Hip hop as been rumoured to have originated from Africa, but if the standard of Hip-hop in one of African’s most celebrated nation (Ghana) is anything to go by, then that rumour is far fetched.
This is because the average Ghanaian artist is into hip life (highlife with a little blend of hip-hop) not Hip-hop.
Hip-hop has not really unleash its potential in Ghana i.e. just about 10% of the artist are representing it.
Though Hip-hop is spreading across the country, but it is doing so in a slow pace and those who are religious followers of Hip-hop just settle with what the outside world offers.
Hip-hop reared its unbowed head in Ghana in the 90’s and right now there are few establish artist like Reggie Rockstone, Batman, Obrafour and Wutah who is the new sensation in the Ghana music industry. Apart from the established mcs’ there are still some few representing the underground.
Taking into consideration that Hip-hop is more than just music, a lot of people say its a way of life (but I prefer to call it a religion), the average Ghanaian is far from living this ay.
As expected, some quarters are helping to spread this religion the way it should be done : the most notable is the ‘music music’ production crew of tv3. But as we all know only a tree can not make a forest.
The gold coast as Ghana is formerly called is a very peaceful place and to my assessment, it is believed that hip-hop can break down the peace if fully represented.
Accra, the capital city boasts of about seven (7) radio stations while other regions are trailing behind.
Co-operate bodies as been helpful by bringing some top class Hip-hop artist from all over to grace the land.
The clubs and deejays’ (who are into highlife/hip life) are also part of the situation.
In conclusion, Ghana needs at least four to five years (4-5years) to compete favourably with the rest of the urban world.
MARCH 2006; PHLAMES
