Ghanaian Afro-soul and traditional music powerhouse Sherifa Gunu has voiced her disappointment over the lack of recognition and support for veteran musicians in Ghana’s creative industry, especially those who have significantly shaped the country’s music identity.
In an exclusive interview with Graphic Showbiz, the singer criticized what she described as a culture of posthumous praise, arguing that many of Ghana’s music legends are only celebrated after death or when they receive validation from abroad.
“Ghana only celebrates you when you die or when foreigners notice you. If I were Nigerian, I’d be bigger by now. We don’t respect our legends until it’s too late,” she said.
Sherifa Gunu, known for her powerful voice and commitment to preserving Ghanaian traditional music, rose to fame in the early 2000s with her electrifying performances and culturally rooted sound. A former dancer and a celebrated performer, she has long been a vocal advocate for Ghanaian heritage in mainstream music.
Drawing comparisons to Nigeria, she expressed admiration for how Nigerian artists receive continuous support at home regardless of the quality of their output. “Ghana has talent but no structure. Nigerians support their own, even if the song isn’t that good. In Ghana, you can release a classic, and people ignore it until someone from abroad praises it,” she lamented.
She further challenged the negative perceptions surrounding traditional music in Ghana. According to her, many who dismiss traditional sounds fail to realize they’re enjoying those very elements in global hits by artists like Burna Boy and Angelique Kidjo.
“Those who say it’s old school don’t understand music. The same people dance to Burna Boy and Angelique Kidjo without realising they’re enjoying traditional sounds. The difference is that others know how to promote it,” she explained.
Sherifa, who also champions women’s empowerment through skill development, encouraged young artists to pursue traditional music only if they are truly passionate. “Traditional music is powerful, but Ghana doesn’t support it enough. So if you do it, you must be ready to push it globally by yourself.”
Calling for a cultural shift, Sherifa urged stakeholders to honour and support legends while they are still alive, insisting that this change is crucial to preserving Ghana’s rich musical heritage.
Story by Obaapa Janee/ahotoronline.com
