Fashion entrepreneur Osebo the Zaraman has opened up about his approach to music, revealing that he is more attracted to songs that carry valuable messages than those created mainly for entertainment.
The fashion personality said he pays close attention to the lessons and ideas contained in songs, explaining that music without substance rarely holds his attention.
Speaking in an interview on Hitz FM with Kwame Dadzie and Doreen Avio, Osebo said the message behind a song is the key factor that determines whether he keeps listening or skips it.
“I’m saying this because it’s my point of view. Every piece of music I listen to teaches me something, so I don’t listen to music that doesn’t make sense,” he said.
According to Osebo, music should serve a deeper purpose than providing a good rhythm or an enjoyable moment. He believes songs should inspire listeners, offer wisdom, and communicate lessons that remain useful beyond entertainment.
“That’s why I say there’s wisdom in gospel music, there’s wisdom in funeral songs, and many highlife songs carry gospel-like messages. It’s the words in a song that make me eager to listen to it,” Osebo added.
He explained that his admiration for gospel, funeral songs, and traditional highlife music comes from the richness of their lyrics and the life experiences reflected in their messages.
“If I’m playing a song I’ve never heard before and I don’t hear any sensible advice in it, I skip it,” he said.
For Osebo, the strength of a song lies in its words rather than just its production or beat. He noted that meaningful lyrics have the ability to create a deeper connection with listeners.
“I even dance to funeral songs. I can listen to them while crying and still be nodding my head. I love Awoyo songs,” he disclosed.
The fashion entrepreneur further highlighted his love for Awoyo funeral songs, saying their emotional nature does not take away from the impact of the messages they carry.
“Sometimes the music gets deep inside me; it’s almost like a spirit. That’s just who I am. I can play one particular song for an entire month,” he said.
Osebo also reflected on changes in the music industry, arguing that many older songs carried stronger messages about morality, life, and personal growth than some contemporary releases.
“The wisdom and advice in the songs from the olden days are different from the kind of music many people make today,” he said.
He emphasised that although modern music has evolved with improved sounds and production, some songs have shifted focus from storytelling and meaningful messages to entertainment value alone.
Watch his remarks below.
