Stonebwoy Defends Dancehall, Champions Musical Diversity in Ghana
Renowned Ghanaian dancehall artiste Stonebwoy has dismissed claims that the dancehall genre is harmful to Ghana’s music industry, emphasizing its positive economic and cultural impact. Speaking in a recent interview on Hitz FM, Stonebwoy highlighted how dancehall festivals contribute significantly to the economy by creating jobs and driving tourism.
“Dancehall has put money in the pockets of hotels and airlines that bring foreigners to the country. It pays people to work during that week and creates numerous job opportunities,” he explained.
Stonebwoy argued that dancehall is not the root of challenges in the music industry but rather a thriving genre that supports many livelihoods. He criticized those who single out dancehall as a problem, suggesting that such views stem from a narrow belief that Ghanaian music should center on a single genre.
“I do not believe in that at all. Even if I used to, I don’t anymore. The idea of having one genre to push Ghanaian music is unrealistic. We need everyone,” he stated.
To reinforce his point, Stonebwoy referenced the United States, a global entertainment powerhouse, as an example of a country that thrives on musical diversity. He noted that the U.S. does not promote a single genre but embraces a wide variety of styles, contributing to its success in the global music scene.
Stonebwoy encouraged Ghanaian artists to explore different genres such as Afrobeat, dancehall, and hip hop without fear of criticism. He stressed that Ghana’s rich cultural heritage should inspire diverse musical expressions, which are essential for growth and recognition on the international stage.
“A country blessed with a rich cultural heritage should be allowed to express it in diverse ways,” he emphasized.
According to Stonebwoy, fostering diversity in music is not only important for individual creativity but also for the collective advancement of Ghana’s music industry. By embracing multiple genres, the industry can appeal to a broader audience, both locally and internationally.
Stonebwoy’s remarks come as a call to action for unity and open-mindedness among stakeholders in the industry. He believes that collaboration and acceptance of different musical styles will help Ghana’s music industry achieve its full potential, rather than focusing on dividing genres.
Ultimately, Stonebwoy advocates for a mindset that sees dancehall—and all other genres—as integral parts of Ghana’s musical identity and economic growth.
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