From the Grave to greatness – The First 1 million

About Empty Grave

Empty Grave by D Pushkin and B-Wayne is a powerful declaration of resilience, spiritual strength, and triumph over adversity. It speaks to personal betrayal, societal judgment, and internal battles, but above all, it is about rising from the lowest points — symbolised by the Grave and emerging stronger, undefeated, and divinely guided. When Timtooni got the chance to bring the song to life, he chose a visual representation that defied odds and trends and beat the faux pas of what music videos should be like in this day and age.

Dr Pushkin and Timtooni

Through the Charades

Today, the façade of seeming success thrives in today’s music world. Artists continue to jump on bandwagons, hoping to catch listenership. However, the tried and tested phenomenon of musical success remains good music. In this regard, several opinions may arise. However, it doesn’t negate the impact of making music that can live in the moment, tomorrow, and always. Thus, this is where consciously making music that speaks to the soul is most significant. While artists who dabble in such may not be racking up the front pages, one thing is sure. They will always shine in ways unmatched by “gummy music” producers.

Music is not just another fun element of our “livity”. It is a tool that can guide society while entertaining them. Thus, many artists have used it as a tool for activism, education, and even tutoring. Music is embedded with culture and the diversity that makes life fun, not just “stern-faced”. More often than not, the disadvantaged excel in music that drives thoughts. But they sometimes lose it due to an obsession with the trendy “ootie and bling” norm. Finding a perfect balance between people who just wanna groove to some danceable tunes and people who listen for life and growth, therefore defines a fantastic artist.

Empty-Grave-By-Dr-Pushkin-x-B-Wayne-1

In this regard, Dr Pushkin is pushing boundaries by combining finesse in    pleasing the vibe fans as swell as the thinkers. While the former a switches switches tunes like batting an eye blink, the latter curates the finest playlists that can inspire, encourage, and empower. Same will always return to that playlist or artist.

Having hit a million views on YouTube, Dr. Pushkin’s song with B-Wayne, Empty Grave, is proof of the above theory. This song is an anthem of spiritual resistance, self-worth, and redemption. It speaks for anyone who has been counted out, misunderstood, or broken yet refuses to stay down. It’s not just about survival; it’s about victory with purpose.

Prioritising the Mind

Dr. Pushkin’s emergence onto the music scene a few years ago was characterised by provoking thoughts. When he released Questions, it marked a significant milestone in his quest. Song after song, he proved to be an entertainer who prioritises quality sound, creative beats, and carefully thought-through lyrics. Each Dr. Pushkin Song has an entertaining element; however, fans will always have something to think about.

Empty Grave is not just another song; it is accompanied by compelling visuals. Fans peer into the reality of the lyrics as lushly presented by the two artists and the video director.

Empty Grave’s success is not an isolated case of a “Gangnam Style.” It is a result of acknowledging a kind of listenership that can be likened to a cult following.

While priority is given to raunch and absurdity in the media space, making promotion a chore, identifying the appropriate channels can yield good results.

Empty Grave reminds all creatives that they don’t necessarily need trends to impact the music world. All they need is a pure heart and soul and a desire to impact society beyond the tapping of feet.

It is a bold anthem and film of survival, betrayal, and spiritual defiance. Merging Twi and English, the song walks through pain and abandonment yet finds power in divine strength and self-worth. With vivid imagery of rising from the dead—figuratively and spiritually—this is not just a comeback; it’s resurrection. Raw, reflective, and unshakably confident, this track is for anyone who’s been counted out but refuses to stay buried.

Core Ideas derived from this beautiful song

 Life is Full of Struggles:

Ɔbra mo nsɛm neɛ wɔ biara nnim – No one truly understands the complexities of life.

Spiritual Fortitude & Faith:

Prays daily for enemies.

Trust in Jah (God) for strength, not man.

Believes divine power fortifies and justifies him.

Betrayal and Pain:

We can be deceived and backstabbed by those close to us.

