“I Pray and Sometimes Fast for 40 Days Before Releasing Any Song” — Akwaboah Reveals
Ghanaian highlife and soul singer Gladstorm Kwabena Akwaboah Jr., popularly known as Akwaboah, has revealed that he goes through intense spiritual preparation including prayer and fasting for up to 40 days, before releasing any of his songs. The award-winning musician, celebrated for his emotionally stirring vocals and timeless songwriting, says his commitment to prayer is a vital part of his creative process and faith journey.
In a recent interview with Adom TV, Akwaboah explained that he sees music as a sacred gift that carries power to influence people’s emotions and decisions. As such, he does not take the creation or release of a song lightly. “Before I release any song, I go to the mountains to pray. Sometimes, I fast for 40 days before I put a song out. I do this because I believe music is spiritual, and I want to make sure whatever I bring to the public is aligned with God’s will,” he said.
Akwaboah, who has written for several Ghanaian greats including Sarkodie, Becca, and Efya, noted that his spiritual discipline is not just about religion but also about maintaining authenticity and purpose in an industry that often prioritises trends over substance. He shared that his mother and wife have witnessed his strict commitment to this ritual, and that it keeps him grounded amid the fame and pressures of the music industry.
According to the artist, the period of prayer and fasting is not about seeking fame or fortune but about ensuring that his songs carry a message that uplifts and inspires. “Music is not just entertainment to me. It’s a calling. When I write or sing, I want it to heal people, touch lives, and bring peace to listeners. So, I can’t just rush it or treat it like a business decision,” he added.
Akwaboah’s revelation comes at a time when the music landscape has become increasingly fast-paced, with digital trends pushing many artists to churn out songs frequently to stay relevant. Yet, his approach — slowing down, reflecting, and dedicating time to spiritual preparation — is a striking contrast. It portrays him as an artist who prioritises depth and meaning over instant popularity. He believes that every lyric and melody he creates should pass through divine guidance before it reaches the public.
Music enthusiasts and industry watchers have praised Akwaboah for his discipline and spiritual awareness, describing his commitment as a rare example of purpose-driven artistry. Some fans on social media have expressed admiration for his boldness in sharing such a deeply personal practice. Others see it as a refreshing reminder that creativity and faith can co-exist harmoniously, even in the secular music space.
However, not everyone sees things the same way. Some critics have suggested that his approach might not be practical for every artist, especially younger ones trying to break into the industry. They argue that taking 40 days before releasing a song could slow down artistic momentum or reduce engagement in a market that rewards consistency and visibility. Yet, Akwaboah appears unfazed. To him, quality, inspiration, and divine timing outweigh speed and numbers.
Born into a family of musicians, Akwaboah’s spiritual and musical upbringing has had a profound impact on his art. His father, Kwadwo Akwaboah Snr., was a legendary highlife musician who played with greats such as Rex Owusu Marfo and Kojo Antwi. Growing up in that environment, Akwaboah Jr. developed an early appreciation for soulful, message-driven music. Today, that legacy is evident in his compositions, rich in lyrical content, emotional honesty, and melodic excellence.
His latest project, which continues to blend love, spirituality, and life lessons, has reinforced his reputation as one of Ghana’s most thoughtful songwriters. Fans often describe his songs as timeless, the kind of music that lingers long after it stops playing. For Akwaboah, that emotional and spiritual resonance is exactly what he seeks to achieve and what drives his 40-day prayer and fasting routine before each release.
He further explained that during those periods, he often retreats from public attention, cutting off from social media and everyday distractions. “It’s a moment of reflection and connection with God. I don’t go there to ask for fame or awards. I go to ask for direction and purity in the message I’m about to share,” he said.
Industry analysts say Akwaboah’s process could serve as an inspiration for upcoming artists who struggle with the tension between spirituality and mainstream success. In a world where the line between secular and sacred is often blurred, his dedication proves that faith can guide creativity without limiting it. Instead of treating spirituality as a separate part of his life, Akwaboah integrates it into his craft, transforming what could be routine songwriting into an act of devotion.
Fans who have followed his musical journey say this level of discipline is reflected in the power and purity of his voice. Many note that even when Akwaboah sings about love or heartbreak, there’s always a layer of maturity and reverence in his tone. His art feels prayerful, his lyrics deliberate, and his melodies purposeful, a testament to an artist who treats music as ministry.
As Ghana’s entertainment industry continues to evolve, Akwaboah’s faith-inspired approach stands out as a reminder that in a world driven by algorithms and viral challenges, some artists still hold on to the sacredness of their craft. For him, music will always be more than a sound — it is a spirit, and like every spirit, it deserves reverence, preparation, and prayer.
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