Ghanaian rapper Kwesi Arthur’s debut album, Son of Jacob, has made a surprising return to the top 10 on the Ghana Apple Music charts, reaching #9 for the first time in over a year. The nearly four-year-old album’s resurgence comes amid a heated public dispute between Arthur and his former label, Ground Up Chale.
The controversy escalated on January 21, 2026, when Kwesi Arthur accused Ground Up Chale and its CEO, Glen Boateng, of extortion and harassment. According to the rapper, the label demanded $150,000 for him to use his own images in promoting his latest independent project, Redemption Valley. Arthur claimed that Ground Up Chale still asserts ownership over his music, brand, and likeness dating back to 2016, despite having no affiliation with the label since Son of Jacob’s release. He also alleged that he received no earnings from his time with the label and has faced repeated threats affecting his mental wellbeing.
Ground Up Chale, the collective that launched Arthur’s career in 2017, has been home to several Ghanaian talents, including Yung C, Twitch 4EVA, Quamina MP, and Kofi Mole. While Kwesi Arthur was widely regarded as the label’s flagship artist, other key figures like producer Kayso played pivotal roles in shaping the label’s signature sound.
In response to the allegations, Ground Up Chale’s lawyer, Jonathan K. Amable, denied claims of threats or intimidation. He stated that Arthur’s original contract was a four-year deal with a 60-40 revenue split in favor of the label, later renewed with a 50-50 split. Amable added that Arthur prematurely exited the deal and independently secured $118,712 (approximately GH¢1.42 million) from distributor Platoon for Son of Jacob, while also receiving £91,370 in royalties—contradicting the rapper’s claims of zero earnings. The lawyer emphasized that the label’s actions were limited to protecting intellectual property and not intended to block Arthur’s career.
Arthur’s father, Samuel Danso Arthur, weighed in publicly, confirming the contract details while expressing concern for his son’s safety. He also called on legal channels for resolution rather than social media drama, stating his willingness to settle any debts to free his son from the label’s constraints.
Industry peers have also chimed in. Rapper Medikal criticized Ground Up Chale for alleged manipulation, while Kwaw Kese initiated a GoFundMe to cover the disputed $150,000, which Arthur later distanced himself from. Fans have rallied around the rapper with hashtags like #FreeKwesiArthur trending online.
Despite the turmoil, Son of Jacob’s chart comeback underscores Kwesi Arthur’s enduring popularity. Released on April 22, 2022, the 10-track album features a mix of rap, Afrobeats, and introspective lyrics, including standout tracks like "Winning" featuring VIC MENSA and "Drama."
The ongoing dispute highlights broader issues in Ghana’s music industry, including contract transparency and artist rights. While neither side has indicated plans for formal legal action, fans hope the rapper can continue building his independent career without interference from past affiliations.
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