Stonebwoy - The Ultimate Class Act
Livingstone Etse Satekla – better known as Stonebwoy – is one of Africa’s biggest dancehall and reggae artists. With a career in music that spans more than a decade, he is a massive figure on West Africa’s music scene. Lethabo Nxumalo catches up with the Ghanaian megastar to discuss the connection between his music and his style.
Apart from being lauded for his timeless hits like ‘Therapy’, ‘Activate’ and ‘More of You’, and being the recipient of two Billboard plaques for his features on other albums, Stonebwoy is also well known for his fashion choices. He is renowned for rocking classic sneakers with a casual look, but when he’s on stage or walking the red carpet he takes the style stakes up a notch, always representing his Ghanaian roots, as seen at various music awards over the years, including the Vodacom Ghana Music Awards (VGMAs) 2018 where he and his wife, Dr Louisa Satekla, were voted Best Dressed Couple. Stonebwoy delivers iconic looks time and again, which has helped to cement his status as a bonafide style savant.
Do you remember your first introduction to fashion?
How has your aesthetic represented your music over the years?
When did you start putting more effort into your style?
I started putting effort in right from the beginning. I’m a person who pays attention so I looked at myself, I judged myself, I checked to gauge if [my style] was connected to what I’m proud of. Since I’ve been styling myself, I’ve reached the point where it is well mastered and crafted, so much so that it suits my brand completely.
Which brands do you gravitate towards?
I like classy, unique and bespoke brands. Sometimes I like to be edgy but always very masculine.
How does your style on stage differ from your usual day-to-day wear?
On stage I have to make my style very present. I do not go over the top or exude an overwhelming presence, though. Over the years I have learned to be selective with my looks. My presence [on stage] is sweet, confident and very authentic.
You are a renowned sneakerhead. How many pairs do you own?
I love sneakers and I cannot count them. Bro, definitely over 100 pairs but I give out sneakers a lot too.
What type of sneakers are your favourite?
I like sneakers that exude confidence and I prefer those that are chunky, but I do also like ones made from light material, which allows me to move swiftly in them. You’ll find a lot of those in my closet.
Who has influenced or inspired your style?
My style is inspired by my music and the way I want to be seen. It is inspired by the way I feel and the way I want to step out.
Has your cultural background contributed to your style?
Yes. I am an Ewe boy and in Ghana we are known for our national colours and traditional clothing, like the kente and the fugu, for example. With that aspect in mind, I often dress to show that I am confident in my culture – and that confidence shows in my costuming and styling.
Article by Lethabo Nxumalo
Images by APM World (Emmanuel Mensah Agbeble)