DJ Vyrusky Calls for More Investment and Stronger Networks to Propel Ghana’s Music Industry

Ghana’s music industry faces persistent challenges, and several stakeholders—musicians, producers, and promoters—have long called for solutions to unlock its full potential. DJ Vyrusky, one of Ghana’s leading Disc Jockeys and artists, has added his voice to the conversation, emphasizing the need for financial investment and stronger industry connections to drive growth.

Speaking on 3FM Drive on Monday, November 11, 2024, DJ Vyrusky explained why Ghana’s music scene struggles to compete on a global scale, particularly against powerhouses like Nigeria. He pointed to a lack of funding and weak professional networks as key barriers hindering the industry’s progress.

“I always like to call a spade a spade. We don’t have the money Nigerians have. They move differently because they have the power to move. You need money to move, and we are not moving because we don’t have enough money. Apart from that, we don’t have enough relationships to move,” he remarked.

Drawing comparisons with Nigeria, DJ Vyrusky noted that the neighboring country’s music industry thrives on robust financial backing and well-established relationships. These elements, he said, have enabled Nigerian artists to dominate global stages, leaving Ghana behind.

He also touched on a cultural issue that, in his view, further stifles progress in Ghana’s music scene: a lack of national loyalty among some successful individuals. According to him, this contrasts sharply with Nigeria’s approach, where artists and industry leaders actively uplift their compatriots.

“There’s this thing about some Ghanaians—you push them to higher places, and when they get there, they forget that they are Ghanaians. But when you have a Naija person in a space of authority, they make sure people know there are Nigerians there and invite their people whenever opportunities arise,” he explained.

DJ Vyrusky’s candid observations underline the need for a more united front in Ghana’s music industry. He believes fostering a culture of gratitude and collaboration, coupled with increased investment and strategic relationship-building, is essential for Ghanaian music to achieve global recognition.

As the debate continues, his insights serve as a rallying call for stakeholders to take deliberate steps to address the structural and cultural gaps holding the industry back.