Afrobeats Frenzy: Why Ghana’s Music Scene Should Concentrate on Authentic Ghanaian Music

Ghana’s music scene has been on an upward trajectory in recent years, with Afrobeats and Highlife genres gaining global recognition. However, in the midst of this success, there’s a growing concern that the industry is losing its authentic Ghanaian flavor. In this article, we’ll explore why it’s crucial for Ghana’s music scene to focus on producing authentic Ghanaian music.

The Rise of Afrobeats

Afrobeats, a genre that originated in Nigeria, has become a global phenomenon, with artists like Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy and Tiwa Savage leading the charge. Ghanaian artists like Sarkodie, Stonebwoy and Shatta Wale have also joined the Afrobeats bandwagon, producing hits that have resonated with fans worldwide. While this success is commendable, it’s important to note that the genre’s global appeal has led to a dilution of its authentic Ghanaian roots. How is that?

As Ghanaian artists embrace this popular genre, they risk losing the unique flavor of their local music. The blending of Afrobeats with traditional Ghanaian styles often results in a homogenized sound that lacks the distinctive character of Ghanaian music.

As Ghanaian artists adopt Afrobeats, they often abandon their cultural heritage, sacrificing traditional rhythms, melodies, and lyrics for mainstream acceptance. The global popularity of Afrobeats drives this trend, with many artists prioritizing commercial success over cultural preservation.

Rather than innovating and experimenting with their own unique sounds, Ghanaian artists may rely on established Afrobeats formulas, further diluting authentic Ghanaian music. The emphasis on Nigerian collaborations and influences also contributes to the erosion of Ghanaian cultural identity.

Furthermore, industry pressure from record labels and executives exacerbates this trend,

encouraging artists to adopt Afrobeats to appeal to a broader audience. In the process, Ghanaian artists may compromise their artistic vision, sacrificing their unique perspectives and cultural expression.

This dilution of authentic Ghanaian roots music has led to cultural erosion, making it essential for Ghanaian artists and the music industry to strike a balance between commercial appeal and cultural preservation. By doing so, they can ensure that Ghanaian music remains a vibrant and distinct cultural force.

The Leader Becomes the Follower

Ghanaian artistes have had a profound impact on the development of Afrobeats in Nigeria. The influence of Ghanaian music, particularly Highlife, has been a significant driving force behind the creation of this unique sound. Nigerian musicians have drawn inspiration from various aspects of Ghanaian music, including its rhythmic patterns, melodic structures, lyrical themes and instrumentation.

The incorporation of Ghanaian Highlife rhythms into Afrobeats has resulted in a distinctive fusion sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. Ghanaian melodies have also inspired Nigerian artistes, with many adopting similar melodic patterns in their songs. Additionally, the focus on storytelling and social commentary in Ghanaian music has influenced Nigerian artistes to tackle similar themes in their lyrics.

The use of traditional instruments like the gong gong, kora and gyil in Ghanaian music has also inspired Nigerian artistes

to incorporate similar instruments into their sound. Collaborations between Ghanaian and Nigerian artistes have led to the exchange of ideas and influences, further enriching the sound. The cultural exchange between the two countries has resulted in a sharing of musical ideas, with Ghanaian artistes introducing Nigerian musicians to new sounds and styles.

Notable Ghanaian artistes like E.T. Mensah, Osibisa, Amakye Dede, Kofi Sammy, Ebo Taylor, Paapa Yankson and Reggie Rockstone, among others have been a source of inspiration for Nigerian musicians like Fela Kuti, King Sunny Adé, 2Face Idibia and P-Square which then trickled down to Wizkid, Davido and Tiwa Savage. The influence of Ghanaian artistes on Nigerian Afrobeats has resulted in a rich and diverse sound that has gained worldwide recognition and acclaim. It is therefore a paradox that the leader has now started following those they inspired, leading to the loss of their authenticity.

The Need for Authenticity

The importance of authenticity in Ghanaian music cannot be overstated. When Ghanaian music is authentic, it preserves the country’s unique cultural identity, keeping traditional rhythms, melodies and lyrics alive. This authenticity also sets Ghanaian music apart from other genres, making it recognizable and valuable to listeners seeking something distinct.

Authenticity allows artists to remain true to their creative vision, expressing themselves honestly and genuinely through their music. It helps them connect with their cultural roots, drawing inspiration from their heritage and creating music that resonates with their audience. This connection to their roots also encourages innovation, as artists experiment with traditional sounds and styles to create something new and unique.

Authenticity instills national pride, making Ghanaian music a symbol of cultural identity and a source of national unity. It ensures that Ghanaian music leaves a lasting legacy, contributing to the country’s cultural heritage for future generations. By being authentic, Ghanaian music differentiates itself from other genres, attracting listeners seeking something unique.

Authenticity also facilitates cultural exchange, allowing Ghanaian music to share its unique perspective with the world. It fosters artistic growth, as artists continually explore and refine their craft, producing music that is genuine and meaningful. By embracing authenticity, Ghanaian music can maintain its cultural significance, artistic value, and national pride, ensuring a vibrant and distinct musical identity that resonates with listeners both at home and abroad.

Ghana’s music scene is at a crossroads, with the choice to either continue down the path of generic Afrobeats or embrace its authentic cultural heritage. I believe that the latter is the way forward, and I urge Ghanaian artists, producers, and industry stakeholders to concentrate on producing music that truly reflects the country’s unique rhythms, melodies, and cultural traditions. By doing so, Ghana’s music scene can maintain its global relevance while preserving its cultural identity. The world is ready for authentic Ghanaian music – let’s give it to them!

The author Jules Nartey-Tokoli is Founder and Group CEO at Groupe Soleil Vision, comprising Soleil Consults, LLC, NubianBiz dot Com, ShopNubian dot Com and Soleil Publications. He has lived and worked in both Ghana and the United States, having extensive experience in Strategy, Management, Entrepreneurship, Premium Audit Advisory and Web consulting. He has also published several articles on Strategy, Management, Corporate Governance, Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Economics, e-Commerce, Information Technology, Customer Service and Care, Sales, Marketing, Communication, Branding, Education, among others.