Ghanaian musician Shatta Wale has expressed his shock and disappointment at the Food and Drug Authority (FDA) ban on celebrities endorsing alcoholic beverages. The dancehall artiste made these comments on Angel FM Kumasi, during a program hosted by journalist Ike the Unpredictable.
Shatta Wale likened the FDA ban to bringing a radio journalist to a studio but telling him not to use a microphone. He argued that the ban is unrealistic and stifles the creative freedom of artists. The musician also blamed the management of the Ghana Music Right Organization (GHAMRO) for not implementing the right measures to support musicians.
Shatta Wale emphasized the importance of taking music as a business, rather than just a hobby. He lamented that many Ghanaian musicians, including fellow dancehall artiste Stonebwoy and rapper Sarkodie, do not take the business aspect of music seriously. According to Shatta Wale, this lack of business acumen has hindered the growth of the Ghanaian music industry.
The musician also expressed his disappointment at Ghanaian musicians fighting to play shows in Europe, citing Norway as an example. He revealed that there is little financial gain from playing shows in Europe, and that musicians should focus on building their brand and generating revenue in Ghana.
Shatta Wale’s comments are not surprising, given his background in the music industry. Born Charles Nii Armah Mensah, Shatta Wale rose to fame in the early 2000s as part of the group Bandana. After a brief hiatus, he rebranded himself as Shatta Wale and has since become one of the most successful and influential musicians in Ghana.
Throughout his career, Shatta Wale has been known for his outspoken and unapologetic views on the music industry and Ghanaian society. His comments on the FDA ban and the state of the Ghanaian music industry are just the latest example of his willingness to speak truth to power and challenge the status quo.
Watch his recent interview at Angel FM below:
Source: Thepressradio.com| BA
