Amaarae responds to critics over absence of Ghana-based artistes on new album
By Samuella Antwi
Ghanaian Afropop singer Amaarae has responded to growing criticism following the release of her latest studio album ‘Black Star.’
Some fans and social media users questioned why the project did not feature any artistes based in Ghana, despite Amaarae’s long-standing promotion of Ghanaian culture on international stages.
Amaarae, who is based in the United States, has often expressed her deep love for Ghana. Earlier this year, she made headlines for her electrifying performance at the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California.
In view of this, many fans expected ‘Black Star’ to feature at least one Ghana-based artiste. The apparent absence of home-based collaborators sparked online debate, with some critics accusing Amaarae of neglecting local talent.
In a video posted to her TikTok on 13 August 2025, Amaarae addressed the matter alongside Bree Runway, whose real name is Brenda Wireko Boatemaa Mensah.
The rapper, though based in the UK, is of Ghanaian descent.
Speaking in a mix of Twi and English, the two laughed off suggestions that Bree was “not Ghanaian.”
“You people were saying I did not feature any Ghanaian. You guys said I’m claiming Black Star but I did not feature any Ghanaian. If she’s not Ghanaian, who is she?” Amaarae questioned. Bree Runway went on to mention her full Ghanaian name in the video, further affirming her heritage
