As 2024 draws to a close, Ghana’s most innovative and daring artist, Stonebwoy, takes to social media to drop an exciting announcement: his sixth studio album, Up and Runnin6, is officially out.
stonebwoy UP & RUNNIN6 – ALBUM OUT NOW! ♨️
The 13-track album has already drawn the attention of listeners worldwide, boasting collaborations with an impressive array of artists, including Duncan Mighty, Spice, Blvk H3ro, and many more. Known for his dynamic fusion of Afro-dancehall, reggae, and Afrobeat, Stonebwoy has crafted an album that doesn’t just showcase his technical skill but also dives into the stories, struggles, and triumphs that have defined his journey.
A Unique Blend of Afro-Dancehall and Reggae
One of the album’s defining qualities is its seamless blend of Afrobeat rhythms with dancehall and reggae influences, creating a sound that feels both familiar and refreshingly original. This genre fusion has sparked excitement among fans, who praise Stonebwoy’s ability to bring such variety to his music without losing his signature style. “Jejereje,” a standout track, has already captured widespread attention. With its lively beat and unforgettable hook, the song quickly went viral, and its music video amassed over a million views in just two weeks.
Tracing Stonebwoy’s Journey to Up and Runnin6
Meanwhile, Up and Runnin6 did not come out of nowhere. It is the product of years of growth and persistence. Stonebwoy first emerged in Ghana’s music scene back in his school days, honing his skills and building his reputation track by track. Over time, he transformed from a young hopeful artist into one of Africa’s most celebrated artists, known for his music and the authenticity he brings to every performance.
His previous album, 5th Dimension, marked a significant milestone, debuting at No. 8 on the Billboard Reggae Albums Chart and earning a nomination for Album of the Year at the 2024 3Music Awards. Stonebwoy took 5th Dimension on tour across Europe and the UK, with sold-out shows that reflected his growing international fanbase. The success of that album both in terms of critical acclaim and fan enthusiasm paved the way for Up and Runnin6, setting a high bar that Stonebwoy aimed to surpass.
Behind the Album: Insights from Stonebwoy’s Interview
In a candid interview with Jamaican media personality Ramona Samuels, Stonebwoy opened up about the inspiration behind Up and Runnin6, offering a glimpse into the thought process that shaped each track. He shared that the album was a personal project, a reflection of his journey and growth as an artist. While awards and accolades are always rewarding, Stonebwoy said this album was made with one primary focus: his fans.
“The goal wasn’t to chase awards—it was to give something meaningful to those who’ve supported me from day one,” he explained.
This perspective is mirrored in the album’s diverse tracklist, which moves from introspective pieces like “Psalm 23” to vibrant, crowd-pleasers like “Geography.”
The album’s official launch was a celebration in itself, held at Alora Beach Resort. Fans and fellow celebrities came out in their numbers to celebrate the album’s release, turning the launch into a night to remember. Stonebwoy’s live performance of “Shine” lit up the event, with the crowd singing along to every word, their energy feeding into his own. The tracklist, which includes gems like “Memories” featuring Ir Sais and the upbeat “Jiggle & Whine” with Spice, reflects Stonebwoy’s passion for collaboration and genre-blending. Each featured artist brings a fresh sound and unique vibe, making the album feel like a melting pot of influences that span continents while remaining rooted in West African rhythms and stories.
Up and Runnin6 feels like a journey. Stonebwoy invites listeners to walk with him through the highs and lows of his career, It is not about chasing trends or replicating past success; it is about capturing the essence of his experiences and growth, unfiltered.
