Phil Evans Akesse-Brempong, widely known by his stage name Akesse Brempong, is a celebrated Ghanaian gospel singer, songwriter, recording artist, and worship leader. He has distinguished himself within the gospel music landscape through a powerful blend of reggae, Afropop, soul, and contemporary worship music. Best known for his dynamic stage presence, passionate vocals, and compelling songwriting, Akesse has not only reshaped gospel music in Ghana but also positioned himself as a pioneering voice in African inspirational music.
Early Life and Family Background
Akesse Brempong was born in the late 1970s in Kumasi, located in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. He hails from the town of Efiduase-Asokore and was raised in a devout Christian family that instilled in him a love for both the gospel and music. His father, Evans Akesse-Brempong, and mother, Gina Akesse-Brempong, provided a stable, nurturing home that supported Akesse’s early artistic tendencies. As the only son among his siblings, Akesse was both disciplined and driven from an early age.
His early musical exposure came through church, where he began singing and playing instruments as a child. His involvement in church choirs and youth fellowships played a crucial role in shaping his understanding of worship and performance.
Education and Artistic Development
Akesse’s formal education began in Kumasi, after which he proceeded to the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, where he studied Communication Design. While at university, he became heavily involved in ministry work and campus fellowships, honing both his spiritual insights and musical skills.
During his time at KNUST, Akesse was exposed to a variety of global music styles, including reggae, jazz, rock, and soul. These genres would go on to influence his musical identity deeply. He credits reggae icons such as Bob Marley, as well as Christian artists like Donnie McClurkin and Israel Houghton, as major influences in shaping his sound.
Musical Career and Key Milestones
The Breakthrough: “Crazy Love” and Rise to Fame
Akesse Brempong’s official entry into the Ghanaian gospel music scene came with the release of his hit single “Crazy Love” in 2014. The song, a high-energy gospel reggae anthem, was unlike anything in the local gospel scene at the time. It quickly gained widespread airplay and was embraced by both young and old audiences for its spiritual message and infectious rhythm.
That same year, Akesse released his debut studio album, Songs in the Night, which was both a critical and commercial success. The album featured hit songs such as:
- “Crazy Love”
- “Closer Walk”
- “Baba”
- “Can’t Ever Stop”
Each song on the album reflected his reggae and soul influences while remaining firmly rooted in gospel.
Live Worship & “West Hills Live”
In 2017, Akesse followed up with a groundbreaking live worship album, West Hills Live, recorded at the West Hills Mall in Accra. This album was noted for its powerful instrumentation, live atmosphere, and passionate delivery. It included fan favorites like:
- “God is Working”
- “Spontaneous Worship”
- “Roar”
This release further cemented his reputation as not only a recording artist but a consummate live performer and worship leader.
Key Songs and Discography
- Songs in the Night (2014)
- West Hills Live (2017)
- Blessed (EP) (2020)
- The Awakening (2022)
Notable singles:
- “No Weed” – an anti-drug anthem
- “Hosanna to the King” – a triumphant worship song
- “Victory”
- “God is Working”
- “Roar”
Each of these songs reflects different elements of Akesse’s musical versatility, from reggae and Afrobeat to traditional gospel and choral worship.
Collaborations and Performances
Akesse has collaborated with many other Ghanaian and African gospel artists, including:
- Joe Mettle
- MOG Music
- Koda
- Diana Hamilton
- Kingzkid
He is also the founder and host of the annual “Roar Worship Experience”, a large-scale live gospel concert that brings together worshippers, musicians, and ministers from across Ghana and beyond.
His international performances have included appearances in the U.K., Nigeria, Kenya, and the United States, where he continues to build a growing following among the African diaspora.
Awards and Recognitions
Akesse Brempong’s work has earned him numerous accolades, such as:
- Reggae/Dancehall Song of the Year at the Africa Gospel Awards Festival (AGAFEST) in 2019 for “No Weed”
- Multiple VGMA nominations for Gospel Artiste of the Year and Best Gospel Song
- Honored by Gospel Bloggers Hub and other gospel media bodies for his innovative role in modern Ghanaian gospel music
Artistic Style and Influence
Akesse Brempong is often regarded as the pioneer of gospel reggae in Ghana. He uniquely merges scripture-based lyrics with uplifting rhythms from reggae, dancehall, highlife, Afropop, and soul. His deep voice, lyrical depth, and spiritual authority distinguish him in a crowded gospel landscape.
He uses his music not only for worship but as a medium for social commentary, addressing issues like drug abuse, spiritual warfare, and the transformative power of faith.
Personal Life and Faith Journey
Akesse is married to Benedicta Akesse-Brempong, with whom he shares a touching story of perseverance. After four years of marriage and trying to conceive, the couple was blessed with a child, a moment he describes as miraculous. A traumatic armed robbery incident in 2021 revealed the pregnancy, which became a profound spiritual turning point for them and inspired the song “God is Working.”
Akesse is also an ordained minister of the gospel, blending his pastoral calling with music ministry. He is known for his humility, charisma, and dedication to empowering the next generation of worship leaders in Ghana.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Akesse Brempong has redefined the boundaries of gospel music in Ghana, proving that faith-based music can be both spiritually enriching and musically exciting. He remains an inspiration to aspiring artists who wish to blend faith, culture, and creativity.
