Stonebwoy is a renowned Ghanaian musician who has had a tremendous impact on the African music scene. In a recent interview on Afrobeats Podcast, he shared his thoughts on his journey in the music industry, the impact of an African mother’s love, and the need to grow interest in Ghanaian music for representation of Africa.
One of the key takeaways from the interview was Stonebwoy’s description of his upcoming album as the next dimension and the fifth album in his career. He emphasized the need to support our own people in the industry and to continue developing our culture. He expressed his gratitude for being alive and the challenges that come with navigating life as a musician. Stonebwoy also paid tribute to fallen icons in the music industry and emphasized the importance of recognizing that musicians and artists live two lives and that kind words and support mean a lot to them.
Stonebwoy reflected on the experiences that have led him to this point, from his first album Grade 1 to his fourth album Epistles of Mama. He also discussed the importance of music genres and staying grounded while adapting to changes. Stonebwoy highlighted the impact of an African mother’s love and the emotional bond that comes with it.
The interview also touched on the significance of Jamaica in African music and the importance of feeling a sense of oneness with lost promises. Stonebwoy stressed Ghana’s role in representing Africa and the success of Nigerian entertainment industry. While Nigeria has played a major role in African representation in the entertainment industry, Ghana has a role to play in representing what Africa really is. Ghana has produced incredible talents and festivals like Afro Nation and One Africa, and there is a need to uplift other Ghanaian talents to international platforms.
Stonebwoy acknowledged the decline of interest in Ghanaian music and the need to grow it back. The Ghanaian music industry needs to grow interest back to the level it was before. The majority of Ghanaians in the diaspora are not proud of the current level of interest in their music. Ghanaian Independence Day celebrations and the presence of Ghanaian artists in international markets were key factors in growing interest in Ghanaian music. Interest in Nigerian music is supported by the financial might of Nigerians interested in entertainment. Interest in Ghanaian music can be supported by Nigerians and Ghanaians in the diaspora putting their financial resources towards it.
Stonebwoy also highlighted the lack of access to certain rooms and spaces in the industry as a challenge for African artists. He discussed his album partnership with Def Jam and the need for increased interest in Ghanaian music. Stonebwoy’s album with is set to be released on April 28th and is a collaborative venture between Burlington Music and Def Jam. The head of Def Jam is a Nigerian brother who surprised Stonebwoy during a listening session in New York.
In conclusion, Stonebwoy’s reflections on his journey in the music industry, African mother’s love, and the need to grow interest in Ghanaian music for representation of Africa offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the African music industry. It is essential to support our own people in the industry and continue developing our culture. With increased interest and support, African music can continue to thrive and represent the richness and diversity of the continent on the global stage.
