Renowned Ghanaian musician and creative entrepreneur, Worlasi, has disclosed that he is satisfied with his royalties from the Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO).
Speaking on Entertainment Lounge on Atinka TV with Odefour DiAsa Paapa, he emphasized that while royalties are important, artists must focus on building sustainable businesses around their craft.
“Music has given me attention, but it is the business that keeps me running,” he stated. According to Worlasi, the debate over whether music or business is more important is unnecessary since both complement each other.
“The business must be taken seriously, and when the attention comes, you just have to draw your plans well and run a business with it,” – he added.
When asked whether the government is doing enough to support musicians financially, Worlasi argued that artists need to prove the industry’s economic value before demanding funding.
“Artists are very emotional people, so sometimes we don’t see our craft as a business. Before someone gives you money, they must be convinced that they will benefit. We need to prove that the entertainment industry generates revenue, not just that we need money,” he asserted.
He further noted that collective efforts would be more effective in securing government support.
“If we come together with a solid proposal proving that the industry can generate, say, $200,000 a month and we need $50 million in investment, they will listen. But individually, it won’t work.”
Touching on his involvement in the soundtrack business, Worlasi revealed that he discovered its potential after receiving an email from students and lecturers at NAFTI who wanted to use his songs for projects. This, he said, made him realize there was an untapped business opportunity. He later attracted the attention of animator Francis A. Brown, who also sought to collaborate with him.
“The beauty of the soundtrack business is that there is no ‘hit song pressure.’ You just have to be creative,” he explained, adding that it has become a lucrative and fulfilling aspect of his career.
Worlasi also spoke about Worlafest, an initiative he co-founded with Antoine Mensah to create a platform for emerging artists. He believes the festival has significantly helped young creatives and is committed to using it to assist more talents.
“When I was coming up, such platforms were rare, so I want to make sure others don’t struggle like I did,” he said.
Worlasi’s insights shed light on the evolving music industry, emphasizing the need for strategic planning, business acumen, and unity among artists.
Atinkaonline/Ebenezer Madugu