Ghanaian artiste Pope Skinny recently opened up about the migration of Ghanaian musicians to the West, shedding light on the challenges faced by artists in Ghana's music industry. In an interview with Accra 100.5 FM on October 9, the Hiplife star expressed his frustration with the lack of support for musicians in Ghana, particularly from the government, which he believes contributes to many artists seeking better opportunities abroad.
Pope Skinny revealed that he is currently working as a truck driver in America, a job he says he could not pursue in Ghana due to potential mockery. “I drive a big truck in America,” he shared. “I cannot do it in Ghana because I will be mocked.” He explained that the harsh realities of the music industry in Ghana, including financial instability, make it difficult for musicians to thrive.
There is nothing in this country to secure the future of musicians, Pope Skinny lamented, highlighting how many artists struggle financially, especially in their later years. He pointed out that musicians are not provided with social security benefits such as SNNIT (Social Security and National Insurance Trust) contributions, leaving them vulnerable as they age. This is why you’ll see creatives who are needy and asking for funds, especially in their old age. It’s not that they are irresponsible, he added.
The artist further criticized the system in Ghana, stating that musicians are often forced to rely on their savings for expenses like music videos and logistics. Even with endorsement deals, he said, they are not a consistent source of income. "If you don’t have a hit song, you will go hungry. Even if you save money, you’ll end up using the savings for paying music videos, and other logistics. Even if you get endorsement deals, how often will they come?" he questioned.
Pope Skinny also addressed the recent Supreme Court ruling that upheld the Food & Drugs Authority (FDA) ban on alcohol endorsements by celebrities. He expressed strong disapproval, saying the ban makes little sense given the financial benefits musicians and celebrities once received from such deals. He reminisced about the lucrative deals he and other musicians had with major local alcohol brands before the 2015 ban, which he believes was a significant source of income for artists.
Pope Skinny's comments reflect the growing dissatisfaction among Ghanaian artists regarding the lack of support and opportunities within the local music industry, pushing many to look for alternatives in the West.
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