Ghanaian dancehall artiste Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has shared the story of his second breakthrough, crediting legendary Hip-Life artiste Tinny for coming to his aid during difficult times.
Recalling the moment Tinny reached out to him, Shatta Wale said, “I was at home when someone told me Tinny was looking for me. Everyone had already gathered outside, and he was in his car calling my name. I was surprised and thought, ‘Am I really that important?’”
Shatta Wale recounted how Tinny’s involvement significantly changed the trajectory of his career.
“He took me to the studio and became like a godfather to me. Back when I was broke, Tinny was the only person who gave me money. He bought me a Blackberry when it was launched and brought me items from America. Sometimes, he gave me $500 or even $1,000, which I often used for smoking back then. But now that I have my own money, I hardly smoke,” Shatta Wale revealed.
Tinny’s generosity extended beyond money. “He made sure I was comfortable and even helped me when I started dating my first girlfriend. Tinny gave her money on my behalf because I couldn’t afford it at the time. When I think about Ghanaian artistes who helped me survive, Tinny tops the list, and I will always respect him for that,” he added.
Expressing his gratitude, Shatta Wale admitted that he still feels indebted to Tinny. “I still owe him and want to do more for him. I often call to let him know I’m working hard so I can properly show my appreciation,” he concluded.