West Ham’s Kudus reveals his love for Amapiano music

Kudus: Photo Credit: West Ham United.

West Ham United forward Mohammed Kudus says he draws inspiration before matches by listening to African music, including from his homeland, Ghana, and South Africa’s Amapiano.

Kudus spoke about his love for African music during an interview with Premier League Television before featuring in West Ham’s 2-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The Ghana international said he prepares for matches by listening to songs by Ghanaian artists such as Stonebwoy, Black Sherif, and M.anifest.

“Before games, there’s a big speaker in the dressing room and music. Music revolves around us, and I think personally, it forces a lot of energy in me. Before games, I listen to energised songs so that I’m pumped up for the game. There’s some quiet time too, so you listen to calm songs, so it has an impact on our everyday life and football also,” Kudus said.

The former Ajax Amsterdam FC star further said listening to music was one way of reconnecting with African culture.

Kudus said: “There’s a lot actually, there’s a lot I listen to—mostly Ghanaian, Nigerian, a little bit of Amapiano also, Jamaican as well, Popcorn and Vybz Kartel, so I listen to almost everything!”

The winger said he was also inspired by the visit to his club of Ghanaian artists such as Stonebwoy and M.anifest.

Kudus was in action for West Ham when they beat United on Sunday, May 11, 2025. Tomas Soucek and skipper Jarrod Bowen scored to end an eight-game winless run for Graham Potter’s men.