In a compelling assertion, Ghanaian singer Efya dismissed the notion of comparing the Ghanaian and Nigerian music industries, emphasizing that Lagos, Nigeria’s vibrant cultural and economic hub, holds a music scene that surpasses the entirety of Ghana.
Efya attributed this distinction to Nigeria’s significant numerical advantage, asserting that the sheer size of the population places the Nigerian music industry at the forefront of the West African market.
During a recent interview with City 105.1 FM in Lagos, Efya delved into the intricacies that differentiate the music landscapes of the two neighboring countries.
She highlighted the pivotal role that numbers play in the contemporary music industry, emphasizing that the volume of listeners and consumers significantly influences the industry’s dynamics.
“Nigerian and Ghanaian music markets are not the same. Nigerians are way more than we are in terms of numbers. Numbers really matter now.
The number of people that will stream Nigerian music in Nigeria is different from the number of people that will stream Ghanaian music in Ghana.
The numbers are not the same,” Efya explained, offering a nuanced perspective on the disparities that extend beyond mere geographical boundaries.
In Efya’s view, Lagos stands as a monumental music hub, surpassing the entire nation of Ghana in musical influence and reach. The sheer magnitude of Nigeria’s population, particularly in Lagos, contributes to the unparalleled success and recognition of the Nigerian music industry on a global scale.
Dispelling the notion of rivalry, Efya advocated for collaboration between the two nations’ music industries. She argued that fostering a spirit of collaboration, rather than comparison, is the key to advancing the collective influence of Afrobeats in the future.
“There shouldn’t be any comparisons. What I believe that we should do is be more collaborative.
Find our vibes and put them together to advance what Afrobeats is going to be in the future; for us to be the gatekeepers of our own sound.
And I think that’s the power move,” she passionately expressed.
Efya’s perspective adds a thoughtful layer to the ongoing discourse about the global impact of African music, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation to propel the diverse and rich musical tapestry of the continent to greater heights.
As the conversation continues, Efya’s call for collaboration serves as a reminder that the strength of African music lies not in competition but in the collective celebration of its vibrant and evolving cultural expressions.
