Neglect of highlife allows Nigerians to claim it – Ben Brainy

Ghanaian musician Ben Brainy has ignited a discussion about Ghana’s music industry following his appearance on Bryt TV.

According to the HomeTown Records signee, Ghanaian musicians often abandon their traditional sounds in pursuit of newer trends, leaving a gap that Nigerian artists have strategically filled.

By fusing Highlife with Afrobeat, Nigerians have managed to rebrand and commercialize the genre, gaining international recognition while Ghana struggles to maintain its influence.

“We don’t hold onto our own for long. We started highlife, but now it’s the Nigerians who are making it big with it. We leave what we have and chase other things,” Ben Brainy lamented during the interview with El Baby.

He expressed concern that Ghanaians do not preserve their cultural and musical heritage, allowing Nigerians to dominate and claim ownership of Highlife music.

Highlife, a treasured Ghanaian genre, has significantly shaped African music. With pioneers like the Kumasi Trio, E.K. Nyame, E.T. Mensah, Nana Ampadu, King Bruce, Onyina, and Agya Koo Nimo, it remains a symbol of Ghanaian identity.

He urged Ghanaian musicians and industry players to be more intentional about preserving and promoting Ghana’s musical identity, rather than allowing foreign influences to overshadow it. He emphasized that if Ghanaians want to maintain ownership of Highlife, they must invest in the genre, push it globally, and take pride in their cultural heritage.

Ben Brainy’s remarks have renewed calls for Ghana to protect and promote Highlife, ensuring its legacy remains firmly rooted in the country’s rich musical history.

However, Ben Brainy believes that Ghana has not done enough to preserve and promote the genre.

In the meantime, the video to his song ‘Location’ has been released.  The song, which blends Afrobeat and highlife influences, showcases his signature sound and storytelling ability. The visuals complement the song’s theme, adding a vibrant and engaging experience for fans.

With ‘Location’, Ben Brainy is not only making waves in the industry but also reinforcing the importance of staying true to Ghanaian musical roots.

Source: Joy News