GHANAIAN Reggae/Dancehall star Ras Kuuku has boldly declared that no African country comes close to Ghana when it comes to Reggae and Dancehall music.
He insists Ghana has consistently produced some of the finest and most influential artistes in the genre, with a catalogue, message, and international recognition that far outweigh what is being done elsewhere on the continent.
Speaking exclusively to the Graphic Showbiz , Ras Kuuku insisted that Ghana’s dominance is beyond debate, yet it continues to be undermined by needless rivalries and comparisons.
Ras Kuuku did not mince words when he emphasised that Ghanaian acts set the pace and deserve more recognition at home.
“If you study the scene well, you will realise that Ghanaian Reggae/Dancehall artistes are the real leaders on the continent. From our lyrics to our stage presence, from the messages in our music to how we are projecting on international platforms, no African country can challenge what we are doing right now’’, he said.
The award-winning act expressed disappointment that Ghanaians often fail to acknowledge this leadership role.
“The sad part is that it is our own people who fail to see it. Instead of celebrating what we have, they waste time comparing us to others or pushing beef culture, which does not help anybody”, he added.
According to Ras Kuuku, the unhealthy habit of pitting Ghanaian Reggae/Dancehall artistes against one another only breeds division and distracts from building a strong, united industry.
He urged fans and stakeholders to stop fanning rivalries and instead channel their energy into supporting the homegrown talent carrying Ghana’s flag high.
At the same time, Ras Kuuku challenged his colleagues to stay true to the roots of Reggae/Dancehall by using their music to address social issues.
For Ras Kuuku, Reggae and Dancehall go far beyond hype and entertainment. He reminded fellow artistes that the genre was built on a foundation of consciousness, activism and social commentary.
“Reggae/Dancehall was never just about dancing and hype. It is music that speaks to the realities of the people, especially those in the ghettos. It has always been about rebellion against oppression, standing up for justice, and giving a voice to the voiceless.
“So I keep saying to my brothers and sisters in the industry: let us not abandon the genre's roots. Let us use our songs to fight for the youth, for the poor, for the downtrodden, and for the future.
“When we take up the microphone, it should not only be about hit songs and commercial appeal. It should be about challenging the system, inspiring the next generation, and addressing the real issues people face every day. That is how Reggae/Dancehall becomes timeless and impactful”, he explained.
Looking ahead, Ras Kuuku painted a confident picture of Ghana’s place in the global Reggae/Dancehall scene if unity and purpose are prioritised. He expressed optimism that Ghana could rise to the level of Jamaica, the global home of Reggae/ Dancehall, if artistes put aside their differences and work towards a collective vision.
“If we unite and understand the dictates of the genre, Ghana will soon be like Jamaica regarding Reggae/Dancehall. We already have the talent and the catalogue. We already have the energy and the creativity. We lack the spirit of working together and pushing a common agenda.
“Once we stop the petty fights and realise that our power lies in unity, nothing will stop us from taking over Africa and competing globally. The whole world will know that Ghana is the true home of Reggae/Dancehall in Africa”, he added.