Former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey, has urged young Ghanaian musicians to champion Highlife music and resist over-reliance on foreign sounds in their songs.
Speaking on the Joy Super Morning Show, Mr Okraku-Mantey said many emerging artistes appear hesitant to fully embrace Highlife, opting instead to blend their music with international influences because they believe that is what sells.
“But you know, they themselves don’t believe in Highlife. As a people, we are always chasing something outside,” he said, stressing that the genre remains central to Ghana’s cultural identity.
According to Mr Okraku-Mantey, Highlife is a defining sound that distinguishes Ghanaian music on the global stage and should be intentionally promoted and preserved.
He cited President John Mahama’s observation that Ghanaians have long shown a preference for foreign products—a trend that has influenced musical tastes.
“You find it in our music, and it’s not because of these young ones. Including myself, including the people who performed in the 70s. They’ve all been chasing foreign sounds because the consumer himself has a taste for foreign products,” he added.
Mr Okraku-Mantey’s call comes amid growing discussions in Ghana’s music industry about the need to balance contemporary influences with traditional genres, ensuring that Highlife continues to thrive even as global music trends shape local sounds.
He encouraged musicians, producers, and fans alike to consciously support Highlife, noting that its preservation is not only a cultural responsibility but also a way to position Ghanaian music prominently on the world stage.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com
