Akua Naru

Akua Naru

Akua Naru is a hip hop artist from New Haven, United States. She later lives and works in Cologne, Germany, and her music reflects a path that includes time in Philadelphia, China and Ghana, among other places. Her writing and perspective are shaped by these experiences, and her work is associated with conscious and underground hip hop.

Career and releases

Naru’s debut album, The Journey Aflame, establishes her on the hip hop scene. The album receives attention in several countries and is described by critics from New York to Moscow as an important hip hop release. A single from the album, The World Is Listening, produced by Jr & Ph7, reaches number one on the US college radio charts.

The album also features production from a number of German hip hop producers, including Drumkidz, Jr & Ph7 and 7inch. This collaboration helps place the record within a wider transatlantic hip hop context.

Performance

Naru performs either with Digflo, her six-piece band, or in solo shows with a DJ. Her live reputation centres on strong audience engagement and energetic performances.

Style and significance

She is presented as a female wordsmith whose work draws on soul music and the tradition of women in hip hop. Her debut release and performances position her as a notable voice in contemporary hip hop.