Mark Okraku-Mante
Creative Arts Council in collaboration with Beyond the Return Secretariat held a masterclass at the Accra Tourist Centre on new ways to market Ghanaian music on the global market.
The masterclass, which was attended by a section of music stakeholders, was aimed at helping artistes maximise their source of revenue and promote their works on various international music platforms.
It featured seasoned music personalities who provided participants with knowledge about online digital sales, music promotion, marketing and distribution of musical works among others.
On the panel were the President of the Creative Arts Council, Mark Okraku-Mante; American electric blues guitarist, singer, songwriter and record producer, Vasti Jackson; American DJ, Malcolm Xavier; Senior Integrated Media Specialist at Radio One-USA, Coriya Burns; President of Sony Music’s Since ’93, Glyn Aikens and music
educator Dontae Winslow.
Addressing the participants at the event, DJ Malcolm Xavier declared his readiness to connect with Ghanaian musicians who want their songs played on his radio shows.
He advised Ghanaian musicians to note that because the world is connected through the internet, they should make sure they put out quality work.
Grammy award-winning artiste, songwriter and producer, Vasti Jackson, admonished musicians to learn about the business side of the music career so they are not exploited.
He advised Ghanaian musicians to be humble and avail themselves for online training to broaden their scope, not only in the artistry but in how to market their music.
Coriya Burns, the Senior Integrated Media Specialist at Radio One-USA, advised Ghanaian musicians to make sure all their online uploads come with revenue.
For music educator Dontae Winslow, musicians should let their creativity be of prime importance than making money. He said too much focus on the money may not bring it all.
Okraku Mante, the President of the Creative Arts Council also emphasised the importance of making use of culture to shape the structure of the industry through its strategies.