Ghanaian rapper and singer Worlasi is drawing attention to the harsh economic pressures confronting musicians in Ghana, describing the profession as far more financially draining than many outsiders realise.
In a conversation with broadcaster Kafui Dey, he was asked what the experience of making music in Ghana is really like. His response was blunt.
“Bro, e hard pass. Just like ginger, it’s hard pass. If you don’t chop, you go sick and die. Because if you’re sick and you go to hospital, can you pay? Registration alone is GH¢550.
“It’s hard. I’m saying it like it’s funny, but it’s hard,” he admitted.
Worlasi said the difficulty of the industry is offset only by the emotional and human rewards that come with it. For him, the music itself and the relationships built through it are what make the struggle bearable.
“The music is what makes it fun. The people are what make it fun. Travelling is what makes it fun. You know people who don’t even understand your language but are connected to your music. These are the things that are saving us,” he said.
Apart from personal reflection, the artiste has consistently highlighted the wider challenges facing creatives in Ghana, especially the need for stronger systems that guarantee fair royalties and better financial protection for musicians.
Watch his remarks below.
