Ghanaian artist Abrantie Simms joins forces with Ess on Finding My Rhythm EP 1, a four-track project that brings together contemporary Afrobeats, Soul, Afropop, Dancehall and Hip-Hop while drawing inspiration from the storytelling and melodic traditions of Highlife. Built around the chemistry between the two artists, the EP explores ambition, relationships, personal growth and the evolving sound of Ghanaian music.
At the heart of the project is the connection between Abrantie and Ess. Abrantie’s grounded Ghanaian sensibility meets Ess’s soulful instincts and expressive vocals, creating a collaboration that feels natural and complementary. Rather than simply sharing the spotlight, the two artists bring different perspectives together, allowing their individual strengths to shape a cohesive musical journey.
Across its four tracks, Finding My Rhythm EP 1 reveals different sides of that journey. “Adwuma Wura” opens with a sense of purpose and ambition, while “Kanea” explores the warmth of friendship, love and meaningful relationships. “Way You Move,” featuring $pacely, introduces a more infectious and playful energy, and “Testing Me (So Electric)” closes the project with a soulful, genre-blending sound that reflects the excitement and uncertainty of personal growth.
The EP’s connection to Highlife is central to its identity. Rather than attempting to recreate an older Ghanaian sound, Abrantie and Ess draw on the genre’s enduring qualities, including melody, storytelling, emotional honesty, collaboration and community. These elements find new expression through contemporary production, demonstrating how Ghanaian musical traditions can evolve while remaining culturally grounded. Additional appearances from Rie Osei, Marince Omario and $pacely further strengthen the project’s collaborative spirit.
More than a collection of four songs, Finding My Rhythm EP 1 reflects a generation of artists embracing contemporary sounds without abandoning their cultural roots. The release also forms part of The High-Life Collective’s wider vision of celebrating Ghanaian music through music videos, live experiences, editorial storytelling and cultural campaigns.
With Abrantie Simms and Ess at its centre, Finding My Rhythm EP 1 presents Highlife as a living tradition rather than a sound confined to the past. By bringing together different voices, genres and perspectives, the project offers a fresh expression of Ghanaian musical identity while helping shape its next chapter.