Recently, the renowned Ghanaian musician, Edem, offered a perspective that challenged the predominant belief that language alone dictates an artist’s success in reaching broader audiences.
Emphasizing that the core of triumph lies beyond linguistic boundaries, Edem sheds light on a pivotal aspect often overlooked which is the undeniable influence of financial investments and resource allocation in shaping an artist’s trajectory in the music world.
In response to Nigerian gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey’s suggestion that Ghanaian gospel musicians could amplify their outreach by favoring English in their compositions, Edem however, acknowledged the significance of language while asserting its place as merely one factor in the music industry.
For Edem, the primary stumbling block isn’t language barriers but financial constraints, which hinder many artists from transcending borders.
In his opinion regardless of the language, an artist’s journey toward crossing boundaries is intricately linked to possessing the necessary resources and garnering recognition in their primary market.
“I acknowledge Nathaniel’s comment but you must back it with financial investments and adequate resources because no matter the English you sing without the necessary resources and primary market recognition your music won’t cross borders,”” Edem remarked during his appearance on UTV’s Showbiz Night.
Highlighting the essence of authenticity and comfort in artistic expression, Edem advocates for artists to use languages that best convey their messages. He emphasizes that an artist’s proficiency in communicating their narrative remains paramount, irrespective of the language chosen for their craft.
“Do what you are capable of, that is how to give your best so people comfortable singing in English should do that and those comfortable singing in other dialects should also do that exceptionally but in all of these you need the resources to put you on the bigger stage,” Edem advises.
Speaking further he stressed that attempting to translate expressions into English may not always capture the essence of the original, urging artists to embrace their strengths and authentically express themselves.
“As a composer what comes easy to you is what you go with. Translating proverbs or messages into English might not always capture the essence of the original expression instead, artists should focus on what comes most naturally to them to deliver their best work and not what Nathaniel Bassey is saying”.
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