Controversial Ghanaian singer Shatta Wale has claimed that entertainers in Ghana are not valued as much as their Nigerian counterparts.
Speaking during a recent episode of The Honest Bunch Podcast, the musician argued that the lack of appreciation for celebrities in Ghana has left many artistes struggling financially despite their fame.
Reflecting on his early career, Shatta Wale recalled that he endured financial hardship even after becoming a well-known figure in Ghana. According to him, he relied on taxis to attend performances and was at one point accommodated by his girlfriend, who lived with her parents.
“Nigerians appreciate success, Ghana doesn’t appreciate success. As a star, I was sleeping on the streets despite how big I was. At one point, my girlfriend, who was living with her parents, was the one accommodating me,” he said.
He added, “Even as a top Ghanaian artiste back then, I took taxis to shows. Not just me—a lot of Ghanaian artistes did the same. Ghanaian artistes earn pennies, while their Nigerian counterparts earn big.”
Shatta Wale urged fellow Ghanaian musicians to take a cue from Nigeria’s entertainment industry by raising standards and positioning themselves for greater financial success.
BACKSTORY:
Shatta Wale has repeatedly criticised Ghana’s entertainment industry, arguing that musicians and other creatives are not adequately rewarded or celebrated despite their contributions. Over the years, he has compared the Ghanaian music scene with Nigeria’s, often praising Nigeria for providing better financial opportunities, stronger industry support and greater recognition for successful artistes.
In his latest appearance on The Honest Bunch Podcast, the award-winning singer reflected on his early struggles, revealing that fame did not shield him from financial hardship. He recalled relying on taxis to attend performances and staying at his girlfriend’s parents’ home because he could not afford his own accommodation at the time.
Using his experience as an example, Shatta Wale urged Ghanaian artistes to raise their standards and called for greater appreciation and investment in the country’s entertainment industry, insisting that creatives deserve better support to thrive.
