Multiple award-winning Rapper Michael Owusu Addo, better known by his stage name Sarkodie, from Ghana, has spoken out about issues with the nation’s music royalties system.
In his opinion, the establishment of a well-structured system is essential to guaranteeing that artists receive their just compensation.
At the 3i Africa Summit Partners and Stakeholders Mixer, which took place in Accra on March 7, Sarkodie made these remarks during a panel discussion.
“The royalty system has been a major issue here in Ghana…But fixing it wouldn’t be that difficult. We just need to set up a proper system and collect the money that’s owed,” he said.
The discussion on the panel was centred on how policy, fintech, and the creative industry are interacting.
Sarkodie was joined on the panel by other prominent figures from the creative industries, such as filmmaker Juliet Asante, Chief Moomen, and KOD.
The 3i Africa Summit is a ground-breaking international gathering with the goal of transforming Africa’s economic environment via the prudent and sustainable distribution of capital.
The summit provides a forum for thought-provoking debates, creative problem-solving, and teamwork to promote long-term growth and development throughout the continent’s financial ecosystem.
Safo Newman unexpectedly burst onto the music scene late last year with his song “Akokoa.” He quickly became viral on social media and amassed a sizable number of plays on a variety of platforms.
While some online commenters, such as rap legend Sarkodie, are showered with compliments about “Ghana’s new kid on the block” for his skill and lovely song, others just keep hurling flaming darts at him. Newman, yelling obscenities at him. However, the early-30s singer claims he is not concerned about the online trolls.
Speaking with the Daily Graphic, Newman said that while he had read the offensive remarks, which included, among other things, descriptions of him as underweight and dishevelled, he was not at all concerned about them because his music was what really mattered to him.
He declared his intention to focus all of his energy on creating timeless music instead of obsessing over the criticism he received.
“When it comes to my appearance and the comments people make about it, I’m not particularly bothered. In fact, I see it as part of why I stand out. Those negative remarks about my appearance don’t faze me at all. What truly matters to me are the songs I create and the messages they convey, as well as the positive impact I can have on society,” he said.
Life in the limelight
Ghanaian rap icon Sarkodie is largely responsible for Safo Newman’s recent rise to prominence, which he is currently enjoying thanks to his song Akokoa.
His song is still making waves in the charts and gaining a lot of attention, especially after Sarkodie declared it to be a huge hit. In Ghana, it is currently the ninth most streamed song on Audiomack.
He acknowledged that he was still adjusting to his new position, but he promised to use the platform to become one of the most sought-after musicians the nation had ever seen.
“I have finally had the opportunity to meet Sarkodie who opened doors for me with his endorsement of my song. It is just the beginning of greater things to come and I am looking forward to doing amazing stuff with him. Being in the limelight these past days has been quite overwhelming for me but I feel great about it and I will use this opportunity to make more impact,” he added.
Dual role
Along with being a popular musician, the new sensation is also a committed educator. Providing insight into how he balanced his love of music with his dedication to schooling, he said balancing the two roles had not presented any major obstacles.
For him, it all comes down to staying focused and creating a schedule that accommodates his two passions.
“It’s all about being focused and maintaining a balance. Both my music career and teaching profession are dear to my heart, so I strive to blend them harmoniously,” he said.
The singer stated that he was very optimistic about the future and that he would like a team to help manage him effectively. The singer has not yet secured a management team for his music career.
Nevertheless, he reaffirmed that he was committed to creating excellent music and carrying out his teaching responsibilities even in the absence of a formal management structure.
“Currently, I am doing everything by myself and I am praying that I get a management team that will help me to do things better,” he said.
Staying relevant
Safo Newman’s main goal in the music business is to stay relevant. He is confident in his ability to eventually connect with his audience despite his unorthodox style.
He believed that because he was working hard to write songs that would endure, his fame would not be fleeting.
“I don’t confine myself to a specific genre. I draw from various influences, particularly classical music, to create music that transcends boundaries and I also believe that crafting music that leaves a lasting impact, regardless of trends or genres will make you stand out, and that is what I intend doing to stay relevant in our industry,” he said.
He said he was grateful for everyone’s support so far and promised to use this energy to make even more powerful music in the future.
Renowned rapper Sarkodie recently discussed the difficulties of being an independent artist in Ghana.
The “Otan” hitmaker revealed that he is an independent musician who depends only on funding to create his music. Sarkodie has been financing his own projects without label assistance, frequently taking advance payments from projected sales to cover production costs.
He talked about how difficult it is to make independent investments in his craft and then get paid after the product is released.
“For me as an independent artiste I solely depend on getting funding to make my music because it is very tough I don’t have a label I’ve been funding myself since so sometimes I get a upfront on my sales that I’ll be making to be able to make the product and when I make it back and now I can get back to receiving my revenues.”
I solely depend on getting funding to make my music because it's very tough, I don’t have a label – @sarkodie reveals
Popular Ghanaian actor John Bredu Peasah, better known by his stage name Drogba, from the acclaimed YOLO series, has been diagnosed with a potentially fatal disease called demyelinating disease.
