in. I have no idea what the next one will look like but I’m excited for it. I truly can’t wait.
You have a very loud imagery and visual presence; how important is imagery to you as an artist?
Imagery is everything to me. I always want to leave people with something unforgettable. When someone hears the name Darkua, the first few things that come to mind are the details: my lip combo, my stage presence, the way I show up in my outfits. It’s all intentional. I love creating moments that stay with people long after the music stops.
How important was “Echo” to your trajectory as an artist?
I’ve always wanted it to be clear that I’m bold, unapologetically so. I’m not the type to let opinions shape who I am or what I create. If you really listen to my songs, you’ll hear bold statements woven into the lyrics. But with “Echo”, I didn’t hold back at all. I went all out. And I love that I put it out at such an early stage in my career, it set the tone for everything that’s followed.
“U’ve Been Here B4.” Many thought that was your debut project, but it turns out otherwise. Can you share why there was a need for that compilation?
Finally, I get the chance to explain this! There was an opportunity on the table with Apple Music, but it came with one condition, I needed to have a body of work ready. If I didn’t act fast, I was going to miss it. My team, everyone around me, and I knew we had to make something happen, and quickly. After a lot of brainstorming, we realized that putting together my already released singles into a single project was the smartest move. It felt like the perfect way to reintroduce my sound to a wider audience. That’s how “U’ve Been Here B4” came to life; a little nod to those who’ve been rocking with me from the start.
When did the idea for “Never Too Late” start, and what were the initial stages of the project like?
It all started in the latter part of 2022. I had a bunch of unreleased songs I wanted to put together, but when I listened back, I felt like my voice had improved. The plan was to re-record the vocals; just clean them up a bit. But then I thought to myself, “Why not just create something new? Something fresh.” I brought it up with my team and they were fully on board. They said if that’s what I want to do, then let’s do it; and that was all the confirmation I needed.
How strict were you about the theme of the project, and do you feel you were able to execute it like you wanted?
Most people know that I loooove to sing about love. Anything about love, I’m all in. So when the team suggested that we make the project love-themed, I didn’t even think twice. In my head, I was like, “YES, finally!” But “love-themed” didn’t mean every song had to be sweet and romantic. It meant diving into everything that comes with love; the messy parts too. The confusion, the toxicity, the heartbreaks, the betrayal, all of it. And honestly, I think I nailed it. The execution? Chef’s kiss.
You went on a solo run on the project working. Why the solo run? And if there were going to be features on the project, who were some people that you would’ve wanted on there?
Since this is my first body of work, I really wanted people to see what I can do on my own; no second or third party involved. That’s why every single song was written by me too. I was just locked in, doing my thing. To be honest, I didn’t even think about featuring anyone. If I’m keeping it real, no name comes to mind. It was all about showing what Darkua can do, solo.
With this being your first project, what is the expectation from you and the team? How has the initial reception been so far?
It’s a reflection of how far I’ve grown as a vocalist and as a songwriter. I just wanted it to connect with people on a real, personal level. I hoped every emotion would be felt, and every message in the songs would be received exactly how they’re meant to. And honestly, so far it’s been even more than I imagined. Glory be to the Most High God.
You’re part of a few young women pushing Ghanaian music across; how challenging has it been looking at the pressures that are often placed on women?
It’s been tough, not gonna lie. Being an independent artist, especially in a male-dominated space, is no joke. My team and I constantly have to put in three times the effort, with little to no funding. It’s been challenging, but by God’s grace, we’ve conquered a lot already, and we’re not stopping anytime soon. We’re just getting started.
With the arrival of the project, should we expect a show anytime soon?
Okay, ALL RIGHT!!!! Yes! There’s a Darkua show happening this year. Are you happy now?!
What are your last words for our readers?
If you’ve made it to this point, I love you. Keep supporting me every way you can. No support is too small. Share my music, use my songs in your videos, on your stories, however you can, tweet about me, tag me when you share anything that has to do with my music. God bless you!
Written by Nana Kojo Mula and Brian Benjamin.
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