Our industry doesn’t honor its legends — Sherifa Gunu

Sherifa Gunu Calls for More Respect for Ghanaian Music Legends

In the vibrant world of Ghanaian music, few voices carry the weight and sincerity of Sherifa Gunu. Known for her powerful vocals and deep cultural roots, the celebrated African celebrity has recently opened up about a troubling trend: the lack of recognition and respect for veteran creatives in Ghana’s entertainment space. In a candid conversation, she didn’t mince words—calling for a national shift in how Ghana values the contributions of older artists
who have shaped the country’s musical identity.

Honoring Our Legends Too Late

Sherifa Gunu expressed deep concern over how Ghana only seems to honor its cultural legends after they’ve passed away or when they receive attention from international platforms. “We wait until our legends are gone or until foreigners celebrate them before we remember how much they gave to us,” she remarked. This, she emphasized, is not just disheartening—it’s a cultural oversight that needs urgent correction.

In many countries, legends in music, arts, and culture are revered while they are alive. From Nigeria to South Africa, older musicians are often invited to perform, mentor, and receive lifetime achievement awards. But in Ghana, the story is different. Sherifa believes this lack of appreciation is pushing many creatives into obscurity, even though they laid the very foundation for today’s success stories in Ghanaian music.

A System That Neglects Its Founders

The multi-talented African celebrity didn’t hesitate to compare Ghana’s music industry with Nigeria’s. According to her, Nigerian artists benefit from a strong internal support system—one that amplifies their careers whether or not their music hits global charts. “In Ghana, even when you release a masterpiece, you’re ignored until someone abroad praises it. In Nigeria, they support their own—no matter what.”

This, she noted, creates a structure where only a few make it to the top while many talented musicians are left behind. For Sherifa, it’s a missed opportunity—because Ghana is teeming with raw talent. “Ghana has talent but no structure,” she lamented. “We don’t nurture or protect our own.”

The Cultural Value of Traditional Music

Beyond industry politics, Sherifa also challenged widespread misconceptions about traditional music. She argued that traditional sounds are often dismissed as “old-fashioned,” yet they are deeply embedded in global hits. Artistes like Burna Boy and Angelique Kidjo, she pointed out, have gained international acclaim precisely because they embrace these roots.

“People say traditional music is outdated, but they dance to Burna Boy not realizing they’re enjoying traditional sounds,” she said. The irony, she explained, is that what Ghana ignores, the world embraces—because other countries know how to brand and promote their culture.

Encouraging the Next Generation—with Realism

When asked if she would encourage younger artists to follow in her footsteps with traditional music, Sherifa offered a thoughtful response. “Only if their heart is in it,” she said. Traditional music carries immense power and emotion, but without support structures in Ghana, it can be a lonely road. “If you choose that path, be prepared to push it globally on your own,” she advised.

A Call for Cultural Reform

At its core, Sherifa Gunu’s message is a call for reform—an appeal to Ghanaians to start celebrating their own before it’s too late. She’s not just speaking for herself, but for an entire generation of creatives who helped build the industry and are now being forgotten.

In the realm of African News, her voice is one that echoes far beyond the music scene. It calls for unity, respect, and cultural pride. As one of Ghana’s most passionate artists, Sherifa Gunu reminds us all that legends should be honored in life—not just in memory.

Final Thoughts

Sherifa’s reflections are a necessary reminder that the soul of any nation lies in how it treats its pioneers. As Ghana continues to make waves in global music and culture, it’s time to look inward and ask: Are we doing enough to lift up those who carried the torch before us?

If Ghana is to truly thrive creatively, then voices like Sherifa Gunu’s must not just be heard—but acted upon.

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