Kofi Hayford, a prominent broadcaster from Joy FM, recently addressed the prevailing disrespect often associated with the disc jockeying profession during a guest appearance on the Road to Guinness Ghana DJ Awards 2024 show. During the show aired on October 25, 2024, he expressed his concerns about the negative perception that some Ghanaians hold toward DJs, considering their work as inferior. This sentiment has persisted over the years, causing frustration among DJs and those in the radio broadcasting field. Hayford emphasized that such attitudes should not be encouraged, as they undermine the talent and hard work involved in the craft.
In sharing a personal anecdote to highlight this issue, Kofi Hayford recounted a disheartening exchange with an old acquaintance. He revealed that an acquaintance from his school days had expressed disappointment over his career choice as a radio broadcaster, suggesting that he was too intelligent for such a profession and should have pursued a more prestigious path, like becoming a doctor. Ironically, this same acquaintance later approached him seeking a feature for his junior brother’s music on Hayford’s Tuesday radio show, “The Overdrive on Joy FM.” This experience prompted Hayford to question the dissonance in people’s perceptions of DJs and radio broadcasters, underscoring the lack of respect and understanding for the skills involved in these careers.
Kofi Hayford elucidated that before the inception of the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards, many individuals failed to appreciate the artistry and effort that goes into disc jockeying. While some progress has been made in changing this narrative through the recognition of DJs at events like the DJ Awards, Hayford asserted that the misconceptions about the industry still persist. He strongly contended that disco jockeying is not merely a pastime or hobby but involves a unique blend of science and art that requires skill, creativity, and dedication to execute effectively.
Furthermore, Hayford pointed out that many musical radio shows are heavily reliant on DJs for their success and longevity. According to him, without the substantial contributions of DJs, such shows may struggle to connect with their audience or maintain their popularity over time. This dependency underscores the significance of DJs in shaping the musical landscape and their essential role in entertainment. He called for a collective shift in attitudes toward DJs, urging people to abandon the harmful stereotypes that have long plagued the profession.
In expressing his gratitude toward Merqury Republic, the organization behind the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards, Hayford praised their effort in recognizing and celebrating the hard work of DJs over the past 12 years. He highlighted the importance of these awards in elevating the status of DJs and providing them with the recognition they deserve. Hayford vowed to continue acknowledging Merqury Republic’s contributions annually and commended their commitment to showcasing the talents of DJs in Ghana’s music industry.
Looking ahead, the 12th edition of the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards is scheduled to take place at the Palms Convention Center on November 9, 2024. This anticipated event will feature performances from some of Ghana’s most beloved DJs, further emphasizing the growing prominence and respect for the craft. Kofi Hayford’s advocacy for the DJ profession signals a broader push to reshape public perception and foster a more appreciative environment for disc jockeys and radio broadcasters alike. His statements serve not only as a critique of societal attitudes but also as a rallying call to elevate the recognition and appreciation of DJs in Ghana’s vibrant music scene.
