Ghanaian rapper Medikal has recently added his voice to the ongoing debate surrounding the direction of the country’s music industry. Amidst calls for Ghanaian music to fill massive entertainment venues, win international awards like the Grammys, and dominate global music charts, Medikal has offered a fresh perspective on the matter. This discourse has been fueled by the remarkable success of Nigerian musicians who have been achieving feats such as filling the prestigious O2 Arena, winning Grammys, and securing top spots on renowned charts like the Billboard.
In a tweet that caught the attention of many, the renowned artist behind hits like “Omo Ada” pointed out that the conversation has shifted from pure entertainment to the setting of ambitious targets. Medikal expressed his belief that the essence of the music business is not to be treated as a competitive race, and he urged fans and industry stakeholders alike to ease off the pressure and excessive expectations placed on artists.
Medikal, who is associated with the “AMG” music group, underlined that the fundamental purpose of music is to entertain. However, he noted that the current focus seems to have shifted from creating an enjoyable experience for listeners to striving for specific achievements.
“Ghanaian music is gradually losing its essence and uniqueness due to the mounting pressure from certain quarters. The emphasis on having fun and providing entertainment is slowly being overshadowed by the pursuit of rigid targets and goals. Remember, music is not a competition,” Medikal articulated in his tweet.
The conversation surrounding the trajectories of music in both Ghana and Nigeria has intensified, particularly after the recent groundbreaking accomplishment of emerging artist Asake. The newcomer made history by filling London’s 20,000-capacity O2 Arena, a feat that stirred discussions about the potential and aspirations of Ghanaian artists. Asake’s entrance to the venue via helicopter further amplified the buzz surrounding his achievement.
While Nigerian music has undoubtedly made significant strides on the global stage, Medikal’s input reminds industry observers that the core essence of music lies in its ability to captivate, entertain, and connect with audiences. As the discourse between setting high targets and prioritizing entertainment continues, artists and stakeholders may find a balanced approach that allows Ghanaian music to shine both creatively and on a global scale.
