Ghanaian rapper and 2024 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) Most Popular Song of the Year winner, King Paluta, is celebrating a major milestone after his hit single “Aseda” was featured in this year’s 2024/2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
Taking to Facebook shortly after the exams concluded on Tuesday, the elated rapper shared his excitement, writing, “I’m popping champagne!” in response to the unexpected academic recognition of his work.
“Aseda”, which means “Thanksgiving” in Twi, blends powerful storytelling with heartfelt rap, touching on themes of gratitude through hardship, resilience amid poverty, and spiritual reflection. These messages appear to have resonated strongly with educators, earning the song a spot in one of the nation’s most important academic assessments.
According to reports, Question 4(c) of Section B in the Music and Creative Arts paper asked candidates to identify two major social issues highlighted in King Paluta’s “Aseda”—a track celebrated for its deep emotional resonance and cultural relevance.
Born Thomas Adjei Wireko, King Paluta has been a steady force in the Ghanaian music scene, rising from underground recognition to mainstream acclaim. His lyrical prowess in the Akan language—infused with cultural wisdom and street philosophy—has won him widespread admiration.
He first made waves with songs like “Aha Akye” and “Allegation”, but it was “Aseda” that propelled him into the national spotlight. In 2024, the song clinched the Most Popular Song of the Year award at the TGMA, a testament to his growing impact on Ghana’s music landscape.
Now, with his work being used as educational material, King Paluta’s influence is being felt not just in entertainment, but also in academia and social dialogue. His music, rooted in the everyday realities of Ghanaians, is now helping to shape classroom discussions on life, society, and values.
While his response was lighthearted, the moment is undeniably significant. For an artist whose lyrics give voice to everyday struggles and aspirations, seeing “Aseda” immortalized in a national exam is a powerful reminder of music’s evolving role in Ghanaian education and culture.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem