Adjei Nelson Otumfour, popularly known as AJ Nelson, is a prominent artist and social advocate from Ghana.
He gained fame with popular tracks such as “Same Girl,” “Faith,” and “Power to the People.” Notably, he was the first Ghanaian musician to rap in the Bono language.
In 2015, AJ Nelson initiated a significant campaign in Ghana aimed at inspiring young people to speak out against corruption and conflicts in Africa, urging them to hold their leaders accountable.
This initiative garnered support from influential figures in Ghana, including Kofi Tsikata and Berla Mundi.
His song “Power to the People” became the third most downloaded Ghanaian hip-hop track on iTunes in November 2015, further establishing his reputation as a leading artist.
FACTS ABOUT AJ NELSON
- FULL NAME: Adjei Nelson Otumfor
- DATE OF BIRTH: May 5, 1985
- PLACE OF BIRTH: Accra, Ghana
- NATIONALITY: Ghanaian
- OCCUPATIONs: Rapper, Songwriter
- LABELs: Corna Rock Entertainment
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Born in Dormaa Ahenkro, Ghana, Nelson is the middle child in a family of seven. He began making music at the age of 14, showcasing his talent at high schools and local community events.
He attended Saint Dominic School and later studied Web and Graphic Design at IPMC College of Technology in Accra.
In 2009, AJ Nelson gained attention for his contribution to a song welcoming Barack Obama to Ghana.
He released several successful singles, including “Same Girl” and “Dream,” with “Faith” becoming a major hit in 2011.
In 2015, he launched “Power to the People,” featuring Wiyaala, which ranked third among Ghanaian hip-hop artists on iTunes.
CAREER
In 2019, he established his band, Band Afriq, and has since collaborated with artists from around the world, including Kesse, Jupiter, Epixode, and Edem.
AJ Nelson’s musical journey began in 2009 when he released a song welcoming Barack Obama to Ghana, which earned him recognition throughout Africa.
His first major hit, “Same Girl,” came out in 2010, followed by the successful tracks “Dream” in 2011 and “Faith,” featuring Jay Ghartey, which also became a hit that year.
In 2015, his song “Power to the People,” featuring Wiyaala and released under Corna Rock Entertainment, received positive acclaim and charted on iTunes.
Notably, he was the first Ghanaian rapper to form his own band, Band Afriq, in 2019.
AJ Nelson has toured and performed both in Ghana and internationally alongside prominent artists such as Kesse, Jupiter, and Edem.
He has graced prestigious events like the Afrobeat festival, sharing the stage with talents like Lauren Hill, Edem, EL, and M.anifest.
His dynamic performances at events such as the 4 Syte Music Video Awards, Ghana Fashion Awards, and the launch of Sarkodie’s Rapperholic album have captivated audiences.
He has also toured with Okyeame Kwame during the “OK in Your Zone” tour and participated in the launch of his “Clinic” album, demonstrating his versatility and star power in the music scene.
PERSONAL LIFE
Since 2015, AJ Nelson has been happily married to Salome Nelson Adjei, whose support and inspiration have been invaluable throughout his career.