Highlife and Afrobeat singer, Sista Afia, broke down in tears during her recent appearance on The Delay Show as she opened up about the challenges she faces in the music industry despite her efforts and talent.
Host Deloris Frimpong Manso pointed out that although Sista Afia has released hit songs, collaborated with some of Ghana’s biggest acts, and enjoyed widespread airplay, the industry often appears to downplay her work.
“Your songs are nice; you’re literally featuring all the big stars. Your songs are everywhere, but people pretend they do not know you,” Delay observed.
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Agreeing, Sista Afia said she has long sensed that she is not a favourite in the industry.
“I’ve known this since I released Jeje. I noticed I’m never going to be a favorite,” she said.
Sista Afia became emotional as she described the sacrifices she has made for her career.
“It’s really true. I’ve really worked. I’ve invested a lot. If I had saved that amount, I’m sure I’d have been bigger than this. It hurts because when you’re doing well and you’re so committed that you’d even invest your last penny…” she trailed off, reaching for tissue as she wiped away tears.
Explaining further, the “Weather” hitmaker said she sometimes wonders if her background plays a role in the way she is perceived.
“Sometimes, people say it’s because I returned from abroad and that people want artistes who have come from slums, because they relate with their stories better,” she said.
Despite this, Sista Afia was quick to emphasise that her fans remain loyal and supportive.
“For the audience, they don’t ignore me. I see the love whenever I perform. The challenge is more from the industry; it doesn’t always give you that respect. But the audience supports me so much that I hardly step out because I don’t want to be mobbed by fans,” she added.
Her emotional breakdown on the show has once again highlighted the struggles many artistes face behind the scenes, even when their music enjoys mainstream success.
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