"Hit song not guarantee that an artiste will have a successful career", says Article Wan

CONTRARY to what others think, Ghanaian Afrobeats sensation, Article Wan, maintains a hit song does not necessarily make one a great artiste or guarantee a successful music career.

While a hit song could bring fame and fortune, he believes it wasn’t the ultimate measure of an artiste’s talent or greatness.

Talking to Graphic Showbiz on Tuesday, September 3, he said: “A hit song is just a moment in time. It’s a flash in the pan. But to be a great artiste, you need to have depth and substance as well as being consistent in your music.

“True greatness and longevity in music comes from dedication, hard work and a passion for one's craft. Anybody can have a hit song but not everybody can create music that resonates with people on a deeper level. That's what sets the great artistes apart from the ones who just have a fleeting moment of success,” he added.

Article Wan who shot to fame following his hit songs, Solo and Ngege said there were many talented and great artistes who have failed to be captured by the limelight because they didn’t have any hit song. That notwithstanding, they exude huge abilities that many one-time hitmakers cannot boast of.

Interestingly, Article Wan brought a new twist to the conversation, noting that today’s music listeners were not necessarily seeking deep, profound lyrics from musicians to make a hit.

“While today's music audience still value meaningful lyrics, their appreciation is different from previous generations, such as the era of Dr Paa Bobo and others. Compared to the past, lyrics have been toned down in today's music because that doesn’t count much in making a hit.”

“Given that, I don’t think you need much to make a hit and that is why I believe being consistent and not a hit song necessarily makes one a successful musician,” he said.

Article Wan also revealed that despite some artistes' ability to consistently release hit songs, it's actually challenging to predict which tracks will resonate with listeners and become successful.

Amidst the ongoing discussion on the Ghana-Nigeria music rivalry, Article Wan, born Bright Homenyah, is advocating substantial investment in the Ghanaian music industry to bridge the gap with its Nigerian counterpart.

He firmly believes with adequate funding, Ghana's untapped musical talent can be nurtured, allowing them to thrive and compete globally. (More articles on Article Wan: Contemporary consumers not ready for deep lyrics – Article Wan, My career is not dead -  Article Wan shuts down critics)

“We have great talents in Ghana but the problem is poor investment and that is killing many budding talents but I hope things turn around for the better,” he stated.

Article Wan, renowned for hits such as Faya Burn Dem, That Thing, Kululu, and Elavanyo, is out with a new single titled Master Planner.

He is also preparing to take the stage in London with a concert dubbed: ‘Proud in London,’ scheduled for Saturday, September 14.

Proud in London, a collaboration with fellow musician and songwriter, Kweku Flick, promises to be an unforgettable night of music and fun.