Award-winning Ghanaian rapper/songwriter Okyeame Kwame has indicated that the absence of researchers and pop culture experts in the creative sector has left a significant void.
He pointed out that it was very critical on the part of industry stakeholders and policymakers to recognize the importance of these experts and take steps to incorporate their expertise into the creative ecosystem since their absence threatens the industry’s growth and sustainability.
He further mentioned that the industry is facing numerous challenges such as piracy, lack of infrastructure, and inadequate support systems due to the lack of a strategic plan which would offer a structured approach to industry growth.
“Our music industry for instance lacks balance. We have artists who create captivating music, producers who craft amazing beats, and talent managers who nurture emerging talents. But what we are lacking now are researchers, pop culture experts, and academia to bring in a flair of balance. And so, at a point, we would need these researchers to fill in the knowledge gap in the industry”.
Okyeame Kwame
In his contribution, the “Woara” hit-maker said the role of researchers and pop culture experts in Ghana’s music industry cannot be underestimated, as they can help preserve and document the rich cultural heritage embedded in Ghanaian music.
“I am confident that these experts can provide in-depth analyses of various music genres in Ghana by helping to identify trends, influences, and innovations within the industry”, he stated.
“This knowledge can be invaluable for artists looking to push the boundaries of their creativity and create music that resonates with both local and international audiences. These experts can conduct market studies to understand consumer preferences and trends in the music industry. This insight can be instrumental in helping artists and record labels tailor their music to the desires of their audience, ultimately leading to increased success and sustainability in our industry”.
Okyeame Kwame
Fixing a nation starts with self-improvement
Okyeame Kwame revealed that fixing a nation starts with self-improvement rather than solely relying on politicians for national development.
The musician’s message comes at a time when political discourse and expectations are running high amidst the #occupyjulorbihouse demonstration.
Responding to a question about “Who do you believe will fix the country?”, Okyeame Kwame asserted that no single leader, no matter how capable, can single-handedly fix all of the country’s challenges.
According to him, the collective impact would improve the nation if each citizen took responsibility for improving their health, nurturing positive attitudes, strengthening their families, and excelling in their professions.
“You Naa you will fix the country. Starting with your health, then mindset, then your family, then your work. If we all start a small light in our little corners, Ghana will become bright. All the names you have mentioned can also light a small flame. However, Ghana cannot be fixed by one man. No messiah in politics”, he declared in his tweet.
Many Ghanaians expressed frustration with the musician’s sentiments, believing that his remarks exonerated the political leadership from accountability for the country’s challenges.
Reactions sparked by social media users include:
“When you’re done, make sure you don’t get sick. Build your own school, hire your own teachers, your doctors, build your own roads, etc…”, @nfreduagyeman commented.
“By what you are saying then we don’t even need leaders and leadership if we are responsible for fixing the country while we have appointed people to be the head of that”, @thatBarcaGuy10 said.
“Senior… I still don’t think you get it… If the system is broken, no matter how you fix yourself in a broken system it won’t work”, @evenxavier wrote.
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