Ghanaian dancehall sensation Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has recounted how legendary Hip-Life artiste Tinny played a pivotal role during his early struggles in the music industry.
Speaking on the Time with Hammer podcast on December 16, 2024, Shatta Wale shared how their paths first crossed in Labadi, where he was living with friends.
“Tinny met me in Labadi when I was on the streets,” he revealed. “He heard my song and came looking for me. Someone came to call me, saying Tinny was outside. When I stepped out, he was in his car, mentioning my name. I was shocked and asked myself, ‘Am I this important?'”
According to Shatta Wale, Tinny’s support marked a significant turning point in his career.
“He took me to the studio and became like a godfather to me,” Shatta Wale explained. “When I was broke, Tinny was the only one who gave me money. He’d give me $500, sometimes even $1000. He bought me things like a Blackberry and items from America. Back then, I used to smoke a lot, and he’d give me the money to get my stuff. Now that I have my own money, I barely smoke.”
Beyond financial support, Tinny stepped in during personal moments as well. Shatta Wale recalled, “When I met my first girl, I didn’t have anything, and Tinny had to give her money on my behalf. He took care of me and made me feel comfortable. To this day, I hold immense respect for him as one of the Ghanaian artistes who truly helped me survive.”
Expressing his gratitude, Shatta Wale added, “I still owe him. I often call to tell him I’m working hard so I can show my appreciation. I really want to do something significant for him.”
