Celebrating Yvonne Ohene-Djan, aka SHE – The Voice Behind The Stars
From rapper to renowned vocalist, Yvonne Ohene-Djan, known as Nana Ama SHE, has had an extraordinary journey in the Ghanaian music industry. Discovered by the legendary producer Jay Q in 1999, SHE’s talent was evident from the moment she sang her first note.
Initially part of the group ‘Cow & Chicken’ as a rapper, it was her hidden vocal talent that captured Jay Q’s attention. He saw in her a future star and guided her transition from rap to singing, believing that her voice would be a blessing to Ghanaian music.
The Rise of SHE
Working with some of Ghana’s biggest names, SHE quickly established herself as a go-to backing vocalist. Her voice added depth and soul to hits like Daddy Lumba’s ‘Asieho’ and ‘Ayehuhuuhu,’ Bradez’s ‘One Gallon,’ Mzbel’s ’16 Years,’ and Becca’s ‘Daa Ke Daa.’ Her impressive resume includes collaborations on over 70 hit songs, showcasing her incredible versatility and indispensability in the industry. Jay Q often praised her creativity, noting how she could turn any song into a masterpiece with her touch,
Collaborations with Legends
Rex Omar, another music legend, described SHE as more than just a collaborator, calling her a daughter and a crucial part of his creative process. Her contributions to his hit ‘Dadadida’ exemplify her ability to elevate a song to greatness. Despite numerous attempts to push her to the forefront, SHE prefers to stay behind the scenes, focusing on creating beautiful music. Her humility and dedication have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers.
Pivotal Contributions and Awards
Obour, former president of MUSIGA, credited SHE with the success of his award-winning song ‘Konkontiba.’ Her input was pivotal in shaping the song, proving her influence extends beyond just vocals. SHE’s story is one of resilience and integrity; she often provided her services for free, believing that her contributions brought blessings. Her advice to women in the industry is to remain determined and reject any requests for sexual favors in exchange for opportunities.
Industry Recognition
Despite her extensive contributions, SHE’s work often went unrecognized until recently. DLFM 106.9 honored her for her incredible impact on the music industry, acknowledging her role in shaping the sounds of numerous A-list musicians. During the presentation, SHE expressed gratitude and reflected on the significance of her journey, emphasizing the importance of her creative contributions to the success of many beloved Ghanaian hits.
Legacy and Influence
SHE’s impact on Ghanaian music is immeasurable, with her contributions resonating through countless hits. As Jay Q aptly put it, “Ghana music wouldn’t be what it is now without some people like you [SHE].” Her legacy as a backing vocalist and creative force continues to inspire and uplift the Ghanaian music scene.
