DJ Merqury Quaye, President, DJs Union of Ghana
The DJs Union of Ghana has called for calm following an unprofessional altercation between dancehall star Shatta Wale and DJ Alinko.
Shatta Wale has come under criticism after threatening to slap his DJ on stage during his ShattaFest concert in Ho on October 3, 2026.
The incident occurred on the same night the artiste used his platform to preach unity among musicians.
Videos shared on social media show Shatta Wale rounding on DJ Alinko after the music appeared to change midway through his performance.
“You think we are playing here. I will slap you,” Shatta Wale is heard saying in the video.
Following the encounter, the DJs Union of Ghana has responded.
In a statement addressed to the entire music fraternity, the Union said it is guided by a collaborative love and a deep commitment to shared success and to the ecosystem’s growth.
The Union noted that recent reports and isolated incidents regarding interactions between musicians and DJs had come to its attention.
“While these instances do not define our community, they serve as a gentle reminder of the need to nurture the bond that makes our industry thrive. We believe that open communication and mutual respect are the foundations upon which great music and memorable performances are built,” the statement said.
The Union stressed that musicians and DJs are partners in progress.
“DJs play a crucial role in breaking new songs, curating the energy of live performances, and ensuring that an artiste’s work reaches the widest possible audience. Musicians also provide the creative content that fuels the DJ’s craft. Without one, the other cannot fully succeed,” it added.
“In fact, DJs are often the first to introduce a new track to the public. Their support on radio, in clubs, and at events is essential for a song’s commercial viability. At concerts and festivals, the DJ is the musician’s ally on stage, managing transitions, maintaining crowd energy, and ensuring the technical execution of the performance aligns with the artiste’s vision.”
In the spirit of unity and professional growth, the Union advised all musicians to prioritise professional communication.
“We encourage clear, calm, and respectful dialogue with DJs before, during, and after performances. A brief pre-show soundcheck or run-through can prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone is aligned on the setlist,” the statement noted.
“We would also like to stress that the most successful performances are a result of teamwork. Therefore, treating DJs with the same level of respect and professionalism as any other member of the creative team creates a positive working environment that elevates the final output.”
The Union said it remains dedicated to supporting all musicians and is eager to collaborate on initiatives that promote the growth and integrity of the industry.
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