Six Ghanaian musicians have successfully combined their music careers with professional training and careers outside the entertainment industry. These musicians work or train in fields including healthcare, accounting, IT, graphic design, pastoral ministry, and sound engineering. Their stories highlight the diverse professional lives of Ghanaian musicians beyond their stage presence. This feature explores the qualifications, careers, and musical journeys of these talented individuals.
Philipa Baafi, a gospel singer, is a notable example of a musician who pursued a second profession. She returned to school to train as a Physician Assistant and was inducted into the Medical and Dental Council in August 2023. Baafi graduated with first-class honours from her Physician Assistant programme in April 2024. She has also established Philibells Medical Centre, where she is involved in health-related activities and outreach programmes. Baafi continues to release new music while maintaining her medical career.
OG Abrantie, a rapper, balances his music career with a profession as an accountant. His music focuses on preserving and promoting Hiplife, a genre he is passionate about. In September 2026, he argued that Ghana needs to claim and document Hiplife as its own musical identity. OG Abrantie's recent musical work includes the EP "Is It Elementary?", released in May 2026. He has also released singles such as "Jawule", "From From", and "Journey".
Israel Ofori, a gospel musician, holds a degree in Management with Computing from Regent University. He works as an IT professional while pursuing his music career. Ofori started singing in church at a young age and later became involved in gospel ministry and music direction. He has released songs such as "Aseda", "Ene Wo", "My Everything", and "Wo Fata". Ofori has also hosted a programme focused on gospel and Christian entertainment on Sunny FM.
Epixode, a reggae and dancehall musician, has a professional background in visual arts. He is a graphic designer and has worked on projects such as designing the Shatta Movement logo. Epixode won Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year at the 2021 Ghana Music Awards. His music career continues to thrive while he pursues his visual art interests. Epixode's performances blend music, art, and visuals to create a unique experience for fans.
Nii Okai, a gospel musician, and Nacee, a musician with a background in sound engineering and music production, are also examples of musicians balancing entertainment with other careers. Nii Okai's pastoral work and Nacee's sound engineering expertise demonstrate the diverse professional lives of Ghanaian musicians. These individuals have pursued careers that complement their music journeys, showcasing their talents and dedication to their craft.
The stories of these six Ghanaian musicians demonstrate that success in the entertainment industry does not have to be limited to music alone. Their professional careers outside entertainment highlight their versatility and commitment to personal growth. By balancing multiple careers, these musicians set an example for others in the entertainment industry.
Key points
- Philipa Baafi, a gospel singer, pursued a second profession as a Physician Assistant.
- OG Abrantie balances his music career with a profession as an accountant.
- Israel Ofori works as an IT professional while pursuing his music career.
