Sherifa Gunu: Ghanaian Artistes Deserve Better Recognition

Sherifa Gunu, a Ghanaian songstress has raised concerns about the treatment of creatives in the country, particularly veteran musicians who have significantly shaped the nation’s music industry.

She argues that these legends often go unrecognized and disrespected, despite their immense contributions. In a recent interview with Graphic Showbiz, Sherifa lamented that Ghana tends to honor its icons posthumously or only after they gain international acclaim, a trend she finds deeply disappointing.

According to Sherifa, the lack of appreciation for veteran artistes reflects a broader cultural issue—one where the nation fails to celebrate its own until it is too late. She emphasized the need for a shift in how Ghana values its artistic pioneers, stressing that their legacies deserve acknowledgment while they are still alive. Comparing Ghana’s music industry to Nigeria’s, Sherifa noted that Nigerian artistes receive consistent support from their homeland, regardless of their career stage.

“Ghana only celebrates you when you die or when foreigners notice you. If I were Nigerian, I’d be bigger by now. We don’t respect our legends until it’s too late,” she remarked. Sherifa pointed out that while Ghana boasts incredible talent, the lack of structured support systems hinders growth. In contrast, she observed that Nigerian artistes enjoy unwavering local backing, even for subpar work, whereas Ghanaians often overlook homegrown talent until it gains external validation.

Sherifa also addressed misconceptions surrounding traditional music, arguing that critics often dismiss it without understanding its cultural significance. She cited global stars like Burna Boy and Angelique Kidjo, who seamlessly blend traditional sounds into contemporary music, as examples of how heritage can be celebrated on a global scale. “Those who say it’s old school don’t understand music. The same people dance to Burna Boy and Angelique Kidjo without realizing they’re enjoying traditional sounds. The difference is that others know how to promote it,” she explained.

When asked if she would encourage emerging artistes to explore traditional music, Sherifa advised caution. “Yes, but only if their heart is in it. Traditional music is powerful, but Ghana doesn’t support it enough. So if you do it, you must be ready to push it globally by yourself,” she said. Her comments underscore the need for systemic change in how Ghana nurtures and celebrates its creative talents, ensuring that legends receive their due while they can still appreciate it.