Drogba has reportedly been battling the illness for the previous 24 months.
News of his illness broke out on social media on March 8 after Ghanaian actor, Jeffrey Nortey shared a flyer calling for financial assistance for the actor’s medical treatment.
Drogba, also known as Blah Charles in the hit YOLO series, portrays a “lover boy” who will stop at nothing to win the woman of his dreams.
The 2016 season of the Ghanaian teen TV show YOLO debuted. This television show is a continuation of Things We Do for Love, a Ghanaian television series. Regarding the difficulties they encounter during their adolescent years, it counsels and guides the young people.
According to Ghanaian Highlife musician Amandzeba, he is aware of the impact he has made, so he is not concerned about the lack of recognition and celebration for his work.
The seasoned Highlife musician, renowned for his heartfelt songs and enduring contributions to the Ghanaian music scene, emphasised the significance of pursuing one’s passion and finding personal fulfilment.
The crooner’s viewpoint refutes the widely held belief that recognition from others or public festivities are the only ways to measure success.
Regarding the influence his music has had, the “Kpalogo Y3de” hitmaker claimed that he feels honoured when people tell him they enjoy his music.
“People don’t necessarily have to celebrate you to know that you are doing well. I have had this conviction that I am celebrated when people tell me they love my music. I know I have done great songs and if people praise me for it, it is enough celebration.
“This is a country where Dr Kwame Nkrumah was overthrown after all he did for Ghana. Anything good that comes from this country will not be celebrated well so I take consolation from the fact that I am not doing music to be celebrated,” he said in an interview with Daily Graphic.
“So don’t feel bad as a musician that Ghana does not celebrate you. When you believe in yourself and the product you have, people will love you for it,” he added.
Amandzeba utilises One Ghana, a location on Spintex Road, to provide young artists with a platform to showcase their live performances and Highlife music.
Some of his songs, including Toffee, Aso, Medo, Kotosa, and Deeba, have won him multiple accolades from various organisations.
He said that because he performs traditional songs with a contemporary feel, he sees himself as the bridge that connects the living and the dead as well as the ancient and modern.
The Deputy Minister for Finance, Dr. John Kumah, has passed away aged 45 years.
The Ejisu MP died in the early hours of Thursday, March 7, after a short illness.
He leaves behind a legacy as a devoted family man, being survived by his wife, Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, and six children.
Notably, Dr Kumah served as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer for the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), where he played a crucial role in positioning NEIP as a key player in Ghana’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Under his leadership, NEIP trained 7,000 startups in 2018 through the Presidential Business Support Programme and provided financial support to 1,350 beneficiaries. Before his government role, Dr Kumah was a founding member and Managing Partner of Aduaprokye Chambers, a law firm, and also established Majak Associates Ltd, a building and construction company.
In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Kumah was recognized for his educational accomplishments, including a Doctorate in Business Innovation from the Swiss Business School in Switzerland and a Masters in Applied Business Research.
He also held an Executive Masters’ degree in Business Administration (Finance) from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).
Dr. Kumah’s academic journey began at the University of Ghana, where he earned Bachelor’s degrees in Economics with Philosophy and Law, followed by admission to the Ghana Bar in 2013.
Described as an entrepreneur, lawyer, politician, and preacher, Dr. Kumah viewed his various roles as a calling to serve humanity.
Ghanaian Afro-dancehall star, Shatta Wale will share the grand stage with Afrobeats genius – King Promise at the opening ceremony of the 13th All African Games in Accra on March 8, 2024 at the newly opened University of Ghana Sports Stadium.
Other great performers to grace the occasion include Highlife legends – Ebo Tayler and Pat Thomas not forgetting the South African singer and dancer, Kamo Mphela.
The games, which are slated for March 8–23, will feature a variety of sports. Tickets ranges from GHc50 to GHc500 and available on the official website. You can also purchase your ticket by dialing *713*23#.
— 13th African Games, Accra 2023 (@Accra2023AG) March 7, 2024
Over 4,000 athletes competing in 29 sports disciplines, eight of which are qualifying for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, will make the continental event memorable.The 13th African Games, scheduled for March 8–23, 2024, will take place in Accra, Kumasi, and Cape Coast.
As the month of March falls within Ghana’s month of independence from colonial rule, it is also known as Ghana Month, a time to celebrate Ghana’s culture and other historical occurrences that have given rise to the country.
Primary goals of the campaign are to promote and celebrate the nation’s rich cultural legacy and indigenous goods and services.
In honour of this year’s celebration, let’s pay attention to the contributions made by each of the “Big Six,” whose combined efforts resulted in the declaration of independence from colonial rule on March 6, 1957.
Among The Big 6 are: ▪️Kwame Nkrumah ▪️Ako Adjei ▪️Edward Akufo-Addo ▪️Joseph Boakye Danquah ▪️Emmanuel Obetsebi Lamptey ▪️William Ofori Atta
The Big Six
Brief Profile of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
Prominent Ghanaian statesman, nationalist leader, and pan-Africanist Dr. Kwame Nkrumah (1909–1972) was instrumental in the continent’s liberation and founding of the Republic of Ghana. Nkrumah was born in September 1909 in Nkroful, Gold Coast (now Ghana). His life story illustrates his steadfast dedication to the principles of African unification, independence, and self-determination.
