Sarkodie says he will only engage in a rap battle with accomplished international music stars.
Sarkodie has received several criticisms for questioning the integrity of local radio critics, who he claims are mounting unnecessary pressure on Ghanaian artists to go international.
According to Sarkodie, local presenters should also think about upgrading themselves and going international, rather than putting pressure on artists.
The 2009 Ghana Music Awards Artist of the Year, who was speaking during an interview with UK-based Ghanaian blogger, Emmanuel Sandyman (Fire Stick), said, he would rather compete against Nigeria’s M.I. Abaga and South Africa’s Cassper Nyovest in a rap battle rather than a lesser known artist.
Sarkodie also disclosed that he would not consider going against any young rapper in the industry.
“I feel you only respond when you’re not sure of your [superior] position,” he reasoned.
He, however, admitted he has an interest in taking on an international rapper.
“M.I. Abaga, yeah. Definitely,” he nodded. “Cassper, yeah,” he agreed when the host cited the South African rap act also.
No disrespect [to other rappers] but let’s be realistic, businesswise,” he explained.
Sarkodie added that will only enter a beef for commercial reasons.
“If I have a lyrical battle with Cassper, South Africa will be watching what I’m doing. Nigeria, if I battle M.I., they’ll watch.”
