Ghanian singer songwriter Petra Miriam Tetteh is building a name for herself as a beacon of strength in the music industry. Taking inspiration from her name, which means “stone” or “rock,” Petra created her stage name: Petrah. Under her new name, Petrah has built a powerful career that relies on her explorations of her own personality and strength.
Since being discovered as a church singer, Petrah has been nominated for several Vodafone Ghana Music Awards, including Best Female Vocalist and Best Video. Her solo work as well as her work with other artists provides an inspiring look at how pride in your name can lead to incredible achievements.
We caught up with Petrah for an inside look at her career in the wake of her latest release, Petrology Vol. 3. Read on for the full interview!
Showstopper Magazine Online: A major part of your performance is your name. Can you tell us a bit about the role “Petrah” plays in who you are as an artist?
Petra Miriam Tetteh: My name is actually a big part of my identity as an artist. “Petrah” is my real name, and it carries a lot of meaning for me. That’s why I chose to keep it as my stage name; it represents who I am, both personally and creatively.
SMO: Strength, self-worth, and empowerment are at the forefront of your work. How does emphasizing your name and its meaning help you achieve those goals?
Petrah: Well, my name says it all, so I move with understanding and execution, which makes it easy to navigate.
SMO: Names are signals. What signal are you hoping to send your audience with yours?
Petrah: My name signals resilience and empowerment. I want people to feel strength, courage, and possibility when they hear it.
SMO: How have you learned to stand out as one of five sisters? What lessons did that teach you about standing out in the world of music?
Petrah: Growing up as one of five sisters taught me the power of embracing my differences. I learned early on that standing out isn’t about competing; it’s about accepting what makes you unique and owning it. That mindset has shaped how I show up in music, too. I lean into my individuality, my voice, and my style, and that’s what helps me stand out in the industry.
SMO: How do you blend your personality with different genres when you make music?
Petrah: I blend my personality into different genres by letting the theme of the song guide me. Once I understand the mood and message I’m working with, I naturally bring my own energy, attitude, and style into it. That’s how I stay true to myself while still being versatile across genres.
SMO: You recently released Petrology Vol 3. What does that project mean to you?
Petrah: Growth and creativity.
SMO: What advice do you have for other artists building names for themselves?
Petrah: My advice is simple: make it make sense. Every move, every release, every collaboration should align with who you are and what you’re trying to build.
SMO: Is there anything else you’d like people to know about you or your work?
Petrah: My latest work is fresh and different, don’t miss it, go listen now!