We can be left” in a graveyard of dreams”, symbolising crushed hopes and deep emotional wounds.

Rebirth and Defiance:

The “empty grave” is a metaphor for survival and resurrection — people would expect your downfall, but you must rise instead.

Confidence & Self-Worth:

We may need to reject external validation often.

Be self-certified and stay true to a path not about fame or clout.

Resistance to Systemic Oppression:

Calls out systems that exploit and suppress.

Takes pride in resistance and non-conformity.

Buried Alive – Empty grave

Crossing 1 Million Views – What it means

A historic wave is sweeping through the Northern Ghanaian music industry as the powerful and emotionally charged video for “Empty Grave” by Dr. Pushkin featuring B-Wayne, directed by visionary filmmaker Timtooni, has officially crossed 1 million views on YouTube.

This milestone marks a turning point for the artists involved and Northern Ghanaian music as a whole — breaking boundaries, setting records, and amplifying voices that have long deserved the spotlight. Here’s why this moment is truly monumental:

1. Only the 2nd Video in Northern Ghanaian Music History to Reach 1 Million Views

Until now, the only music video from Northern Ghana to achieve this feat was “Total Cheat” by Fancy Gadam featuring Sarkodie. “Empty Grave now proudly joins that elite list—a rare and celebrated accomplishment.

2. Dr. Pushkin is the First Northern Ghanaian Rapper to Reach 1 Million Views

While Fancy Gadam is known for his Afropop sound, this milestone crowns Dr. Pushkin as the first rapper from Northern Ghana to hit 1 million views on a single video. This is a triumph for hip-hop culture in a region known more for melodic styles.

3. First Conscious Song from Northern Ghana to Hit 1 Million

In an era dominated by party anthems and commercial hits, “Empty Grave” dares to be different. Rooted in thought-provoking lyricism and social reflection, it’s the first conscious song from the North to cross this digital milestone, showing that message-driven music has the power to resonate widely.

4. The Fastest Northern Ghanaian Song to Hit 1 Million

Where other regional hits took years to gain traction, “Empty Grave” has skyrocketed to 1 million views in less than five months, making it the fastest-growing music video ever from Northern Ghana. For context, “Total Cheat” reached 1.5 million views over seven years.

5. A Million Views Without Industry Co-Signs or Southern Features

Unlike many breakout songs that rely on endorsements or collaborations with well-known Southern Ghanaian artists, “Empty Grave” is a purely Northern creation. Dr. Pushkin and B-Wayne are independent, and without any industry co-signs or significant label push, this achievement speaks volumes about the strength of community support and grassroots momentum.

With Fancy GGadam’s “Kom” nearing the 1 million mark (currently at 998K), a new wave is clearly surging through the North. But “Empty Grave” stands tall — a beacon of authenticity, consciousness, and regional pride.

This is more than a milestone—it’s a message: the North has stories to tell, and the world is finally listening.

A-scene-from-Empty-Grave

Smock Rhythms is here. 1 New thesavannaonline concept

Smock Rhythms – your weekly journey through the vibrant sounds of Northern Ghana.

Smock Rhythms is your weekly journey through the vibrant sounds of Northern Ghana. Every weekend, we handpick a fresh selection of tracks from the heart of Northern Ghana. From traditional rhythms to modern beats, this playlist is designed to keep your weekend energised and full of life. Each track is carefully numbered and linked in our blog post to ensure smooth listening and avoid copyright issues. Vibe with the music, explore new genres, and let thesavanna weekend pulse be your go-to soundtrack for every weekend!

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Is this a list of New releases?

No. Smock Rhythms is not limited to new releases. It is a selection of some of the finest songs we hear from artists in the North of Ghana. Language and genre are not primary determiners. Our discretion is absolutely down to the quality of the sound, the song’s universal appeal, and the vocal performance. The listed songs are not based on a hierarchy.

Is this about the Northern Region?

