Renowned filmmaker and CEO of Pidgen Music, Panji Anoff, has urged Ghanaian musicians to embrace their unique identity instead of adopting foreign sounds and languages to gain global relevance.
Speaking with broadcaster Kafui Dey as monitored by MyNewsGh, Panji argued that Ghanaian music risks losing its cultural soul when artists mimic Jamaican patois or attempt to recreate reggae styles synonymous with international icons.
“They don’t want a Ghanaian who sounds like Bob Marley,” he cautioned. “They don’t want a Ghanaian who sounds like Vybz Kartel or Beenie Man. They want a Ghanaian who sounds like a Ghanaian.”
Panji explained that what sells an artist is not just rhythm or lyrics but cultural authenticity.
“An artist is not selling music. Really, what they are selling is an identity,” he emphasized.
Using Bob Marley as an example, Panji noted that his global influence was tied to the lifestyle and lived experiences he represented.
“Bob Marley represents Rastafari. He represents the downtrodden in Jamaica,” he said. “His identity is a part of his music.”
He stressed that Ghanaian musicians will unlock international demand only when they stop imitating others and instead reinforce what makes their sound uniquely Ghanaian.
