I received threats after releasing ‘Wahala Dey’ to highlight socio-political issues – Epixode

Dancehall artiste, Theophilus Nii Arday Otoo, known professionally as Epixode has disclosed the numerous challenges he faced after releasing his hit track ‘Wahala Dey.’

Speaking on Joy Prime, the musician said he received phone calls and physical threats after he released his song ‘Wahala Dey,’ which translates to “There’s Trouble” in English.

The song released in 2019 highlighted the socio-political challenges in the country, the reason it was provocative for government officials.

Episode further detailed that due to the threats, there were times he abruptly ends his stage performances for his own safety.

Due to this, the ‘Atia’ hitmaker explained that he was advised to keep a low profile for his safety and that of his family.

“When we dropped ‘Wahala Dey’, I was getting threats and phone calls. There were events that I’m on stage and they are asking me to stop performing so I had to lay low for a while. Because I may be the one in front but the family may suffer for what I’m doing.

”Even though it’s a lonely road to trot…Yes, I’ve lost a few things but also it has given me certain type of respect and power to be different from the rest of the artistes,” he noted.

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It will be recalled that Epixode, in 2019 released ‘Wahala Dey’, which touches on the state of Ghana’s economy and other societal issues.

The song made waves after it was released because it portrayed the minds of Ghanaians by questioning politicians and their behaviour towards the development of the nation.

The 2021 VGMA Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year also condemned churches for becoming business centres and how celebrities are causing societal pressure for the youth with their extravagant lifestyles.

It was obvious that the messages the song conveyed did not go well with political actors.

Epixode went on to reveal that he has made some enemies and has even lost deals as a result of the song. However, he added that he is comforted to stand with ordinary people and speak truth to power.