No. thesavannaonline acknowledges the battle with appreciating the varied regions and ethnicities of Northern Ghana. However, the North of Ghana refers to the three traditional regions of the Upper East, Upper West, and Upper East Region. This implies that we now cover the Upper West, Upper East, Northern, North East, and Savanna regions.

Which artists or regions are a priority?

We do not prioritise any region or set of artists. We curate based on what we can access or see online across multiple platforms. However, we invite artists and their management to share links with us whenever they have some releases. It is not a guarantee that we will feature it on a particular list. However, it adds to the rich database we would be cutting. At 1 point or the other, we may feature some of the songs.

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What do we seek to achieve?

We seek to augment the selection process of Deejays and show hosts for their playlists. We also believe music lovers can add songs to their own playlists through these weekly updates. It becomes a win-win for fans and artists.

When does Smock Rhythms begin?

Our first list goes out on May 9, 2025. It will consist of a blog post and an audiovisual representation of the selections.

We anticipate that this initiative will be embraced, and once again, www.thesavannaonline.com will highlight the music from Northern Ghana. thesavanna jam of the week will also make a return to radio soon.

You can reach www.thesavannaonline.com via svmediagh@gmail.com or 0244918560 / 0203100346

IsRahim readies “Back in White” album with Track list and concert

Israhim’s Back In White Album

Northern Ghana’s music sensation, IsRahim, has unveiled the tracklist for his second studio album, Back In White. The announcement has sparked a wave of excitement as fans eagerly await the release of this highly anticipated album.

Back-In-White—Israhim(tracklist)

The album features 16 powerful tracks. A blend of Afrobeat, Highlife, and contemporary sounds. Complemented by IsRahim’s signature soulful voice. It also boasts a star-studded lineup, including collaborations with Fancy Gadam, Maccasio, Strongman, Nanky, Ceekay, Ayra Orb, and more. Each track brings something unique, creating a vibrant and diverse listening experience.

From “Packaging” featuring David AJ to the fun “Body No Be Firewood” with Ceekay and the heartfelt “Mama” featuring Fancy Gadam, Back In White is packed with songs that showcase IsRahim’s growth and versatility as an artist. Tracks like “Million Dollar” with Ayra Orb, “Leader,” “Photocopy,” “Pain,” and “Beauty” dive deep into relatable and emotional storytelling.

Back-In-White—Israhim-(Credits)

The Concert

To celebrate the release, IsRahim will host an epic album launch concert on May 24, 2025, at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium. The event is expected to be one of the biggest of the year, bringing fans, fellow artists, and music lovers together. With IsRahim’s electrifying stage presence, this concert promises to be an unforgettable night filled with high energy and fantastic music.

Bolgatanga-based vocalist to wow audience in the USA

Bolgatanga’s-Ataman-Nikita

Fine Art in Bolgatanga

Bolgatanga is the capital of the Upper East Region of Ghana, located near the border with Burkina Faso. It is a bustling commercial and cultural hub known for its vibrant local traditions, including the production of handwoven baskets, leather works, indigenous traditional smocks, which are famous for their quality and craftsmanship. Bolgatanga can also boast of notable attractions like the Tongo Hills etc. However, Bolgatanga is gaining notoriety as that fine mix of modernity and tradition. The same transcends into the musical culture of the fast-developing town.

With its wide array of musicians of varied influences, it has become a major source of impeccable talent. One such enigmatic artiste is Ataman Nikita. Only premiering his musical career in 2024, he has proven to be a vocal – powerhouse of unmatched quality. With a slight peculiarity to his sound, he’s honed the skill of infecting every song with that uniqueness. Thus, on each song, he stands out.

