Obiba Sly Collins, a respected figure in Ghanaian highlife music, advocates for a shift in the mindset of young musicians. He emphasizes the critical importance of skill development and artistic independence as the foundation for a successful career. Collins believes that aspiring artists should prioritize honing their musical abilities rather than prematurely seeking record deals. This approach empowers them to take control of their artistic journey and build a strong foundation before entering into contractual agreements. He urges musicians to embrace technology as a tool for learning, creation, and promotion, and to seek mentorship from experienced professionals who can provide valuable guidance. Moreover, he stresses the importance of artistic individuality, encouraging young artists to discover their unique voice and style, which will enable them to navigate the dynamic and ever-changing music landscape. This foundational preparation, Collins believes, will better position them for navigating the complexities of the music industry.
Collins further emphasizes the role of music in addressing societal issues and promoting positive change. He believes that music should not only entertain but also educate and inspire. While acknowledging the importance of financial resources in the music industry, he stresses the need for aspiring musicians to develop a strong understanding of the business aspects of their craft. This includes financial management, marketing, and legal considerations, essential skills for sustaining a long-term career. He believes artists should view music as a business, understanding the financial dynamics and strategizing for long-term sustainability. By combining artistic talent with business acumen, musicians can establish fulfilling and prosperous careers.
Collins expresses strong optimism about the future of Ghanaian music, recognizing the immense potential within the industry. He believes that with greater global exposure, Ghanaian music can flourish on the international stage. Drawing from his personal experiences, including the challenges he faced releasing his debut album, “Yen Boa Ghana,” in the 1990s, he highlights the importance of collaboration and unity within the industry. He encourages stakeholders to work together, fostering an environment of support and mutual growth that propels Ghanaian music forward. He envisions a vibrant future where Ghanaian musicians achieve international recognition and contribute significantly to the global music scene.
The veteran musician also champions highlife music as a vital part of Ghana’s cultural identity. He encourages young artists to explore diverse genres but stresses the importance of preserving and promoting highlife’s legacy. He views highlife as a national treasure that requires concerted efforts from industry leaders to ensure its continuity and growth. He urges musicians to embrace their heritage while experimenting with new sounds, creating a dynamic fusion of tradition and innovation. This approach, he believes, will maintain highlife’s relevance while attracting new audiences.
Collins acknowledges the influence of Nigeria’s music market and encourages Ghanaian artists to leverage opportunities for growth and exposure within that market. However, he cautions against sacrificing originality in pursuit of commercial success. He believes that maintaining a unique artistic identity is crucial for standing out in a competitive industry. While cross-cultural collaborations can be beneficial, he stresses the importance of staying true to one’s roots and artistic vision. This authenticity, he believes, is what truly resonates with audiences and builds a lasting legacy.
Finally, Collins attributes the declining popularity of highlife to a lack of coordinated efforts by industry leaders to actively promote the genre. He urges stakeholders to invest in strategic initiatives that showcase highlife music to broader audiences, both within Ghana and internationally. This could include organizing festivals, supporting emerging highlife artists, and incorporating highlife education into music curricula. He calls for a collective effort to revitalize the genre, ensuring its continued relevance and celebration as a distinct and valuable part of Ghana’s musical heritage. He believes that with focused support and promotion, highlife can regain its prominence and contribute significantly to the global music landscape.
