Ghanaian musician Joshua Kojo Ampah, popularly known as Keche Joshua, has shared rare insights into his personal life, music career, and the inner workings of the award-winning music duo Keche.
Speaking in a one-on-one interview with host Abena Ghana on The Journey Show on Adom TV, the musician addressed public perceptions about his personality, revealing that while many see him as calm, the demands of the music industry often require a more assertive approach.
“People say it a lot that I am very calm, but our job makes you aggressive. If you are too timid, you won’t be able to do it,” he explained.
Joshua emphasized that fans often misunderstand musicians based on their public image, noting that those who interact with him personally discover a different side of him. He also spoke about his relationship with his music partner, Andrew, admitting that disagreements are inevitable.
“Behind the scenes, we do fight sometimes—even for months we are not on good terms—but we keep that out of the public domain. We always put the group first,” he revealed.
According to him, their commitment to prioritizing the group has helped Keche remain strong over the years, serving as an example that music groups can survive and thrive in Ghana’s entertainment industry.
Reflecting on their beginnings, Joshua described their formation as unplanned but divinely guided. After relocating to Tema following his mother’s passing, he reconnected with Andrew during rap battles. What started as a casual collaboration—him singing on Andrew’s track and Andrew rapping on his—eventually evolved into the Keche brand, with the help of renowned producer Kaywa.
Joshua also opened up about his difficult upbringing. He revealed that he grew up without a father figure, as his father, a seaman, was mostly absent, and his mother died when he was young. As the eldest child, he had to drop out of school in secondary school to support his siblings, working as a driver’s mate and later as a taxi driver.
Despite these hardships, his passion for music grew from his early days as a footballer, where he often led teammates in singing. “I realized people were following my singing more, and that motivated me to take it seriously,” he said.
On the subject of fame, Joshua cautioned against living a fake lifestyle, criticizing the culture of showmanship among some celebrities. “I hate to fake. I don’t show what I don’t have. I know most stars who rent cars just to show off,” he stated.
He also advised young people to resist societal pressure and remain authentic. “The pressure from fans will disappear when you go down. So be yourself—don’t fake.”
The musician highlighted the duo’s ambition to become the biggest music group in Africa, stressing that their shared vision keeps them united. “Until we achieve that goal, nothing can break us,” he affirmed.
Joshua further touched on lessons learned within the industry, referencing how some ventures fail due to overexposure, citing the example of Sarkodie’s Sarkcess brand. He emphasized the importance of privacy and strategic silence in business.
Beyond music, he expressed compassion for underprivileged children, recalling his own struggles. “I hate to see kids on the street. Sometimes I cry because I have been there before. If I have the power, I will change their destiny,” he said emotionally.
He also weighed in on spirituality in music, advising against forcing a transition into gospel music without genuine calling, referencing Ofori Amponsah’s experience.
Keche Joshua concluded by underscoring the importance of giving back to society, noting that entertaining people and bringing them joy is, in itself, a form of ministry.
The interview offered a rare glimpse into the life of the musician, highlighting resilience, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to success.
