Veteran Highlife musician, Kaakyire Kwame Appiah, has spoken on the growing trend of Ghanaian musicians, particularly veterans, struggling with financial and emotional challenges throughout their careers.
He noted that while musicians may not be poor, the pressure from extended family responsibilities and the lack of sustainable income sources are pushing many into depression.
“Many musicians are going through a lot. Demands from our loved ones are a lot. So, the little you are making to take care of yourself, you also have to sacrifice to support your family and relatives. That is one of the causes of depression among musicians.”
Kaakyire Kwame Appiah
Music has always been a powerful form of expression, capable of transcending barriers and uniting people across diverse backgrounds. Musicians are often celebrated for their creativity and talent, yet behind the scenes, many are grappling with financial instability.
The rise of digital streaming, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lack of adequate support systems have exacerbated the financial struggles faced by artists.
The artist lamented on the decline in royalty payments, stating that digital piracy and unregulated use of their works in spaces such as movies, barbershops, clubs, and public transport have left musicians with little to no returns on their creations.
“In those days, we had cassettes and CDs, so we could get a little money. But now, with the rise of digital platforms and smartphones, our works are being pirated. We are not getting anything from them.”
Kaakyire Kwame Appiah
Kaakyire Kwame Appiah also called on stakeholders to consider setting up a fund to support veteran musicians, stating that such an initiative would go a long way to ease their struggles.
His comments come in the wake of the death of the Highlife singer Dada KD, who passed away after a sudden illness on May 16, 2025. Prior to his passing, Dada KD had been vocal about the plight of many Ghanaian musicians are going through.
The financial struggles faced by musicians are a pressing issue that demands our attention. As the world continues to evolve, it is crucial to recognize the invaluable contributions of artists and to create an environment that supports their livelihoods.
By advocating for fair compensation, enhancing support systems, and fostering direct connections between artists and their audiences, it is ensured that musicians not only survive but thrive in an ever-changing landscape.
The music industry is not just a business; it is a vital part of cultural fabric, and it is a collective responsibility to protect and nurture it for future generations.
Kaakyire Kwame Appiah on Dada KD’s Death
The veteran Ghanaian musician revealed a startling incident that occurred after the sudden demise of veteran highlife singer Dada KD.
Kaakyire Kwame Appiah stated that a note was discovered near the lifeless body of the late musician.
However, he clarified that he could not confirm whether the note was indeed written by Dada KD. Despite being aware of the contents, Kaakyire declined to disclose what the note said.
“When we got there, we saw a note, but I don’t know if he was the one who wrote it or not. I don’t want to talk about it because I don’t want any controversies about it. But the police even confirmed that there was a note there.”
Kaakyire Kwame Appiah
Recounting his relationship with the late musician, Kaakyire Kwame Appiah noted that Dada KD has been a brother to him.
“KD and I are very good friends. We are like brothers and even if so, go to Germany I stay at his place. I am the one who named all his children because when his wife gave birth, he wasn’t around so I named the children.
“He has been a younger brother to me so if there is any show, he is the first person I invite. He wasn’t seriously sick. All I knew was that he was having a cold.”
Kaakyire Kwame Appiah
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