Top Woodd, whose real name is Eastwood, took on his stage name during a period of self-reflection he describes as an “identity crisis.”
“I am called Eastwood yeah. I was having an Identity crises so I was trying to just pick a name that would fit what I am doing. So the Top was something that is there already but the Woodd came from my name – Eastwood. Yeah!” Woodd explained.
Known for his versatility, Top Woodd has been on a steady path in music since his junior high school days, where he first embraced rap. It was during his time at Ghanata Senior High School, however, that he began taking music seriously. There, he met a group of like-minded friends, and with their support, he ventured into professional recording, collaborating with Samsney in Dodowa, where his school was located.
“It started way back in JHS. Yeah! When I used to write raps. So when I went, they told me that I am good and that I should start making professional music. Actually when I was in JHS i was just writing songs but not dropping it but when I went to SHS, Ghanata, that was where everything kick-started. I actually met a group of boys who were also making music and I began rolling with them, I went to record with Samsney inside Dodowa those days and we performed on stage and that was it.” Woodd recalled.
One of Top Wood’s standout tracks, “Chatty Boys”, featuring Lalid, tackles the theme of people’s constant chatter and backtalk. Top Wood clarified that the song is not aimed at anyone in particular. Instead, it’s about resilience and staying focused, even when surrounded by unnecessary noise and criticism.
“People talk a lot, like saying things that are outside of the box. So we are just trying to say that they Chat a lot but we’re all just trying to survive,” he said, emphasizing his desire to rise above distractions.
Top Wood shared these insights during an interview on Radio Univers’ At The DJ’s Mercy on November 9, 2024. When asked about his aspirations, Top Wood shared a clear vision for his future.
“In the next five years, I see myself fully secured, VVS! Like Fully secure, wealthy, and at peace. On God!” he expressed with confidence.
His commitment to music is unwavering; he describes himself as a “studio rat,” devoting his days to creating music, with little more on his daily agenda than waking up, thanking God, and diving into his craft.
Aside from music, Top Wood is deeply passionate about fashion. His love for style has become an essential part of his identity as an artist, inspiring his distinctive look and stage presence.
Yet, he acknowledges that the journey isn’t without challenges. Top Wood spoke candidly about the difficulties artists face, particularly in promotion and expanding their reach to larger audiences. Still, with his dedication, creativity, and resilience, Top Wood seems ready to overcome these obstacles as he continues to grow his name and his artistry.
With a strong sense of self and an eye on the future, Top Wood is paving his way in the music industry, determined to reach his dreams on his own terms.
Story by: Kelvin B. Annor-Yeboah | univers.ug.edu.gh
