The term "ashawo" is a word with complex cultural roots and usage, particularly in West Africa. While often associated with Nigeria, its meaning and application extend to Ghana as well. This article delves into the meaning of "ashawo," its origins, and how it's used in Ghana, along with its popularization through music.
Map of Ghana showing its regions.
Origins and Definitions
Ashawo, also spelled ashewo, is a Yoruba word that primarily means prostitute or someone considered loose or a whore. It is used in Yoruba, Nigerian Pidgin, and increasingly in general Pidgin.
The word comes from the Yoruba phrase "a, se, owo," which literally translates to "picks money," reflecting the perception of how prostitutes earn their living. In Yoruba, the direct translation of prostitute is "ashawo" or "ashewo".
While some Ghanaians claim the word as their own due to its usage in the country, it's essential to recognize its Yoruba origins. However, in Twi, a major language in Ghana, the direct translation for prostitute is "odwamanfoɔ tuutuuni".
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It's a minor difference, which is why people get it mixed up. Someone posted saying it's a Nigerian word - it's not. ASHAWO is a word from the language Twi, from Ghana and simply means slut, prostitute, loose, easy. It can be used for a guy or girl, but is usually used for girls.
Usage in Music: Flavour's "Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)"
Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)
The term "ashawo" gained significant popularity through the song "Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)" by Nigerian singer Flavour N'abania. His hit song "Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)" propelled Flavour into stardom across Africa and the world.
The song, released in 2008 on his album titled ‘N’abania’, features the word "ashawo" and contributed to its widespread recognition. The lyrics of the song provide context to how the term is used in a contemporary setting. Here's a snippet of the lyrics and their interpretation:
- Oh baby sawa lee..sawa sawa sawa lee (2ce)… ASHAWO - Here, Flavour indicates that the girl in question is light-footed, walking around easily from place to place or of nimble gait.
- Ashawo Awosha Awosha Ashawo Ashawo Awosha kpomkpom - The word Ashawo means call-girl or an escort. To differentiate a call-girl from a prostitute or a whore (akwuna), a call girl’s client makes an appointment usually by telephone.
The song "Nwa Baby" is a new school version of an old school highlife song by the late Rex Lawson, one of the best-known highlife musicians in the 1960s.
Two of Ghana’s popular rappers Asem and Stone of Bradez joined Flavour for a remix version of Nwa Baby. Flavour had since been featured by some of the best in the music industry.
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Flavour N'abania: The Artist Behind the Song
Flavour N'abania performing live in concert.
Mr. Chinedu Okoli (born 23 November 1983), better known by his stage name Flavour N'abania or simply Flavour, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter.
He began his musical career as a drummer for a local church. Flavour is popularly known across Africa and the world for his hit song "Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix)". In 2008, he released his self-titled debut album N'abania. The album's success was relative and limited to Eastern Nigeria, particularly Enugu State.
Following the relative success of his debut album, Flavour released Uplifted in 2010. The album broke national barriers. Lolhiphop Records, an established record label in South Africa, released the album after popular demand.
Thankful was released in December 2014. The album consists of 22 tracks and runs for one hour seventeen minutes. Receiving generally positive reviews from music critics, it sold thousands of copies. The album features hit tracks such as the love ballad "Ololufe" featuring Chidinma and the fast-tempo Afro-pop song "Wake Up" feat.
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Controversies and Legal Battles
On 29 August 2012, Nigerian Entertainment Today reported that Flavour was involved in a legal battle with Ghanaian duo Wutah, over the alleged theft of "Kwarikwa". According to the article, "Kwarikwa" is an exact replica of "Kotosa", a song made by the aforementioned duo.
Discography
Flavour has released several albums throughout his career, each contributing to his fame and influence in the African music scene.
- N'abania (2008)
- Uplifted (2010)
- Thankful (2014)
- Ijele - The Traveller (2017)
- Flavour of Africa (2020)
Awards and Recognition
Flavour has received numerous nominations and awards throughout his career, recognizing his contributions to the music industry. Here are some highlights:
| Year | Award | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Headies | Various Categories | Nominated |
| 2022 | AFRIMA | Various Categories | Nominated |
| 2018 | AFRIMMA | Awards Received | Won |
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