Ghanaian music icon Samini has addressed persistent stereotypes surrounding entertainers, arguing that not all creatives are involved in vices such as smoking, drinking, or womanizing.
Speaking on the Health Quarters Podcast, the award-winning singer and songwriter said it was unfair for society to generalize such behaviours as being inherent to the entertainment industry.
“It’s a perception,” Samini stated firmly. “There are a lot of doctors and teachers who smoke. So you can’t just say it’s a creative person thing.”
According to Samini, while such habits may exist among some artistes, they are not exclusive to the creative industry. He explained that many young people who enter the entertainment space do so at a young age, and some fall into such lifestyles due to peer pressure and inexperience.
“We enter the space quite young,” he noted. “You’re a teenager, you see what others are doing, and you think it’s part of the culture. If you’re not careful, it becomes a habit before you even realize it.”
Samini, who has often been admired for his maturity and composure, said he was fortunate to pull out of such circles early, learning to prioritize discipline, focus, and self-control throughout his career.
On the topic of womanizing, the My Own hitmaker offered a nuanced perspective, suggesting that the issue should be approached with understanding and honesty rather than blanket condemnation.
“I don’t think womanizing is a problem,” he said, drawing laughter from the podcast hosts. “What matters is honesty. If you’re in multiple relationships, be open. Don’t deceive anyone.”
He further linked the discussion to traditional African views on polygamy, emphasizing that mutual consent and respect are essential.
“You can’t force polygamy down anyone’s throat,” he added. “But if a man is open and a woman knows what she’s agreeing to, then there’s mutual respect.”
