After nearly ten years away from the spotlight, Ghanaian singer Raquel is returning with a renewed purpose, a fresh sound, and a brand-new identity.
The ‘Sweetio’ singer has reinvented herself as Elia-Naa, a name she says symbolizes “a clean slate” and the beginning of a new chapter in her life and career.
In a recent interview with Graphic Showbiz, she shared insights about her hiatus, personal growth, and why this comeback feels more genuine than ever.
During her time away, Raquel pursued a completely different life in the United Kingdom.
“For the past eight years, I enjoyed working as a full-time supply teacher in primary schools across the UK and occasionally taught music and also worked as a teaching assistant for children with special needs. I absolutely love it! I love children,” she said.
She explained that the break also gave her the chance to reflect deeply.
“I’ve also spent a lot of time getting to know myself. This might sound strange but a lot of people don’t really know who they are or what they stand for and what they are truly capable of. Taking time to reflect, isolate, restart and reload has refreshed my life in ways I never imagined,” she added.
The new name carries deep personal and spiritual meaning. “Naa” comes from her Ga name, Naa Ayorkor, meaning “princess” or “queen,” while “Elia” was inspired by a biblical passage she discovered with her cousin, Ezekiel. Her middle name, Patience, reminds her to trust divine timing.
“I no longer connected with Raquel,” she said. “In Spanish, it means ‘female sheep’—and that wasn’t me anymore. I wanted a name that reflects my journey, my faith and the fact that God has always answered my prayers.”
Even while stepping back from public life, Elia-Naa continued creating music, releasing several tracks on digital platforms.
“They are beautiful pieces. They include Hope with my brother Azaryah. It took me about three years to finally record my verse for this stunning song. There is also Passover Me with my sisters Babette and Matildao, and Plenty Name and Sↄlemↄ. I have two songs with my brother from Congo titled Enjoyment and Thy Will ft Aaron,” she said.
Elia-Naa is preparing to officially relaunch her career with a new EP and her second studio album, more than a decade after her 2012 debut album, @25.
