Sista Afia has been celebrated for her achievements in Ghana’s music industry, despite her own concerns that her efforts have not been fully recognised.
The singer, who recently spoke on ‘The Delay Show’ about the challenges she has faced in her career, has been described as a “star” by arts and culture journalist Kwame Dadzie.
He noted in a Facebook post that Afia has done remarkably well over the past decade and should take pride in her successes.
Sista Afia entered the male-dominated industry in 2015 with her debut single ‘Kro Kro No,’ featuring highlife act Bisa K’dei. She followed up with ‘Jeje,’ a collaboration with Shatta Wale, which boosted her profile further.
Over the years, she has built an impressive catalogue with features from top Ghanaian and Nigerian artistes. Without the backing of a major investor, she has worked hard to sustain her relevance in what she has described as a very competitive and “slippery” space.
Kwame Dadzie stressed that globally only a small fraction of musicians reach superstardom, but many, like Sista Afia, create sustainable careers that earn them respect and recognition.
“She may not have gotten to the level she wants to be yet but she is THERE! Afia is very talented. She sings so well,” he said.
He urged the singer to acknowledge her progress, adding that she has already won the admiration of many fans.
“She has the potential to soar even higher. In the meantime, she should revel in the smaller gains… Sista Afia is already a star.”
Below is Kwame Dadzie’s full post on Facebook concerning the singer:
“Anytime I come across talented up and coming musicians, I wish they all blow but the truth is, not all of them will blow.
In fact, I have said it umpteenth times that not everyone who pursues music will reach THE VERY TOP. Globally, only about 0.1% of musicians ever achieve superstardom. It has little to do with Ghana’s ramshackle industry. It’s a simple theory of Charles Darwin’s natural selection. It pertains to every aspect of life”
However, there is hope. Around 5% to 10% of musicians globally build sustainable careers without necessarily becoming household names. They earn a decent living through performances, licensing deals, teaching, or session work.
Success in music is not always about fame; it is also about creating a life where your art supports you.
I have seen Sista Afia’s interview with Delay. She may not have gotten to the level she wants to be yet but she is THERE! Afia is very talented. She sings so well.
I believe she is doing amazingly well and has won the hearts of many music lovers. There are many young musicians who will bless their stars if they were at her level.
She has the potential to soar even higher. In the meantime, she should revel in the “smaller gains.” Human needs are insatiable. Sometimes instead of getting sad over our unanswered prayers, let’s also take a moment to thank God for how far he’s brought us. Sista Afia is already a star.”
