Who runs the world? Not Ghana’s music industry yet

IN Ghana’s vibrant, beat-thumping, chart-climbing music industry, women are often the unsung voices—literally and figuratively.

You’ll find them belting hooks that become anthems, producing behind the scenes, managing the chaos, and holding entire brands together with little more than talent and tenacity. 

Yet, when it’s time to hand out the accolades, shine the spotlight, or headline the show, it’s the men who often get the mic—and the money.

From Accra to Tamale, the scene is buzzing with talent. But here’s the catch: the male-dominated culture of the industry still clings like autotune to a bad vocal take. Women are there, alright—ambitious, creative, bold—but too often boxed out of headliner slots, executive seats, or even the basic courtesy of being taken seriously without a side of sexism.

And it's not for lack of trying. Many women in the industry work twice as hard to get half the recognition. They juggle stage presence with societal pressures, dodge inappropriate “mentorship offers,” and navigate an industry where image often overshadows artistry. 

Meanwhile, their male counterparts can show up in jeans and a T-shirt, drop a freestyle, and get a record deal before the beat even drops.

So, what gives?

The disparity isn’t just a fluke—it’s systemic. It’s in the lack of mentorship, the underrepresentation on panels and playlists, the casual exclusion from decision-making rooms. It’s in the media narratives, the concert lineups, the “top 10” lists that forget women exist.

But here's the good news: change isn’t just possible—it’s already playing a soft intro in the background. Initiatives are emerging. Female-led collectives are forming. Audiences are demanding more inclusive stages and storytelling. What’s needed now is a remix of the entire structure—a cultural and institutional shift that empowers, promotes, and protects women in music not as tokens, but as equals.

Because let’s face it: the Ghanaian music industry isn’t complete without its queens. And if we’re truly serious about building a world-class, genre-bending, export-worthy industry, then it’s time to pass the mic—and not just for the chorus.

From Bias to Backstage Battles

The challenges faced by female musicians in Ghana are multifaceted. As Wiyaala, has pointed out, the industry is "run by men, for men." This male-dominated culture often manifests in subtle and overt ways—be it through limited performance opportunities, gendered expectations, or outright exploitation.

Adina Thembi has shared experiences of being pressured to "dress more provocatively" to secure performance slots, while male counterparts are judged solely on their musical talent. Gyakie spoke about being pressured to accept predatory management contracts, with implications that resistance would end her career before it began. 

The normalisation of sexual harassment remains one of the most insidious barriers. Many talented women have been confronted with the impossible choice between compromising their dignity or sacrificing their dreams. 

Shifting the Narrative

Thanks to platforms like Spotify, artistes like Amaarae are skipping the local gatekeepers and going global—streaming their way onto playlists in Paris, New York, and Nairobi, even while some Ghanaian media houses are still playing catch-up.

Meanwhile, initiatives like Afro Future’s collab with YouTube Music are turning up the volume on women in music—offering not just stage time but spotlight, strategy, and support. It’s not just exposure; it’s empowerment with a soundcheck.

And behind the scenes, groups like Arts Connect Africa are doing the heavy lifting—tuning the industry’s foundation by dismantling the outdated systems that have long kept women in the background. In short, the revolution may not be televised, but it’s definitely being streamed.

Building an Inclusive Industry

If Ghana’s music industry wants to evolve beyond catchy hooks and viral dance challenges, it needs a full-on structural remix—because equality shouldn't be an encore, it should be the opening act. Let’s start with equal representation.

 Women shouldn’t be the token act tucked between two headliners—they deserve equal billing at festivals, on award shortlists, and in media coverage that doesn’t just ask them about fashion and "who they’re dating." Visibility matters, and when women are seen, they’re heard.

Next up: support systems. It’s not enough to tell young women to “keep pushing”—we need real mentorship programmes, resource hubs, and industry networks that equip them with legal knowledge, production skills, business savvy, and access to professional opportunities. Let’s replace gatekeeping with genuine guidance and make sure “support” means more than likes and fire emojis under their Instagram posts.

Then comes policy reform—because vibes alone can’t fix structural bias. The industry needs clear, enforceable policies that address gender-based discrimination, protect against harassment, and ensure that contracts, opportunities, and royalties aren’t skewed by sexism. Whether you’re in the boardroom or the booth, fairness should be non-negotiable.

And finally, community building. Instead of pitting women against each other for the “only girl in the room” title, let’s foster an ecosystem where collaboration is the norm. Imagine what could happen if more female artistes, producers, DJs, and managers teamed up—not just to make hits, but to rewrite the rules. When women uplift each other, the whole industry rises with them.

In short, it’s time to turn the volume up on equity. Because an inclusive industry isn’t just good for women—it’s good for the music.

 Amplifying Women's Voices

The question isn't "Where are the women?" but rather, "Why aren't we hearing them?" Ghana's music industry is rich with talent, and it's high time the voices of its female artistes are given the platform they deserve. By addressing the barriers they face and creating opportunities for their growth, we can ensure the music scene reflects the true diversity of its people.

As we celebrate the achievements of artistes such as Amaarae, Moliy, Gyakie, MzVee, Eno Barony and Adina, let us also commit to breaking down the barriers that hinder the next generation of female musicians. The future of Ghanaian music is not just male or female—it's both, harmoniously united.