Renowned movie star Kyekyeku recently shared on Accra 100.5 FM’s Entertainment Capital how the King of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, serves as a primary inspiration for the innovative spirit thriving in the Ashanti region.
Host Prince Benjamin (PB) delved into what motivates the region’s people to break barriers and pioneer new paths.
Kyekyeku passionately expressed, “Our king. Just hearing his name – Ote Kokooso (the one who sits on gold) – holds immense power. Otumfuo’s influence transcends borders, igniting creativity and ambition globally. His leadership alone fuels our drive.”
Over the years, Kumawood, centered in Kumasi near Otumfuo’s Manhyia Palace, has defied odds by nurturing and showcasing talents, catapulting many actors to national and international acclaim.
Notably, the region birthed the Kumerican Drill or Asakaa music movement, garnering global attention with hits like Yaw Tog’s “Sore.”
In a significant nod, the Recording Academy of America acknowledged this genre shift, rebranding it as Ghanaian Drill and including it in the Grammy Awards under Best African Music Performance.
Despite Accra’s prominence in the creative industry, Kumasi stands out, showcasing unparalleled ingenuity with limited resources.
Kyekyeku, part of the group pushing Kumawood onto social media platforms like YouTube, has ventured into movie production.
His debut film “1957,” premiered in Kumasi, explores Ghana’s tribal dynamics post-independence, promoting unity and cultural appreciation.
Starring industry icons Aka Ebenezer (Dr. Likee) from Kumawood and Kalsoume Sinare from Ghallywood, the film bridges the rural-urban cultural gap, symbolising Ashanti’s enduring creative legacy.