Early life and education: Nkrumah came from a lowly background. His parents were retail traders and goldsmiths.
His early education at a Half Assini Roman Catholic elementary school set the stage for a lifetime interest in learning and intellectual endeavours.
Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah with Fathia
Following his graduation in 1930 from Achimota College, Nkrumah began working as a teacher, first in Elmina and Axim and then at a seminary.
Political awakening: Nkrumah made the decision to continue his education in the United States due to his growing interest in politics.
He enrolled at Pennsylvania’s Lincoln University in 1935 and studied the writings of Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin, delving into the literature of socialism.
His devotion to nationalist ideals was further strengthened by his exposure to the ideas of Marcus Garvey, a well-known Black American leader of the 1920s.
Political activism and Pan-African leadership:
Nkrumah actively participated in political activity during his stay in the United States. After organising the African Students’ Organisation of the United States and Canada, he was elected as its president.
His commitment to the larger cause of African liberation was demonstrated in 1945 when he organised the 5th Pan-African Congress in Manchester after returning to England.
Leadership in Ghana’s independence movement:
After twelve years away, Nkrumah returned to the Gold Coast in 1947 and took the lead in the campaign for independence.
In 1949, he started the Convention Peoples’ Party (CPP) after first working as the general secretary of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC).
Widespread support resulted from the CPP’s pledge to immediate self-government striking a chord with the public.
First Prime Minister and President of Ghana:
Nkrumah served as Ghana’s first prime minister when the country gained independence from British rule in 1957 as a result of a string of political demonstrations and actions.
He led an effective campaign in 1960 to make Ghana a republic, and a new constitution gave him broad legislative and executive authority when he took office as president.
First cabinet of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah
First cabinet of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah Challenges and economic policies: Nkrumah’s development of an increasingly authoritarian leadership style coincided with the implementation of large-scale, frequently expensive development projects.
Economic challenges, a rising foreign debt, and the abandonment of the Second Development Plan in 1961 led to labor unrest and a general strike.
One-party state and ouster: In 1964, Ghana officially became a one-party state with Nkrumah as its life president. However, internal strife, corruption, and economic woes continued to escalate.
During Nkrumah’s absence in Beijing in 1966, a military coup seized power in Ghana, marking the end of his political reign.
Legacy: Kwame Nkrumah’s legacy endures as a symbol of African nationalism, anti-colonialism, and pan-Africanism.
Despite the challenges and controversies of his political career, he remains an influential figure in Ghanaian and African history.
Generations of leaders dedicated to the advancement and independence of the continent are still motivated by his vision of an independent and united Africa.
At 820 hours today, Ghanaian chef Ebenezer Smith, also referred to as Chef Smith, came to an end of the longest cooking marathon ever completed by one person.
Chef Smith started his attempt to set a new Guinness World Record on February 1, 2024, with the goal of becoming the record holder for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.
Despite his earlier complaints about the lack of attendance at his cook-a-thon, last night’s event went extremely well, featuring a star-studded lineup that included Praye Tietia, Yaw Tog, Amerado, Kofi Jamar, and Asakaa Boys.
Many celebrities passed through the Amadia Shopping Centre at Spintex during this incredible challenge, including Kwaku Manu, Clemento Suarez, and Nana Ama McBrown, among many others, to help Chef Smith achieve the amazing feat.
Chef Smith aims to beat the official 119-hour record set by Alan Fisher.
Officially announcing the end of his cookathon, he wrote on Instagram, “Happy Independence Day Everyone!Thank You all for the love. This is for us this is for Ghana ????????”.
The renowned BAKHOLOKOE kingdom’s Paramount Chief Dr. Col. Kelvin Morgan sealed his vows to a lifetime marriage last Saturday in a royal wedding.
Col. Kelvin Morgan and his longtime fiancee, Queen Mother Mrs. Esther Morgan, was officially joined in marriage at the ceremony, which took place at LAPAZ. The event remained exclusive, with only a few distinguished guests in attendance, including dignitaries from throughout the continent of Africa.
Distinguished guests included Paramount Chiefs Aubrey Maleke and Jerry Mabea Mabea, who represented the Paramount Chiefs of the BAKHOLOKOE KINGDOM MONARCHY in South Africa, as well as Fidelia Graand-Galon, the extraordinary ambassador and plenipotentiary of the Republic of Suriname.
Prosecutor Kwesi Ofori, ambassadors Alexander Boateng and Flint, HRH Queen Unity Ndinyah, the Queen Mother of All African Women, BAKHOLOKOE MONARCHY, and others were among the notable visitors to the nation.
Representatives from the media fraternity, civil services, and senior law enforcement officers also attended the event.
Renowned for his commitment to promoting constructive transformation, Chief Dr. Col. Kelvin Morgan is currently spearheading an initiative to combat poor leadership. He also actively participates in programmes aimed at preparing African youth for a better future.
