M.anifest Shifts Focus, Says Rap Beef No Longer a Priority

Veteran Ghanaian rapper M.anifest has offered a reflective perspective on rap rivalry, saying he is no longer driven by “rap beef” as a central element of his music career, pointing instead to growth, maturity, and increased responsibility.

Speaking in an interview with broadcaster Kafui Dey on his show posted on X, the award-winning lyricist explained that his approach to rap competition has evolved significantly over the years.

He referenced his widely discussed lyrical exchange with fellow rapper Sarkodie on the 2016 record GodMC, describing it as a major moment that influenced how he now views competitive rap interactions. According to him, experiences like that shaped a shift in priorities as he progressed in his career.

M.anifest noted that although hip-hop culture continues to thrive on lyrical sparring and sharp wordplay, his current phase in music comes with a more measured outlook. He emphasized that he still values lyrical excellence but is less inclined toward full-scale confrontational exchanges.

“We are older now, so one is still fierce with the pen, but you take on a different role. It would take a lot for somebody to pull me into that realm of things, outside of just regular braggadocio or one or two shots,” he said.

He further explained that any serious lyrical confrontation today would require deeper reflection, especially considering the influence artists now have beyond music, particularly among younger audiences and emerging creatives.

“I’ve never been a battle rapper. I was just someone who could engage that way on records. It’s still possible, but that time has largely passed. Never say never,” he added.

The rapper also highlighted that any future participation in rap exchanges would be shaped more by principle and context rather than ego-driven rivalry, noting that his current outlook is influenced by his roles as a father and an industry figure.

“The way I am, and because I’m for the culture, I haven’t ruled it out completely. It’s still a possibility, but it might look different now because times have changed. We are becoming more responsible human beings,” he said.

His remarks come amid ongoing discussions in Ghana’s hip-hop space about how established artists navigate competition, legacy, and evolving expectations within the genre, where lyrical exchanges still surface occasionally across records and social media spaces.