Addi Self is one of Ghana’s most talented and resilient rappers, a young man whose journey from the streets of Mamobi to the world stage is one of the most inspiring stories in Ghanaian music.
Best known for his association with the Shatta Movement (SM) and the hit anthem Taking Over, Addi Self has proven himself to be a gifted lyricist and performer whose artistry continues to evolve.
After parting ways with Shatta Movement, he released his critically acclaimed debut album The Journey (Zongo to BBC), which topped the Ghana iTunes chart for six consecutive weeks.
Profile
| Full Name | Jafaro Mohammed |
| Stage Name | Addi Self |
| Born | September 19, 1992 |
| Age | 33 Years Old (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Mamobi, Accra, Ghana |
| Nationality | Ghanaian |
| Occupation | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter |
| Religion | Islam |
Early Life
Addi Self was born Jafaro Mohammed on September 19, 1992, in Mamobi, a suburb of Accra, Ghana. Growing up in the slum community of Mamobi, Addi Self experienced firsthand the hardships and realities of life in one of Accra’s most densely populated and underprivileged neighborhoods. Despite these challenges, he maintained a positive spirit and a deep passion for both football and music.
He attended 37 Military Hospital Basic School where he began his formal education. During his school years, he found passion in football and joined the Gye Nyame Football Club (now Strong Tower FC), where he played as a goalkeeper. Alongside his football interests, he had a profound love for music and dance, drawing inspiration from global icons like Michael Jackson, Tupac Shakur, Bob Marley, and Anthony B.
He began writing about the real-life experiences around him from his neighborhood to his school and turned those words and thoughts into freestyle songs. He later started sampling beats online and creating his own music, thus developing into a self-made artist. The name “Addi Self” was coined from the phrase “Addicted to Me”, reflecting his philosophy of self-belief and self-determination.
Education
Addi Self received his basic education at 37 Military Hospital Basic School in Accra. Details about his further formal education are not extensively documented, but his self-taught approach to music and his rise from the grassroots speak volumes about his discipline and intellect. His music itself often serves as an educational narrative about his life and his community.
Career
Addi Self’s career gained significant momentum when he joined forces with Ghanaian dancehall superstar Shatta Wale and became a member of the SM Militants the group of artists aligned with the Shatta Movement empire. Together, they released the massive 2017 hit Taking Over, which became one of the biggest songs in Ghana that year. The SM Militants performed on various global platforms, including the iconic O2 Arena in London, an achievement that brought international visibility to Addi Self.
He was also featured on BBC 1Xtra with DJ Edu, together with Shatta Wale and fellow militant Joint 77, further boosting his profile on the international stage. His energetic performances and sharp lyrical delivery made him stand out within the Shatta Movement camp.
In 2020, Addi Self’s contract with Shatta Movement ended. Rather than being discouraged, he used this transition as a launching pad for his independent career. He released a series of singles including Where Di Money, My Daughter (Freestyle), How Many Times, Grateful Letter to Shatta Wale, and Eddi Worhor, building anticipation for his debut solo project.
On April 9, 2021, Addi Self released his highly anticipated debut album The Journey (Zongo to BBC), a 15-track project that immediately resonated with fans and critics alike. The album debuted at #1 on the Ghana iTunes Top Albums Chart for six straight weeks and reached #4 on the World iTunes Albums Chart a remarkable achievement for an independent artist. The title of the album represents his personal journey from the streets of Zongo (referring to Mamobi) to performing at the BBC, and it captures the rawness, resilience, and hope that define his life story.
Awards & Nominations
- Recognition as part of the SM Militants for contributing to Ghana’s 2017 music landscape
- Ghana iTunes #1 Album with The Journey (Zongo to BBC) (2021)
- #4 World iTunes Albums Chart (2021)
Social Media
Addi Self is active on social media where he connects with his fans and shares his music and life updates. He can be found on the following platforms:
- Instagram: @addiself
- Twitter/X: @addiself
- Facebook: Addi Self (Official Page)
- YouTube: Addi Self (Official Channel)
Personal Life
Addi Self is known to be a private individual when it comes to his personal relationships and romantic life. He has referenced his daughter in his music notably in his freestyle song My Daughter indicating that he is a father and deeply values his family. His upbringing in Mamobi remains a core part of his identity, and he regularly speaks about his community and his desire to give back and inspire young people from similar backgrounds. His Islamic faith also plays an important role in his worldview and character.
Net Worth
While Addi Self’s exact net worth is not publicly confirmed, it is estimated to be in the range of $100,000 – $300,000 USD based on his music sales, streaming revenues, performance fees, and other entertainment-related income. His debut album’s success on iTunes and subsequent single releases have steadily grown his earning potential as an independent artist. As his career continues to expand, his financial standing is expected to grow accordingly.
Discography
Studio Albums
- The Journey (Zongo to BBC) – 2021 (15 tracks)
Selected Singles & Notable Songs
- Taking Over ft. Shatta Wale & SM Militants (2017)
- Where Di Money
- My Daughter (Freestyle)
- How Many Times
- Grateful Letter to Shatta Wale
- Eddi Worhor
FAQs
Who is Addi Self?
Addi Self is a Ghanaian rapper and singer born Jafaro Mohammed. He rose to fame as a member of the SM Militants under Shatta Wale’s Shatta Movement.
What is Addi Self’s real name?
His real name is Jafaro Mohammed.
Where is Addi Self from?
He is from Mamobi, a suburb of Accra, Ghana.
What is Addi Self’s most popular song?
His most popular song is Taking Over with Shatta Wale and the SM Militants (2017).
When did Addi Self release his debut album?
He released his debut album The Journey (Zongo to BBC) on April 9, 2021.
How did the name Addi Self come about?
The name was derived from the phrase “Addicted to Me,” representing his belief in self-determination and self-reliance.
Conclusion
Addi Self’s biography is a story of passion, survival, and triumph. From the streets of Mamobi to the international stage, his journey reflects the power of self-belief and artistic dedication. His debut album The Journey (Zongo to BBC) is not just a musical project it is a declaration that talent from any corner of the world can rise to global recognition. As he continues to evolve as an independent artist, Addi Self remains one of Ghana’s most compelling voices in contemporary hip-hop.
