According to renowned Ghanaian musician Edem, language plays a more important role in the music industry than linguistic barriers. He emphasizes that allocating resources and making financial investments are more important for success in the industry than the language in which the music is presented.
Edem offers his viewpoint in reaction to Nathaniel Bassey, a gospel singer from Nigeria, who suggested that Ghanaian gospel musicians should sing more in English in order to attract a wider audience. He accepts Bassey’s observation, but argues that an artist’s worldwide influence is not solely determined by language.
Edem’s submission on UTV Showbiz Night highlighted the close relationship between resource allocation and financial investments in the music industry.
This perspective emphasizes that, regardless of language, an artist’s capacity to traverse boundaries is intimately linked to possessing the required finances and primary market recognition. It suggests that financial limitations, not language obstacles, represent a more important obstacle for many musicians.
Edem underlined the significance of artists feeling at ease in their chosen languages, acknowledging that musicians naturally gravitate toward languages that effectively transmit their themes.
He maintained that regardless of the language used, an artist’s ability to communicate their ideas clearly is crucial.“I acknowledge Nathaniel’s comment but you must back it with financial investments and adequate resources because no matter the English you sing without the necessary resources and primary market recognition your music won’t cross borders”
“Do what you are capable of, that is how to give your best so people comfortable singing in English should do that and those comfortable singing in other dialects should also do that exceptionally but in all of these you need the resources to put you on the bigger stage.”
Edem encouraged performers to focus on their special skills and express themselves honestly. He emphasized that the ease with which a message is given is vital, regardless of whether a singer is comfortable singing in English or another dialect.
“As a composer, you should always go with what comes naturally to you. Proverbs and messages may not always translate well into English; therefore, in order to produce their finest work, artists should concentrate on what comes most easily to them rather than what Nathaniel Bassey is saying.
Music is about money and resources, not language – @iamedem #UnitedShowbiz pic.twitter.com/b1yAoXjJwr
— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) December 10, 2023
