Richie Mensah
Ghanaian music producer and CEO of Lynx Group, Richie Mensah, has called on players in the country’s entertainment industry to stop depending on government support and take charge of their own progress.
Speaking in an interview on Joy FM, Richie emphasised that creatives must prove their value before expecting investment or assistance. “Every support I have received in my life has been earned… I proved it was worth someone’s time and money,” he said.
He criticised a growing sense of entitlement among creatives who seek help without building a sustainable foundation. Richie pointed out that while some artistes are making money in certain areas, they expect state support in others where they’ve made little effort. He also reminded the industry of broader national priorities, referencing people in rural communities struggling with basic needs.
Using the U.S. as an example, Richie noted how California’s entertainment industry outperforms even Texas’s oil economy, earning government attention because of its economic value—not sentiment. He argued Ghana’s industry needs similar structure and economic weight before expecting serious backing. Richie also cited division, disorganisation, and ego clashes as barriers to progress, saying even small collaborations are derailed by conflict. Reflecting on his own journey, he revealed he once tried to fix the entire industry—addressing copyright and structure issues—but eventually chose to “fix his corner” and grow with others who shared his vision. “Leave everybody alone and do what you can do,” Richie urged. “It’s as simple as that.”