Kwesi Arthur’s “Penny” Song Review

Penny – Single

Kwesi Arthur

• Genre: Worldwide
• Date: 03 May, 2023
• Content: Not-explicit
• Region: GH
• Track(s): 1
• ℗ 2023 Sisi

Ghanaian artist Kwesi Arthur delivers a captivating and inspiring track with his song “Penny.” The track showcases Arthur’s exceptional talent as a lyricist and his ability to seamlessly blend elements of hip-hop and Afrobeat. The song, which centers around the theme of overcoming struggles and embracing newfound success, resonates with listeners as a powerful ode to the journey of life.

The song starts with a catchy hook that immediately grabs the listener’s attention: “I remember when we begging for penny / Now the pockets obolo, getting heavy.” This line sets the stage for the narrative that unfolds throughout the track, chronicling the story of a person who has risen from a life of poverty and desperation to one of prosperity and triumph. The hook’s repetition creates an infectious rhythm that stays with the listener long after the song has ended.

Kwesi Arthur’s lyrics in “Penny” are both introspective and relatable, painting a vivid picture of the struggles faced by many in the quest for a better life. He reflects on the difficult circumstances he and others have experienced, such as “sleeping with the pythons” and “coming from the hood.” His honesty in depicting these harsh realities is commendable and contributes to the song’s emotional depth.

Despite the hardships, Kwesi Arthur’s message in “Penny” remains one of hope and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and staying true to oneself in lines like “I was just surviving, now I’m just thriving” and “Oluwa give me guidance.” These lyrics serve as a reminder to listeners that even in the face of adversity, there is always the potential for growth and success.

The song’s production is top-notch, blending modern hip-hop beats with traditional African rhythms, creating an infectious sound that is both contemporary and timeless. The combination of these elements, along with Arthur’s smooth vocal delivery, results in a track that is sonically pleasing and leaves a lasting impression.

“Penny” also highlights the importance of gratitude and humility in the face of success. Kwesi Arthur acknowledges the role of divine intervention in his journey, as he sings, “God have mercy oh-oh-oh, I go never forget oh-oh-oh / I count my blessings oh-oh-oh, e never go empty oh-oh-oh.” This sentiment encourages listeners to appreciate their own blessings and achievements, no matter how big or small.

While Kwesi Arthur’s “Penny” has an introspective lyrics and infectious rhythm, we can argue that the song falls short in terms of originality and depth. Theme of overcoming adversity and embracing success is hardly a groundbreaking concept in the music world, and the track may come across as somewhat clichéd as a result. Additionally, the hook seems more monotonous than catchy, making the song less enjoyable on subsequent listens. Despite the song’s positive message and production quality, these shortcomings may prevent “Penny” from reaching its full potential and standing out as a truly exceptional piece of music.

Kwesi Arthur’s “Penny” is a powerful and inspiring song that beautifully captures the human experience of overcoming adversity and embracing success.