Ghanaian rapper, Okyeame Kwame, is pushing for more recognition for instrumentalists in Ghana’s music industry, saying their work deserves far more attention than it currently gets in award schemes like the Telecel Ghana Music Awards(TGMAs).
Speaking on Daybreak Hitz on April 13, the rapper said too much credit often goes to headline artistes, while the people who help build the sound of the music are left out of the spotlight.
“The music that we make, to be honest, is being curated by producers and live musicians. They do more of the work than we take for the award,” he said.
He noted that the current awards structure only gives limited space to live musicians, something he believes needs to change if the industry is to properly reflect everyone’s contribution.
“I think instead of just one award for live musician, there should be one for saxophonist of the year, one for lead guitarist, one for drummer, and even backing vocalists (BVs) separately,” he suggested.
He added that expanding the categories would not only give credit where it’s due but also push musicians to improve their craft.
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“It is very important that we encourage the real musicians who are creating the music for us, the artistes, to shine. They must also be recognised,” he said.
When asked whether he had pushed for such changes during his time as a board member of the awards scheme, the rapper admitted he could not confirm if he formally made the proposal.
“Yes, once or twice… I think twice,” he said, adding jokingly, “Maybe. I also love live music.”
He also linked his longevity in the industry to live performance, saying it has kept him active and relevant over the years.
“Sometimes people ask me why I’m still relevant, why I’m still performing week after week. It is because I play live music,” he noted.
