For Lord Paper, breaking into the global music scene isn’t just about talent; it’s about money, structure, and having the right people in your corner
The Ghanaian singer recently made headlines after revealing he needs $5 million to relaunch his career properly on the international stage. So what happens if that investment doesn’t come through right away?
In an interview with the Graphic Showbiz on Monday, August 17, Lord Paper, born Michael Takyi-Frimpong, said he’s not waiting around. He’ll keep making music.
“I’ll focus on making hit songs that can reach people around the world. Even if I don’t get the $5m investment immediately, I’ll keep working on my music, finding ways to promote it the right way and connecting with the right team to push it further.
“I know the kind of music I want to make and the level I want to reach. With the right team, strategy, connections and promotion, I can take my music to another level. I want songs that don’t just do well in Ghana, but travel, reach different markets and connect with people across the world. The talent is there. What I need is the right structure and proper promotion”, he added.
Asked whether Ghanaian artistes get enough industry support to break into international markets, Lord Paper gave the industry credit but didn’t sugarcoat the gap.
“I think the industry is doing its best. Ghanaians will push you wholeheartedly if they love you and your sound, but it still comes down to money, your team, and the right plugs to stay in the international market.
“Look at what A-list artistes such as Davido and Rema pour into promotion — it’s crazy, millions of dollars. And that’s after they are already big. That tells you one thing: music is not cheap”, he explained.
Still, he was quick to give his fellow Ghanaian artistes their flowers.
“Ghanaian artistes are really doing well. Most of them fund their own work, and that’s no joke. Despite that, they are still doing amazing things and pushing the culture forward.
“I pray for more investors and broader outreach, because there’s so much talent in Ghana that the world needs to experience. With more support and investment, our artistes can reach even greater heights”, he stated.
Asked to describe where he is with his music, the Dzigbordi singer said he’s not even close to his target.
“I’m not at my stratosphere yet, I mean the highest level I believe I can reach. There’s still a lot of work to be done, and I’m on it. I have much more to achieve, and I’m focused on getting there. I’m not where I want to be yet, but with consistency, hard work and the right moves, I believe I will get there”, he added.
