Ay Poyoo

Emmanuel Yeboah (born 5 June 2000), known professionally as AY Poyoo, is a Ghanaian rapper and comedian. AY Poyoo gained international attention when BBC News Africa profiled him after his single GOAT (Aponkye) received widespread coverage.

Early life

AY Poyoo was born on 5 June 2000 in Ghana. He grew up in a low-income household with his mother after his father left the family. Although he performed well in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), he enrolled in a technical school to study auto mechanics because of financial constraints.

Career

AY Poyoo began his music career in 2019 and gained prominence in 2020 when the music video for his debut single GOAT went viral. Later in 2020, American rapper Snoop Dogg mentioned AY Poyoo during a livestream hosted by comedian Michael Blackson.

In July 2020, he announced a planned collaboration with South African musician Sho Madjozi which she later confirmed. And in May 2023, Poyoo appeared at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards red carpet with a goat as a reference to his breakout single.

In November 2023, he signed with Nigerian label Tree Money Yard Empire and relocated to Nigeria to develop his skills in production, songwriting and audio engineering.

Musical style

AY Poyoo is known for an eccentric performance style that combines humorous lyrics with energetic delivery, characteristic of African hip hop.

Discography

Extended plays

Year Title Notes Ref(s) 2024 The Rejected Stone Debut EP TBD Grass to Grace Announced

Selected singles Year Title Collaboration Ref(s) 2020 "GOAT (Aponkye)" 2020 "Alcoholics" feat. Wanlov the Kubolor 2020 "My Lady" with Patapaa 2020 "Ghetto Rules" feat. Van Choga 2022 "Kama" feat. Kudjoe Daze 2022 "GOAT (Aponkye Remix)" feat. Van Choga, Show Yoh & Big Xhosa 2023 "Ama Piano" feat. Sister Deborah 2020 "Swimming Pool" 2024 "Only Me"

Awards Year Award Category Result Ref(s) 2020 YouTube Creator Award Silver Play Button Won