Ghanaian comedian and musician David Oscar has expressed deep frustration over the state of the creative industry in Ghana, suggesting that the environment is so stifling that it forces talents to either join politics or leave the country altogether.
Reacting to a Facebook post by veteran musician Rex Omar on the passing of highlife legend Dada KD which was sighted by MyNewsGh, David Oscar—who now lives in the United States—revealed that he put his career on hold in Ghana due to the lack of supportive structures for creatives.
“That’s why I left,” he began in a passionate comment. “Ghana 🇬🇭 is not very enabling for us creatives. The only quasi-enabling sector for most creatives in Ghana is to join active politics and be committed to a party, and hope that that party comes to power so that your ‘bread could be buttered’…”
David’s comments came after Rex Omar attributed Dada KD’s death to depression, a claim that sparked concern and reflection among the entertainment community.
David Oscar suggested that the only way to survive as a creative in Ghana is through partisan allegiance—a path he personally rejected.
“And if you aren’t interested in joining active politics like some of us? You better get out of that shit hole before depression kills you off. (To whom it may concern),” he added bluntly.
His words have since ignited a wider conversation about mental health in Ghana’s creative circles, with many questioning the sustainability of careers in music, comedy, and film without external support or political alignment.
Though currently away from the spotlight, David Oscar’s commentary shines light on the unseen struggles behind the scenes for Ghanaian artists—and issues that remain unresolved.
