Go to school, talent not enough to survive —Ja Rule to GH creatives

WHILE talent may have been enough to propel one into the spotlight in the past, American rapper Ja Rule advises Ghanaian creatives it is no longer sufficient, especially in today’s rapidly evolving world where new trends, such as artificial intelligence, are transforming the creative space.

Instead, he believes enhancing their skills through formal education is key to unlocking their full potential and becoming exceptional musicians. It will equip them with the necessary knowledge to adapt and stay ahead of the curve.

The Always on Time crooner shared his thoughts with the media following a brief tour of the National Museum in Accra on Monday, March 31, 2025, aimed at familiarising himself with Ghanaian culture.

According to him, staying current with industry trends and technological advancements is vital in the fast-moving music sector.

"As creatives and musicians, it's essential to make education an integral part of your journey. While talent is a great starting point, it's no longer enough to rely solely on natural ability. 

“The world needs more than just your talent; it needs exceptional individuals who can elevate their craft through knowledge, skills and dedication. To stand out in the competitive music industry, you must be willing to continuously learn, grow and refine your skills. 

“It's not just about learning music theory or instrumentation; it's about developing a deeper understanding of the music industry, its trends and its demands. Investing in your education is investing in your future. 

“It's a commitment to yourself and your craft, and it will pay off in the long run. Don't just rely on your talent; take the initiative to learn, grow and become exceptional musicians. The world needs more talented and educated musicians,” he advised.

He also stressed that prioritising education could help artistes develop unique sounds and styles that would differentiate them from their peers while improving their songwriting, composition and performance skills.

"When you give formal education utmost importance, you can develop a unique sound and style that sets you apart from others. You can improve your songwriting, composition and production skills, which will enhance your overall craft. 

“Staying up-to-date with industry trends and technological advancements is also crucial in today's fast-paced music industry. Education will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to adapt to these changes and stay ahead of the curve. 

“Furthermore, education will provide opportunities for you to network with other musicians, producers and industry professionals, potentially leading to new collaborations and career opportunities,” he added.

The rapper, who is in the country to officially inaugurate a six-unit classroom block for Nuaso Anglican Primary School in the Eastern Region, also shared that he is open to working with relevant stakeholders to establish systems that provide creatives with access to formal education.

"I'm very passionate and that's why I've decided to invest in this global education programme and I am very much open to engaging leaders on any move that will help our creatives grow," he said.