EMERGING Ghanaian artiste Ybb Ceejay has revealed how a simple direct message (DM) from acclaimed rapper E.L became the turning point in his life and strengthened his resolve to pursue music seriously.

What started as a brief online interaction soon became a defining moment that convinced him he was on the right path.

According to him, the unexpected message from the award-winning rapper served as a powerful boost of confidence at a time when he was still finding his footing in the industry.

In a chat with Graphic Showbiz on Tuesday, March 17, Ybb Ceejay explained that E.L not only listened to his music but also offered practical advice that helped shape his sound and approach as an artiste.

“It all started when I sent E.L a few freestyle songs I had recorded and uploaded on my SoundCloud. I shared the link with him on Twitter, now X, and that’s where our first interaction happened.

“He listened, but didn’t reply right away, so I followed up. When he finally got back to me, he told me he loved the songs.

“The real turning point came later in 2019 when I got a direct message from E.L on Instagram. He told me his team at VONation had already sent me a DM and that I should check it out and get ready for his BAR Concert.

“At that moment, I told myself, if E.L, one of the greatest MCs in Ghana, likes what I do to give me a chance, then I must be on to something good,” he added.

Meeting E.L. in person gave Ybb Ceejay the opportunity to receive valuable pieces of advice on improving his music and connecting more with his African audience.

“My second encounter with him was in person, after I performed at the BAR Concert in 2019. He gave me a few pointers on how to elevate my music at the time.

“He loved what I was doing, but he asked me to be more African so my stories would connect better with people here,” he shared.

When asked why E.L told him to sound more African, he said, “I grew up around a lot of African Americans here in Ghana. My first school, Patricia Nursery at Ringway Estates, Accra, had a Caucasian principal who loved having me around her.

“I would spend time in her office while her white friends visited, and as a kid, I naturally picked up how they spoke. Whatever they said, I would repeat. Over time, I ended up with an American accent.”

In addition to E.L’s influence, the artiste says he draws inspiration from a wide range of musicians.

“I love every artiste, but there are a few I keep on constant rotation. Someone like Drake really appeals to me; his music is smooth, introspective and at the same time, fiery and cold.

“Here in Ghana, I look up to legends such as Sarkodie, Shatta Wale, and E.L. I also admire artistes like Gyakie, KiDi, and King Promise. These musicians have shaped my sound, and you can hear traces of their influence in my music,” he said.

Ybb Ceejay, born Benjamin Nii Nai Annan Jnr, blends Afro R&B and Hip-Hop to create his music and is known for songs about love, struggles, hope and faith.

His repertoire includes Drunk (2024), Pillow with Kae Blacc and Pronto, all showcasing his mix of smooth melodies and rap influences.