Confront social issues through your songs —Iwan tells colleagues

REGGAE/Dancehall artiste Iwan is challenging his fellow musicians to use their platforms to address pressing social ills.

The Who’s Bad hitmaker expressed concern that many artistes shy away from tackling sensitive topics for fear of losing followers, thereby diluting the potential impact of their music on societal issues.

In a recent interview with Graphic Showbiz, Iwan did not mince words, stating, “Most of our artistes are afraid to talk about issues like homosexuality that have become hot topics in our society.

“ I will always speak about it because that is what our songs are supposed to do. Let us be bold and address these issues, as our songs are meant to help correct societal ills”, he said.

Iwan whose real name is Abdul Razak further appealed to the media for support, expressing frustration at what he perceives as deliberate sidelining due to his lyrical choices.

Iwan who gained prominence on the Reggae/Dancehall scene with songs such as Who Is Bad and Thanks and Praise about a decade and a half ago lamented that despite making concerted efforts to promote his craft, he believes the media has not given him the recognition he deserves.

“The issue is always straightforward. The media is not promoting me. I am doing all I can, but I am not getting the support. The media have sidelined me, making it appear as if some of us are not trying.

“Some people don’t understand how a talented artist like Iwan is not gaining traction. Perhaps, they want us to conform to the trend of singing about immoral subjects, but I will always decline that and speak about positive issues that urgently need attention in our society”, he added.