Ghanaian Reggae/Dancehall artiste, Ras Kuuku, has stated that no African country rivals Ghana when it comes to Reggae and Dancehall music.
Speaking in an interview with Graphic Showbiz, Kuuku argued that Ghana has consistently led the continent in artistry, message, and global recognition within the genre. He maintained that Ghanaian acts have long set the standard, though their achievements are often overlooked due to local rivalries and needless comparisons.
“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.
He lamented that many Ghanaians fail to appreciate the country’s leadership in the genre. “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.
Ras Kuuku called on fans and industry players to move away from division and instead invest their energy in supporting homegrown artists who are flying Ghana’s flag high. He said constant rivalries only weaken the industry and distract from its growth.
He also challenged his peers to reconnect with the roots of Reggae and Dancehall by using their music as a tool for social transformation. For him, the genre’s true essence lies in consciousness, activism, and truth-telling.
“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.
Ras Kuuku expressed confidence that Ghana could rise to the level of Jamaica, the global home of Reggae and Dancehall, if artists set aside ego and embrace unity.
“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 further stated.
