The saying “third time’s a charm” hasn’t quite worked out for Ghanaian musician Rocky Dawuni, but he’s not giving up. After missing out on a Grammy in 2015, 2021, and 2023, he’s back in the race for the prestigious award for the fourth time.
Rocky Dawuni’s Rise album has been nominated in the Best Global Music Performance category. He faces tough competition from industry icons like Angélique Kidjo of Benin, Pakistani-American artist Arooj Aftab, and British musician Jacob Collier.
Speaking to Graphic Showbiz on Monday, November 11, Rocky expressed unwavering confidence that 2025 will be the year he finally secures a Grammy.
“I’m 100 per cent sure I will win my first Grammy next year. Weighing my chances on a scale of 1-10, I believe it is 10. I’ve worked very hard over the years and my consistency will pay off. I’m extremely confident,” he said.
While Rocky Dawuni demonstrated unwavering faith, he was quick to adopt a “never say never” position when asked how he would feel should the outcome be different from his expectation.
“I don’t think I would be that disappointed. First of all, I’m a musician and my first responsibility is to make music. Awards are just the byproduct of what we do as musicians. So, I will keep making music, touring and spreading my message with or without a Grammy,” he stated.
Despite his consistent efforts to promote Ghanaian music on the global stage, questions about Rocky Dawuni’s popularity within Ghana have resurfaced in recent days.
The musician, renowned for hits such as in Ghana, Jammin Nation, Jerusalem, Akwaaba, African Reggae Fever, and Download the Revolution, dismissed claims that his music lacks appreciation in his home country.
Rocky attributed this perception to the tendency of some Ghanaians to overlook or undervalue certain types of music and artists, a group he feels he belongs to. He emphasized that it is misguided to suggest his work is not celebrated in Ghana.