It’s Tough Being a Musician in Ghana - Camidoh Speaks on Industry Challenges

Ghanaian musician Camidoh has opened up about the harsh realities of pursuing a music career in Ghana, describing the industry as financially draining and lacking the support systems needed for creatives to thrive.

Speaking in an interview with Kafui Dey, the “Sugarcane” hitmaker said many Ghanaian musicians operate at a loss despite investing heavily into their craft. “It’s tough to be a musician in Ghana. It’s very tough,” Camidoh stated during the interview, explaining that artists often spend huge sums on music production, videos, promotions, and performances without receiving adequate returns.

The singer recounted an early experience in his career where he performed on the same stage as an international artiste but was only promised GH¢700 — money he said was never paid. According to him, the situation reflects the broader struggles faced by creatives in the country, including poor payment structures, lack of funding opportunities, and weak royalty systems.

“There is no system that helps artists. Where’s the funding? Where’s the government support? Even radio stations play our music without paying us,” he lamented. Camidoh also argued that creatives have played a major role in promoting Ghana internationally and attracting diasporans back home through music and entertainment. “What it does is it brings income to the country. The creatives have contributed half or more than half to draw the attention of diasporans back to the country,” he said.

The musician praised individuals investing in Ghana’s creative and entertainment industries, including Sharaf Mahama for his involvement in boxing promotion and the son of Kennedy Agyapong for supporting AfroFuture events. Camidoh further called for greater appreciation and support for Ghanaian creatives, warning against excessive criticism of artists who are struggling to survive.

“Nobody has the moral right to criticize creatives in this country because we are just trying,” he stressed. He added that many musicians face pressure balancing family responsibilities with the high costs of sustaining a music career, noting that even successful artists continue to face enormous financial demands behind the scenes.

Despite the challenges, Camidoh said he remains hopeful that Ghana’s music industry will eventually develop systems that allow artists to earn sustainable income from their art, including royalties and radio airplay.