Veteran Highlife musician JA Adofo has raised concerns about the struggles facing Ghanaian musicians, calling on authorities and industry stakeholders to take urgent steps to improve the welfare of entertainers.
The legendary musician believes many artistes have been left without adequate support despite their contributions to Ghana’s music heritage.
Speaking on Experience in Life with Nayas, JA Adofo said although he feels he is approaching the latter stages of his life and career, he wants the next generation of musicians to enjoy better conditions.
He argued that entertainers in some other African countries, particularly Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, receive stronger support and recognition compared to their Ghanaian counterparts.
Using Nigerian comedy duo Aki and Pawpaw as an example, he said their success reflects how well entertainers can be supported when the industry provides the right structures.
“Musicians in Ghana are going through difficult times. Some of us are nearing the end of our lives, but I plead that things are addressed for the current generation of musicians. If you go to Nigeria or Ivory Coast, that’s not how their entertainers suffer. Just look at Aki and Pawpaw, the wealth they have and the way their industry takes care of them. When you compare that to Ghana, it’s very disheartening,” he said.
The Highlife icon also opened up about his personal achievements, revealing that he owns a house in Accra, where he currently resides, as well as another property in his hometown.
Reflecting on his career years, JA Adofo noted that owning vehicles was one of the major aspirations for musicians at the height of their success.
He disclosed that he once had a fleet of about seven cars, but most have deteriorated over the years, leaving him with only one.
“At the peak of my career, I bought about seven cars, but they are all damaged now. The last car I was using was a BMW, but my doctor advised me to stop driving for certain reasons, so I’ve parked it. These days, it’s my son who drives me around,” JA Adofo further stated.
Below is a video of his remarks.
@nayaas.official "Musicians in Ghana are going through difficult times." – J.A. Adofo Experiences in Life with Nayas 1. #nayas1 #angeltv #jaadofo
♬ original sound – Nayaas Official
