Rex Omar, a prominent figure in the arts and a representative of the Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO), has clarified that the Ghana Music Xperience (GMX) streaming platform was not launched by the NPP government, as some have suggested.
He emphasized that the platform is a private initiative, created by an individual, and not a government project.
“The streaming app was not launched by the NPP government, as is being portrayed. It is a private initiative by an individual who invited Vice President Bawumia to the launch. It is wrong to create the impression that the NPP government is behind the app.”
Rex Omar
He went on to explain that GHAMRO works with the developers of the GMX platform to help generate revenue for the artists signed with the organization.
“We work with the owner of Ghana Music Xperience, who is assisting us in digitizing the organization. We have already written to the government, and they have promised their support, which is yet to be received.”
Rex Omar
While Rex Omar acknowledged the platform as a valuable new revenue stream for musicians, he expressed concern about its heavy politicization. “It is a good initiative, and platforms like Aftown, Uprise, and other private initiatives are also great. But the issue lies in the politicization of the platform,” he noted.
Moreover, Ola Michael weighed in on the subject, stating that Ghanaians are being hypocritical in their defence of the GMX App.
Ola expressed his displeasure over the public’s praise of the project, arguing that the government does not own it, as many believe.
“I was at the launch of the GMX streaming app, and I was also monitoring a recent discussion on Peace FM where the spokesperson for the music streaming company clearly stated that the project is 100 percent privately owned. The government has nothing to do with its establishment.
“Let’s stop the hypocrisy. The spokesperson specifically said the app is privately owned, so why is the government taking credit for it? Just because the government was invited to launch the platform doesn’t mean they should claim ownership.”
Ola Michael
The Ghana Music Xperience streaming platform was launched in October 2024 by Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in Accra.
The app aims at creating a digital space for local artists to showcase their music while providing a platform for Ghanaians to access and enjoy homegrown content.
Pundit Questions Abeiku Santana’s Remarks on GMX App
Entertainment journalist and pundit, Arnold Asamoah Baidoo expressed his surprise at Abeiku Santana’s remarks questioning the relevance of a streaming platform in 2024.
During a meeting with former President John Dramani Mahama, Abeiku Santana praised the introduction of a pay-per-view platform for creatives but criticized the idea of partnering with the private sector to develop a streaming platform for musicians.
He argued that even Nigeria, with its larger population, does not have a state-supported streaming platform. Abeiku also referenced Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s past initiatives, claiming that several apps launched under his leadership have turned into “white elephants,” and advised creatives to approach the streaming app proposal with skepticism.
Reacting to Abeiku Santana’s position, Arnold Asamoah Baidoo expressed disbelief at his colleague’s stance, especially given the critical role streaming platforms play in the creative industry today.
“Empress, I am surprised that Santana, with his pedigree, will question the relevance of a streaming platform in this time and age. How does anybody with that repute, with that understanding, question the relevance of a streaming platform?”
Arnold Asamoah Baidoo
Arnold also addressed Abeiku’s claims about misinformation, adding, “He also said it was a lie. Where are the lies that surround the streaming platform?”
His comments reflect a broader concern about undermining initiatives that could benefit the creative industry.
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