Ataman-Nikita—Enigma

With the above as Hindsight, Ataman Nikita has travelled to the US of A to exhibit that unique sound. He will be hitting the SXSW Music Festival stage with Dr Pushkin, CJ Biggerman, Quata Budukusu, Aza The Messenger, Aggie, Wyldthang and Dj Selecta Rah for his first musical performance outside of Ghana. Performing at the SXSW Music Festival is one of the few opportunities’ talents get to interact with the other creatives, press from across the world, and music executives, as well as influencers. A performance at this event is a rare gem in the bag.

Ghanaian Artistes Scheduled for SXSW Music Festival 2025

Through the years, Ghana has featured on the SXSW Musical stage, and artists like Stonebwoy and Efya have all taken turns to thrill the gathering of international audiences at this novel event. However, in 2025, Ghanaian musicians set to make an impression and raise Ghana’s musical flag are Dr. Pushkin, Ataman Nikita, CJ Biggerman, Quata Budukusu, Nektunez, and Darko Vibes. With this impressive line-up, Ghana is showing up to wow the crowd.

Ataman Nikita will join Dr Pushkin, CJ Biggerman, and Quata Budukusu, as well as American musicians Aggie, Aza The Messenger, Selecta Rah, and Wyldthang for what is expected to be the wildest musical exhibition to ever happen on the SXSW Musical stage.  

About the SXSW Music Festival.

The SXSW (South by Southwest) Music Festival is an annual event held in Austin, Texas that has become one of the largest and most influential music festivals in the world. It spans several days and features thousands of artists from diverse genres, including rock, hip-hop, indie, electronic, and more. SXSW not only offers live performances at venues across the city but also serves as a platform for music industry professionals to network, showcase new talent, and attend conferences on the latest trends in the music business. Known for its mix of up-and-coming acts and established artists, SXSW has become a key event for both fans and industry insiders, shaping the future of music and entertainment.

When is Bolgatanga representing at the SXSW Music Festival?

In all certainties, Ataman Nikita is bringing that Bolgatanga vibe to SXSW this year. Yes, on the 12th of March 2025, he will be taking the international hip-hop stage at the Cuato Gato venue at 11 pm alongside the artists mentioned above to make a statement through impressive vocals and bars unmatched over killer beats. The international Hip Hop stage of SXSW 2025 is a soiree of the best performers. Right after the Bolgatanga dominated performance, Nigeria’s MI Abaga will be next on stage. Its operation impresses or be depressed, and Bolgatanga has an impression of a chokehold.

Rock on Champ.

Imagine Dr Pushkin and MI Abaga on one stage

The SXSW Music Festival 2025 is here again. Few Ghanaian artists are making efforts to thrill festival audiences. Most are obsessed with their events while failing to realize the golden opportunities of showcasing at events like the SXSW Music Festival. With no cursory search, assumptions abound. But a critical look will reveal ushering into an immersive world of networking and opportunities. That is one of the gains Dr. Pushkin has always sought to drive at every event venue he’s honoured to be at. The fantastic musician shares the same stage as Nigerian superstar MI Abaga this year.

From curating amazing tunes in the last two years, Dr Pushkin of Isolirium Entertainment goes back to SXSW Music Festival 2025. In 2023, Dr Pushkin was at SXSW with Aggie and Budukusu to thrill music lovers. This year, he returns with new bangers and fresh energy to wow the crowds that patronize the event.

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What is SXSW (South by Southwest)

SXSW, sometimes referred to as South-by-SouthWest, is an annual Arts and Culture Festival in Austin, Texas. It is a gathering of greats from within technology, film and television, music, and comedy. The Key highlights of this novelty are the conferences and showcasing of varied arts and culture elements such as music, films, comedy, etc.

As a festival, it has served as a major thought changer and launchpad for many creatives. The standout factor for this enigmatic event is the fact that it draws participants and creatives from across the world. Most of these creatives see SXSW as an opportunity to network, perform, and also expose their craft and thoughts to the several thousands who descend on the American City.

Some Performers slated for SXSW Music Festival 2025

From art writers to documentary filmmakers and industry executives to regular art enthusiasts, the event is often flooded with many.

