The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mark Okraku Mantey, is urging musicians to establish strong relationships with DJs, as they play a crucial role in their journey to stardom by popularizing their songs through continuous play.
The minister cautioned that a lack of respect or strained relations with DJs could jeopardize artists’ chances of achieving success in the highly competitive music industry.
Highlighting the concerns expressed by DJs who feel undervalued and disrespected by artists despite their pivotal role in promoting musicians, Mr. Okraku Mantey emphasized the need for a change in this narrative. He called for mutual respect and understanding, stressing that both parties should recognize and appreciate their respective roles in the music ecosystem.
The minister made this plea during a recent stakeholder engagement organized by the Ministry of Information. The event aimed to gather insights from creatives and other participants in the creative space to support the promotion of the #playghana initiative.
During his address, the minister emphasized, “Performers, you need the DJs; respect them. You cannot achieve your desired level of success without showing them respect.”
“To the DJs, I know some of your challenges…you say the artistes don’t respect you. .you make them stars and they ignore you afterwards. For the sake of Ghana, please let sleeping dogs lie”
Mr Okraku Mantey also called on all stakeholders in the music industry to unite in promoting the #playghana initiative.
He urged churches, Gospel radio and TV programs, and presenters to be intentional about featuring Ghanaian content, emphasising the need for a collective effort to give local music the recognition and promotion it deserves.
#playghana Initiative
The #playghana initiative being championed by key institutions including the Ministry of Information, Ministry of Arts and Tourism, Ghana Folkloric Board, seasoned and emerging music talents, DJs among others, advocates for the promotion of Ghanaian music.
