Patronise “traditional rap” to revive the music industry – Agya Koo Nimo
Veteran folk musician of high-life music, Agya Koo Nimo has advised contemporary musicians to avoid the use of Pidgin English and use more of “traditional rap” to promote the rich culture of Ghanaian songs.
He said that the music industry was dying due to high patronage of modern rap. He therefore admonished new artistes to value “traditional rap” as it portrays the unique Ghanaian culture.
The 86 year old leading folk musician said this at Amu Theatre, Central Campus at a workshop dubbed “The Legendary Agya Koo Nimo in a live music workshop and performance” on Thursday, 2nd November, 2017.
“Musicians are like painters who have to select the paints they want for their work. Therefore in Africa or Ghana in particular, our concern is the language. That is the Ghanaian decency practice.
“At the moment, some of the songs are in Pidgin English and these together with modern rap are destroying the music industry. Let’s endeavour to use traditional rap in our songs to revive the industry.” He admonished.
He warned musicians to act instinctively, exercise patience and sit down to write their songs properly before releasing them. “Make corporate studies, share ideas and opinions. There is something called rudiments of reading; desist from over reliance on the computer and learn the rules of quality music so you can breakthrough. Be versatile, dynamic and create contents of your own.” He cautioned.
He accused radio stations and DJs as responsible for the dwindling industry. He said radio stations and DJs must scrutinize songs before giving them airplay since their duty was not only to entertain but to educate as well.
The former President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) also advised parents to keep a closer eye on their children. “Let’s get closer to the children, create and have time with them. The problems of our children these days are bigger than that of ours. Therefore, it is important to know the kind of songs they listen to and sing so can we educate them on what to listen to and sing.” He advised.
Born, Kwabena Boa-Amponsah and baptized Daniel Amponsah, Agya Koo Nimo apologized to the people of Effutu for never setting foot in the town until he was invited by the Department of Music Education of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) to share his experience with the students.
By: Godlove Tetteh
Media Relations
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