For this article, the concentration is on the music-showcasing aspect of SXSW Music Festival 2025. Notable artists who have graced this world-class event include Billie Eilish, J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, Cardi B, Wiz Khalifa, Lil Wayne, Jay Z, 50 Cent, Dua Lipa, Chance the Rapper, Megan Thee Stallion, James Blunt, legendary Slick Rick, and several other top-tier artists with incredible talent.

African artists who have performed at SXSW in the past

Artistes from Africa who have also showcased their amazing talent at SXSW in the past include Dr Pushkin, Camidoh, Bisa Kdei, Sinkane, Cassper Nyovest, Simi, Black Sherif, Juls,  Davido, Maleek Berry, Jojo Abot, Adenkule Gold, Efya, Mayorkun, Victoria Kimani, AKA, Diamond Platinum, Reekado Banks, Teni, Wire, and several others.

Dr Pushkin , AGGIe, and Budukusu performing

Dr Pushkin to Represent Ghana at SXSW – Date

SXSW Music Festival 2025 would feature an impressive list of performers. Dr Pushkin will be joined by CJ BiggermanQuata BudukusuAza The MessengerAggieWyldthang, and Dj Selecta Rah. After the performance, MI Abaga will mount the stage to ring the Nigerian energy. Dr Pushkin is not the only Ghanaian performer at this year’s event. Darko Vibes and Nektunez will also be at SXSW 2025. However, they are billed to perform on a different stage. Dr Pushkin’s performance will occur at 11 pm on March 2025 at the Cuato Gato venue in Austin, Texas.

Dr-Pushkin is ready for SXSW Music Festival 2025

Benefits of Showcasing at SXSW Music Festival 2025

The benefits that come with participating in SXSW Music Festival 2025 are enormous. They include the following:

Exposure: You’ll reach a diverse audience, including music industry professionals, fans, and other artists.

Networking: It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with industry insiders, including labels, agents, and promoters.

Performance Opportunities: Playing at SXSW can lead to additional gigs and tours, as many talent scouts are on the lookout for new acts.

Media Attention: The festival attracts significant press coverage, which can lead to interviews, reviews, and increased visibility.

Learning: Attending panels and workshops can provide valuable insights into the music industry, helping you to hone your craft and navigate your career.

Community: You’ll be part of a vibrant community of musicians and artists, which can foster collaboration and support.

Potential for Discovery: Many artists have gained major followings after being discovered at SXSW, making it a valuable platform for launching your career.

“South by Southwest (SXSW) is an annual conglomeration of parallel film, interactive media, and music festivals and conferences organized jointly that take place in mid-March in Austin, Texas. It began in 1987 and has continued growing in both scope and size every year. In 2017, the conference lasted for 10 days, with the interactive track lasting for five days, music for seven days, and film for nine days. “…Wikipedia

Dr Pushkin Recently released a song with one of Ghana’s finest multi-talented musicians Gingsen. The song titled No Easy also features the incredible King Ayisoba. Click the link below to access the song.

https://music.isolirium.com/noeasy

Lyrics to Ataman Ninikita’s Love Ballad

Beauty Queen is Ataman Nikita‘s latest; it is also his first solo song.

Check out the lyrics below.

Beauty Queen Lyrics

Chorus

She’s a beauty queen.
Thats what they call her
She’s a super star
And I’m her lover

She’s a beauty queen
Bow down before her
She’s a super star
That’s why I love her

Verse

Biggest hall, centre stage.
She is strutting her tail.
She was born for the fame.
Yeah, she’s made for the game.

Oh, she loves the attention.
And the toll that it takes.
She will smile all the way.
Cause there’s pictures to take.

