Ghanaian musician Kuami Eugene, known as 'Rockstar', has spoken about his decision to leave gospel music for secular Afrobeats and highlife. In an interview with MyJoyOnline, he stated that the country's gospel scene is structured in a way that makes it difficult for newcomers to break through. He believes that the industry favours secular artistes over gospel acts trying to establish themselves. This has led him to focus on secular music, where he thinks talent alone carries an artiste further.
According to Kuami Eugene, the structure of Ghana's music industry makes it easier for secular artistes to gain popularity through social media. He pointed out that a single viral TikTok clip can turn an unknown artiste into an overnight sensation, something that rarely happens for gospel musicians. He noted that Afrobeats and highlife songs are more popular on social media platforms like TikTok, which helps young artistes gain recognition quickly.
Kuami Eugene also revealed that Ghanaian audiences tend to focus more on how gospel musicians look rather than the message their songs carry. He believes that this makes it harder for new gospel acts to win acceptance. He stated that instead of being moved by the presence of God, audiences often pay attention to an artiste's appearance, such as wearing a chain or having a radical style. This, he thinks, reduces the impact of the music.
Despite his efforts to build a career in gospel music, Kuami Eugene said he never achieved the breakthrough he wanted. He found it easier to gain recognition once he moved into secular music. He still writes and produces songs for several gospel musicians, revealing that he has not fully left gospel music behind. He believes that he is still doing the work of God by helping other gospel artistes.
Kuami Eugene intends to include at least one gospel-inspired track in every project he releases going forward. This is a way of catering to fans who still enjoy that side of his music. He recently released a new single titled 'Ajei', described as an upbeat track that is already gaining traction with listeners. The 'Wish Me Well' hitmaker continues to be a prominent figure in Ghana's music scene.
Kuami Eugene's comments highlight the challenges faced by gospel artistes in Ghana. He believes that the industry structure does not benefit upcoming gospel artistes. His decision to focus on secular music has led to significant success, but he still contributes to the gospel music scene behind the scenes. His experiences and insights provide valuable information about Ghana's music industry.
Kuami Eugene's story serves as an example of how the music industry can influence an artiste's career choices. His case raises questions about the priorities of Ghana's music industry and the challenges faced by gospel artistes. As he continues to release new music, fans will be watching to see how his career evolves.
Key points
- Kuami Eugene says Ghana's gospel industry prioritizes artistes' appearance over their music message.
- The musician believes that the industry structure does not benefit upcoming gospel artistes.
- Despite leaving gospel music, Kuami Eugene still contributes to the scene by writing and producing songs for other artistes.
