Entertainment

Ded Buddy calls for urgent reforms in music industry

Ghanaian R&B singer and songwriter Eric Kwasi Turkson, better known by his stage name Ded Buddy or Cwesi, has called on the government to take action to improve the way the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) operates.

His appeal follows mounting worries that, in spite of their music’s extensive distribution on numerous platforms, Ghanaian musicians are not being fairly compensated for their labour.

He revealed that after six months of their music being played on radio, television, and streaming services, many musicians only receive GH¢100 to GH¢200 in royalties.

“This is a crisis that threatens the survival of an industry that has the potential to generate significant revenue for our economy—it is not just an insult to the creative community,” he said.

He mentioned that Ghana has the talent and cultural clout to assert its legitimate share of the global music industry, which is worth billions of dollars.

He cautioned, though, that the nation runs the risk of missing out on economic opportunities in the absence of a transparent and effective Collective Management Organisation (CMO).

“Even though their music is widely consumed, the lack of proper rights management discourages investment, stifles growth, and forces many musicians into financial hardship,” he added.

For this reason, he demanded that CMO’s management be changed in order to guarantee equitable remuneration for all musicians, including producers and songwriters.

He emphasised how crucial it is to set up a functional CMO that ensures an open and fair distribution of profits.

Ded Buddy cited prosperous examples from nations like South Africa and Nigeria, whose music industries have flourished due to effective royalties collection and distribution.

“Ghana must not be abandoned,” he declared. Jobs for producers, engineers, marketers, event planners, and others are created by a flourishing music industry.

Additionally, it enhances the country’s standing as a centre of culture, drawing in foreign partnerships and tourists.

Ded Buddy added that organisations prepared to offer tracking systems for radio and television are part of the Alliance for Change in the Ghana Music Industry, of which he is a member, along with other important stakeholders.

The goals of these systems are to guarantee musicians receive just compensation and get rid of the inefficiencies that GHAMRO is currently experiencing.

Under the previous Attorney General, the Alliance pushed for a licence to establish a new CMO, but they haven’t seen any results yet. He called on the Attorney General and the President to step in and create a new, accountable, and transparent CMO that genuinely serves creatives.

He emphasised that while their creations benefit others, Ghana’s musicians, producers, and songwriters cannot be ignored any longer.

He declared, “This is a pivotal moment to address the injustice and put the music industry on a path to prosperity. To make this a reality, we are prepared to work with your office. Our music is an essential component of Ghana’s economic and cultural identity and serves as more than just entertainment. Let’s empower those who create it, so that it fulfils its proper function.”

Entertainment

Enuonyam Releases New Single “Be Still” Featuring Luigi Maclean

Gospel minister Enuonyam has on, March 28, released her new single, ‘Be Still’, featuring worship leader Luigi Maclean.

Written by Joe Mettle, this song is a divine reminder that in the midst of life’s storms, God remains our refuge and strength.

Accompanied by a visually moving music video, Be Still is now available on all streaming platforms and YouTube.

Inspired by Psalm 46:10—“Be still, and know that I am God”—the song carries a deep message of surrender, trust, and confidence in God’s unfailing presence.

Speaking about the song, Enuonyam shares, “No matter what we go through, the Lord is with us. He calls us to rest in Him, knowing He is in control.”

This song is more than just music—it is a call to worship, an invitation to lay down burdens, and a declaration of faith in God’s sovereignty. As Enuonyam and Luigi Maclean minister together in this heartfelt piece, listeners are encouraged to reflect, trust, and rest in God’s perfect will.

The video captures the essence of worship, drawing viewers into a moment of deep reflection and surrender before the Lord.

About Enuonyam

Enuonyam is a devoted worshipper, singer, and songwriter whose heart burns for the presence of God. She is committed to leading people into intimate encounters with the Lord through music and the ministry of worship.

WATCH VIDEO HERE: https://youtu.be/A07XByuk6WA?si=FVOlZ55VCirXtC0j

Entertainment

Kafui Danku upbeat about future of creative industry

Kafui Danku

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Film Authority (GFA) and celebrated actress, Kafui Danku, has expressed confidence in the future of Ghana’s creative industry after attending the 24-Hour Economy conference at the Bank of Ghana on Tuesday in Accra.

The event, designed to boost the creative arts and tourism sectors, brought together top leaders, policymakers, and industry players to discuss how Ghana’s economy could thrive beyond the usual working hours.

Key figures at the event included the Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Dzifa Abla Gomashie, the presidential advisor on the 24-Hour Economy, Goosie Tanoh, and respected legal expert, Mrs Betty Mould-Iddrisu. Their presence showed the government’s commitment to making the creative industry more vibrant and financially rewarding.

The discussions centered on how film, music, and tourism could function around the clock, creating jobs and new opportunities for creatives.

Kafui Danku, a strong advocate for the film industry, shared her excitement about the initiative. In a social media post, she hinted at “exciting times ahead,” sparking discussions among creatives eager to see how this policy will benefit them.

Many believe this could be a turning point for Ghana’s entertainment sector, making nightlife, cinemas, music shows, and tourism activities more profitable and globally competitive.

The National Film Authority (NFA), which plays a key role in shaping the future of Ghana’s film industry, was also actively involved in the discussions.

A successful implementation of the 24-Hour Economy could mean more job opportunities, increased revenue, and a stronger international presence for Ghana’s creative sector.

As conversations continue, industry players remain optimistic about the possibilities ahead.

The hope is that with the right policies and government support, Ghana’s entertainment and tourism sectors will see massive growth, benefiting both industry professionals and the nation as a whole.

By Linda Abrefi Wadie