Chorus

She’s a beauty queen.
Thats what they call her
She’s a super star
And I’m her lover

She’s a beauty queen
Bow down before her
She’s a super star
That’s why I love her

Hook

I think that what she wants she got it
Nothing in her way
The way she moves it is amazing
I have got to say

I think that what she wants she got it
Nothing in her way
The way she moves it is amazing
I have got to say

Chorus

She’s a beauty queen.
Thats what they call her
She’s a super star
And I’m her lover

She’s a beauty queen
Bow down before her
She’s a super star
That’s why I love her

Hook

I think that what she wants she got it
Nothing in her way
The way she moves it is amazing
I have got to say

I think that what she wants she got it
Nothing in her way
The way she moves it is amazing
I have got to say

All you need to know about the extraordinary Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games 2024 edition

When is the Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games event?

This year’s Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games will come off on Saturday 7th of September 2024, at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra. The gates will open at 8 am and close at 5 pm for all revelers, cultural enthusiasts, and especially people from the two ethnic groups. However, Adults will pay 15GHS, while children pay 5GHS for entry.

Components of the Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games 2024

The Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games is a cultural soiree born of a cordial relationship between two ethnic groups. It is an event which promises to be yet another fun-filled edition. With participants from across the Greater Accra Region and beyond, it remains that rare gathering of people from the two unique ethnicities.

You may be interested: Do you know there is a mobile App that translates Gurune (Frafra) to several languages?

Characteristic of previous editions, the one-day program is packed with exciting activities for people of different ages. Notable activities for the day include volleyball, sack race, tug of peace, and the ultimate decider, football. Each activity will have a Men and Women edition.

On the cultural side, the Dagaaba and Frafra friendly games will feature a heavy dose of cultural display. The display will span musical performances, traditional drumming and dance sessions, and a variety of traditional cuisines from the Dagaaba and Frafra groups. There will also be an exhibition of artifacts and regalia peculiar to the two groups. Notable among the artifacts will be Smocks, the xylophone, and other items made of leather and smock material.

The bond between the two ethnic groups.

The bond between the two ethnic groups is said to be borne of the fact that they have one ancestry. However, due to migration, one group moved to the Upper West Region of Ghana and the other to the Upper East. There is also a story of two brothers going on a journey; at a point, hunger sets in, and the only choice is to make a meal of their companion dog.

A disagreement, however, ensued over when to boil or roast the meat; they eventually divided the carcass into two, leaving the head for later. Somehow, the head went missing. That quest to find the head led to the cordiality they currently enjoy as two ethnic groups. Also, the loss of the head created a teasing situation which has led to this cordiality. The Dagaaba and Frafra are believed to represent either of the brothers who shared the dog-meat.

Who are the Dagaaba and Frafra?

The Dagaaba are sometimes referred to as the Dagaba. They are an ethnic group in the Upper West Region of Ghana. They are mainly from Nandom and Lawra districts. The Dagaaba are a part of the Mole-Dagbani cluster of ethnic groups. Dagaare is the language spoken by the Dagaabas.

The Frafra are also an ethnic group from the Upper East Region of Ghana. However, some communities are extending into Burkina Faso. They speak Gurune, sometimes referred to as Frafra. Notable towns include Bolgatanga, Bongo, Tongo, and several others.

The two ethnic groups are believed to have come from one ancestor.

The ultimate prize

Through the years, the Dagaaba – Frafra friendly games have had a unique prize on the event. The ultimate winner is always given a Puppy. The prize has sparked several controversies amongst animal lovers and cultural enthusiasts. While Animal rights activists think that using a puppy as a trophy is barbaric, cultural enthusiasts advocate tolerance for different cultural practices. However, since the prize does not break any laws, it is safe to say sentiments haven’t succeeded in chastising this age-long tradition of a puppy prize at this novel event.

The Dagaaba – Frafra Friendly games have become a mainstay for most indigenes of the two ethnic groups in Accra. It presents a unique opportunity to enjoy the culture and fraternize with relatives. It also enhances the cordial relationship the two ethnicities have enjoyed for centuries. Because these two groups are from different regions in Ghana, the solidified friendship is exemplary.

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