Today we’d like to introduce you to Kwame.
Hi Kwame , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Kwame Nantwi in which I go underneath the Moniker “Tona” which the name is
derived from my distinct tone of voice, I am of Ghana (African) decent and come from harsh conditions. I
pursue and like to create music that is politically motivated to reflect my upbringing but also shed light
on touchy subjects with my art. I stand for equality and freedom most Importantly. I have been curating art & music for about 15 years now and Community and building infrastructure in it has always been important to me, I am
very influenced by my cultural city of Scarborough, Canada and hope to inspire people to dream unconventionally. I am at a place now in my career where it’s important I keep going and release music in this hyper content climate where I myself have evolved into the artist you see today.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been anywhere near a smooth road truthfully. Compromising what you stand for integrity wise has been a huge one along, balancing art and survival, gatekeeping, staying motivated, and fighting against trends. Integrity means saying “no” to certain deals, shows, or features that don’t align with your values. Fans also don’t see the behind-the-scenes battles. They may interpret your independence as “not making it,” when in reality you’re choosing authenticity over exploitation.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Mc/artist/producer/art director from out the city of Scarborough Ontario, Canada. Most from the outside looking into Canada just hear Toronto and assume that is all Canada is comprised of, but there are a lot of pockets tucked away where the real culture is sustaining the best music on the planet. I am most known for my versatility and flow. You know it’s me when you hear it due to the distinct Tone of voice I have hence the name Tona. My ability to switch between styles (boom bap, trap, soulful beats, even jazz or live instrumentation) while keeping your voice and message consistent.
Impact & Inspiration which mean being recognized as the artist who motivates people to keep pushing, even through pain, setbacks, or being counted out. Legacy building is another thing I stress. Not just making songs, but crafting projects with meaning that stand the test of time, where people can revisit your work years later and still feel it.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
EverythingOshauN deserves a lot of credit. He is the reason I am doing this interview right now, off of his recommendation. Incredible artist and hommie. I have a collective called “The Freedom Writers” that is comprised of; Frankie Payne, Adam Bomb, Theo3, Sproxx and myself which they deserve all the credit in the world for building some important pillars in the music of Canada and still till this day remaining incredibly sharp and consistent.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/bigtona
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bigtona26/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BigTona/featured?view_as=subscriber
- Soundcloud: https://www.soundcloud.com/bigtona
Image Credits
Brilynn Ferguson
JoAnne
Crystal Fhang
