Ghanaian musician Mzbel has opened up about the challenges she faced in the early stages of her career, revealing how the music industry struggled to accept her unique style and image.
Speaking in an interview on Vibes Central, she said she felt exposed and unsupported despite her contributions to the industry.
“The industry gave me up. It put me out there to be crucified, punched, torn apart, and stepped on. It did so much for me, it offered no protection because I came in with a style the industry wasn’t ready for,” she stated.
Mzbel explained that at the time, female artists were largely expected to conform to specific images—either gospel singers with conservative appearances or hip-life performers with a more rugged style.
“You know, as a female artist, you either come and sing your gospel song, wear your maxi dress, or you do your hip-hop, like hip-life music, and wear your baggy clothes,” she said.
She noted that her bold and feminine stage presence, characterised by short skirts and confident performances, set her apart but also drew criticism.
“I came in feminine, wearing short skirts, bikinis, on stage free, confident, and happy. For me, it was all about fun. The industry wasn’t used to that, so they tried to ‘polish’ me in ways I couldn’t understand,” she added.
Her comments shed light on the evolving expectations within Ghana’s music industry and the pressures faced by female artists navigating identity and expression.
