Rapper Medikal has raised fresh concerns about the structure of Ghana’s music industry, particularly the low returns artistes receive from royalties despite the high value of their work.
In a video posted by BBC News Pidgin on Friday, April 17, the “Omo Ada” hitmaker explained that while some artistes command significant performance fees, the lack of a strong royalty system makes it difficult to sustain a career from recorded music alone.
According to him, top-tier performers in Ghana can charge as much as GH¢1 million for shows, although fees often fluctuate depending on the event and negotiations.
However, he noted that many people doubt such figures due to the weak financial structures surrounding the industry.
“Sometimes if I go play a show, my charge fit be like GH¢1 million… but people no dey believe because the system no clear,” he said.
Medikal contrasted the situation in Ghana with more developed music markets like the United States, where a single hit song can generate long-term income for an artist through royalties and licensing.
“In America, one song can take care of you for like 10 years. But here, we dey survive by playing shows, moving up and down just to make ends meet,” he explained.
He further highlighted the financial burden on artistes, pointing out that they often have to pay multiple stakeholders—including producers, DJs, and even media personalities—to promote their work.
The rapper also criticised the current royalty distribution system, suggesting that some collective bodies pay artists as little as GH¢100 to GH¢120 over extended periods, which he described as unsustainable.
“If after years, a whole creative body gives an artist just GH¢100, then the structure is not solid,” he added.
His comments add to ongoing conversations about the need for reforms in Ghana’s music industry, particularly in areas of royalty distribution, digital monetisation, and institutional support for creatives.
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