Kwabena Kwabena On Highlife Music And Self Identity

Kwabena Kwabena On Highlife Music And Self Identity
KwabenKwabena


Legendary Ghanaian Highlife musician Kwabena Kwabena has called for the need to project our sense of identity in relation to the Highlife music genre within Ghana’s music space, devoid of external validation. In a conversation with the Culture Squad on 3Music TV’s Big Conversation, he revealed that most artistes especially within the Ghanaian music space have lost their self identity, focusing on what is popular than pushing their own originality while making reference to efforts by some Nigerian artistes who have continued to push the ever-growing Afrobeat genre until its global recognition and acceptance.

 

According to him, it is necessary for Ghana to focus less on belonging and be driven toward being heard. He added that the time had come for the establishment of a music academy within the Ghanaian industry, comprising music geniuses – legends from an earlier period as well as the current generation capable of identifying and establishing the structure of our music as it is only then that we will, as a people, be able to have a sense of self.

 

He pointed out the role of the media in giving artistes a sense of direction in their creative process with the kind of art they project with their platforms, advising that artistes be careful not to be swayed by what is popular but focus on originality in order not to lose themselves in forms of art they do not identify with. He also charged the media and other stakeholders to be intentional in amplifying and upholding their responsibility of defining the identity of Ghanaian music genres enough to be recognized, accepted and projected both locally and internationally.

 

Additionally, he addressed another section of industry stakeholders - the Ghanaian public - to do better with regard to channeling energies toward constructive criticism as it contributes to either motivating or demoralizing artistes. He concluded by highlighting the importance of investing in a single agenda of safeguarding and projecting the Ghanaian identity. He also hinted on a yet-to-be released feature with Nigerian highlife musicians, The Cavemen.

Comments

More From 3Music News

3Music TV Celebrates First Anniversary

3Music TV Celebrates First Anniversary

One year down the line, the entertainment-focused, youth-oriented television station has warmed its way into the hearts of audiences, both in and outside Ghana, first with its flagship morning show, Culture Daily...

Mr. Eazi's Choplife System Renovates Jamestown Bronx Boxing Gym

Mr. Eazi's Choplife System Renovates Jamestown Bronx Boxing Gym

Mr. Eazi has added on to his philantropic works in Ghana with the renovation of the Bronx Boxing Gym in Jamestown.

3Music TV Celebrates First Anniversary

3Music TV Celebrates First Anniversary

3Music TV would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to viewers, the entertainment ecosystem, the media, clients, partners, sponsors and all who have made the first year’s journey worthwhile.

Adina Speaks On Collaborating With Stonebwoy

Adina Speaks On Collaborating With Stonebwoy

Singer Adina Thembi opens up about her experience working with Ghanaian Reggae-Dancehall Artiste Stonebwoy on the Big Conversation with the Culture Squad.

British-Ghanaian Artist GINIUS Blends Cultural Roots And Modern Influences In Mesmerizing New Release

British-Ghanaian Artist GINIUS Blends Cultural Roots And Modern Influences In Mesmerizing New Release

Not My Concern, seamlessly blends Afro Pop and Amapiano influences. GINIUS's harmonious vocals take center stage, reminiscent of her early days in her church choir. The track's catchy chorus and playful melodies, driven by log drums, deliver a message of blessings and positivity.

Tory Lanez Seeks Bail As He Awaits Appeal Following 10-Year Prison Sentence

Tory Lanez Seeks Bail As He Awaits Appeal Following 10-Year Prison Sentence

Lanez' request for bail is met with skepticism from legal experts. Michael Freedman of The Freedman Firm explained that to obtain bail pending an appeal, Lanez must demonstrate a substantial likelihood of prevailing on appeal, typically by showing errors made by the trial judge.

Nigerian Music Star Mohbad, A.K.A Imole, Passes Away at 27

Nigerian Music Star Mohbad, A.K.A Imole, Passes Away at 27

According to a source from Mohbad's team, the young singer had visited the hospital for treatment due to an infection resulting from an injury. During his hospital stay, he received an injection, after which he unexpectedly lost consciousness and did not regain consciousness.

Ko-Jo Cue Advocates for More Action and Less Talk In Ghana's Music Industry

Ko-Jo Cue Advocates for More Action and Less Talk In Ghana's Music Industry

Seasoned Ghanaian rapper, Ko-Jo Cue has called for more action and less talk in the Ghanaian Music Industry. He spoke on taking steps to put into practice the knowledge of the music business, rather than continually speaking on it with nothing to show for it.

Calabash Color Festival Successfully Holds First Edition

Calabash Color Festival Successfully Holds First Edition

Calabash Color festival has succesfully held the very first edition over the weekend at Untamed Empire.

Mimi Plange Publicises Nike X LeBron Collaboration

Mimi Plange Publicises Nike X LeBron Collaboration

Ghanaian-born American fashion designer, Mimi Plange launches the Mimi Plange x Nike LeBron 20 CEREMONY.

Rihanna Unveils Fenty X Puma Avanti Collaboration

Rihanna Unveils Fenty X Puma Avanti Collaboration

Robyn Rihanna Fenty has unveiled her newest collaboration with Puma, the Avanti.

Ghana’s AnimaxFYB Studios Unveils Official Promotional Video For Mimi Plange X Nike LeBron Ceremony Sneaker Release

Ghana’s AnimaxFYB Studios Unveils Official Promotional Video For Mimi Plange X Nike LeBron Ceremony Sneaker Release

The Mimi Plange x Nike LeBron 20 collaboration is a visual masterpiece, featuring exquisite floral embroidery covering the entire white-based upper. Vibrant infrared accents adorn the iconic Swoosh logos, tongue, and sockliner, adding a striking contrast to the design.

More Similar Videos

No similar videos to show related to this post. Explore other sections.