Nana Yaw Kumi (born May 16, 1985), known by the stage name Kumi Guitar, is a Ghanaian Highlife and Afro-fusion singer-songwriter. He is recognized for his lyrical content and usage of guitar, which earned him his stage name. He was the first artist signed to Zylofon Media in 2017; his songs include "Break Into Two", "Dream", and "Betweener".
Kumi Guitar was born Nana Yaw Kumi in Accra, Ghana. He discovered his passion for music at a young age and was a member of a musical group during his secondary education at Adisadel College in Cape Coast (2001âÂÂ2003).
Following his secondary education, Kumi faced financial challenges that delayed his further studies. During this period, he worked as a taxi driver to support himself while continuing to pursue music, often attending studio sessions at Big F Studios and Sugar Tome Studios before or after his driving shifts. He eventually received formal training from the producer, Zap Mallet, who also gave him the nickname "Kumi Guitar."
Kumi Guitar's professional breakthrough occurred after he collaborated on a compilation by producer Sugar Tome. His single "Break Into Two", featuring Guru, brought him into the national spotlight and earned him a nomination for New Artist of the Year at the 2014 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA).
In January 2017, he signed a five-year management deal with Zylofon Media, which was valued at approximately $100,000, and included a house and a vehicle. Under this label, he released "Dream," a song that chronicled his struggles and rise in the industry.