Absence of researchers has caused significant void in creative industry -Okyeame Kwame

AWARD-winning Ghanaian rapper/songwriter Okyeame Kwame has indicated that the absence of researchers and pop culture experts in the creative sector has left a significant void.

He pointed out that it was very critical on the part of industry stakeholders and policymakers to recognise the importance of these experts and take steps to incorporate their expertise into the creative ecosystem since their absence threatens the industry’s growth and sustainability.

“Our music industry for instance lacks balance. We have artistes who create captivating music, producers who craft amazing beats and talent managers who nurture emerging talents. But what we are lacking now are researchers, pop culture experts and academia to bring in a flair of balance. And so, at a point, we would need these researchers to fill in the knowledge gap in the industry,” he stated.

In his contribution as a speaker on the Graphic Showbiz Twitter(X) Dialogue series on the topic “Era of Entertainment Punditry” recently, the Woara hit-maker said the role of researchers and pop culture experts in Ghana's music industry cannot be underestimated, as they can help preserve and document the rich cultural heritage embedded in Ghanaian music.

“I am confident that these experts can provide in-depth analyses of various music genres in Ghana by helping to identify trends, influences and innovations within the industry.

“This knowledge can be invaluable for artistes looking to push the boundaries of their creativity and create music that resonates with both local and international audiences.

“These experts can conduct market studies to understand consumer preferences and trends in the music industry. This insight can be instrumental in helping artistes and record labels tailor their music to the desires of their audience, ultimately leading to increased success and sustainability in our industry,” he explained.