Veteran Ghanaian rapper Nii Addo Quaynor, better known in the music industry as Tinny, has finally broken his silence on persistent rumours about his sexuality. The “Makola Kwakwe” hitmaker, who has been the subject of online speculation for years, addressed the matter head-on during an interview on Okay FM with popular broadcaster Nana Romeo.
In a calm but firm tone, Tinny dismissed the rumours, insisting there is no truth to them. “I’m not gay,” he said unequivocally during the live interview. “I’ve heard it countless times and when I do, I’m happy. You are thinking I am, and I’m not, so I don’t really care. Like, who are you? I don’t worry my head about that.”
Tinny’s declaration comes after years of whispers and insinuations from sections of the public and online commentators who have speculated about his sexuality. However, the rapper made it clear that he is unfazed by such talk, noting that those who spread the rumours are simply wasting their time. “I’ve heard such claims countless times, but it doesn’t bother me because I know they are not true,” he said.
He went on to share that, despite not initiating any romantic engagements with men himself, he has often received unsolicited advances from male admirers, especially via social media. “I haven’t proposed to any man before, but I’ve had several men enter my DM to propose to me and all that,” Tinny revealed, emphasizing that while he has received such messages, they do not influence his own orientation or identity.
When pressed further about why he believes people might continue to assume he is gay, Tinny offered a light-hearted explanation that reflected both confidence and a sense of humour. “Maybe because I’m handsome,” he said with a smile, adding a chuckle that indicated he doesn’t take the speculations too seriously.
His remarks have since sparked renewed discussions among fans and the broader public on how male celebrities in Ghana are often subjected to rumours based on their appearance, mannerisms, or personal choices. In Tinny’s case, he believes that such scrutiny is a distraction he has long learned to ignore. “I don’t worry my head about that,” he reiterated, adding that those who engage in such gossip have little impact on his personal peace.
While Tinny was clear about where he stands personally, he also made it a point to express tolerance and respect for people who identify as gay. According to him, he holds no prejudice toward the LGBTQ+ community and sees no reason to discriminate. “They are in their world, and I don’t mind. It’s their choice,” he said, indicating that everyone deserves the right to live authentically and freely without fear of judgement.
In an era where homosexuality remains a sensitive topic in Ghana, with strong cultural and religious sentiments often fuelling debate, Tinny’s statement is likely to draw mixed reactions. However, he went further to clarify his views, stating that he would not end a friendship simply because someone came out as gay. “Why not? It’s the person’s choice. He’s also human and they are in their world,” he explained. His remarks reflect an open-minded attitude, which is still uncommon among some high-profile figures in the Ghanaian entertainment industry.
Tinny’s comments mark a rare instance where a major Ghanaian artist has openly addressed rumours about their sexuality while promoting acceptance of others’ choices. Although he stressed that he is not gay, he stopped short of condemning those who are, opting instead to show understanding. His approach has drawn admiration from some social media users who have applauded his calm and tolerant demeanor.
The rapper, who rose to fame in the early 2000s with a unique blend of Ga-language rap and catchy beats, has often been described as a trendsetter in Ghana’s hiplife scene. Known for hits such as “Makola Kwakwe,” “Incomplete,” and “I Believe I Can Fly,” Tinny has maintained a loyal fan base over the years, even as his presence in the mainstream spotlight has diminished. He continues to perform at selected events and has occasionally been featured on panel discussions about the state of Ghanaian music and the evolution of hiplife.
Despite the gossip surrounding his name, Tinny made it clear that such narratives will not define him. Rather than respond with anger or resentment, he chose to treat the rumours as baseless and irrelevant to his life. “When I do hear them, I’m happy. You’re thinking something about me that isn’t true, and I’m here living my life,” he said, shrugging off the speculation with confidence.
As Ghana continues to grapple with cultural discussions around gender identity and sexual orientation, public figures like Tinny taking a tolerant and calm stance may contribute to shifting the narrative towards greater empathy and understanding. While his denial may put to rest the rumours about his own sexuality, his acceptance of those who are different from him may leave a more lasting impact.
Tinny’s decision to address these rumours openly is a reflection of both personal strength and maturity. At a time when public discourse is often charged with hostility, his refusal to retaliate or insult his critics shows a level of emotional intelligence that is rare in celebrity culture. His choice to neither confirm nor condemn anyone else’s lifestyle but to simply live his own truth is perhaps the most powerful message of all.
As the conversation continues online and in the media, Tinny appears to be focused on what matters most to him—his music, his peace of mind, and staying true to himself. For many of his fans, his words serve as a reminder that strength is not only found in defending oneself but also in refusing to let negativity define your path.
Africa Live News will continue to follow reactions and developments as this story unfolds in the public space.
