Ras Kuuku, the 2023 VGMA Reggae/Dancehall Artist of the Year, has openly expressed his frustration with the lack of recognition and support he and his fellow musician Yaa Pono have encountered within the Ghanaian music industry.
Despite their significant contributions and successes in the reggae/dancehall genre, both artists feel overlooked and underappreciated by the industry and its stakeholders. Ras Kuuku highlighted that, despite their hard work and achievements, they have not received the level of acknowledgment they deserve, which has been disheartening for them.
In a candid interview on Hitz FM, Ras Kuuku shared his frustration over the lack of recognition he and fellow artist Yaa Pono have received in the Ghanaian music industry, despite their significant contributions. He emphasized how both of them have played vital roles in shaping and influencing the local music scene, yet continue to be overlooked. Ras Kuuku also took the opportunity to reflect on his efforts in mentoring and grooming several up-and-coming artists.
Ras Kuuku voiced his frustration, saying, “I have helped many artists grow, but once they achieve success, they forget about me. Before Ebony became famous, Bullet reached out to me for a collaboration with his new artist. Yaa Pono, too, has contributed greatly to the success of others, yet has he ever received the recognition he deserves?”
Ras Kuuku boldly asserted that he is the top live performer in the country at the moment. He went on to explain, “When it comes to live performances, I firmly believe I am the best. Although I haven’t always had the chance to showcase this skill to the fullest, I know that when it comes to performing with a live band or even just with a beat, no one else comes close to what I bring to the stage.” His statement reflected his confidence in his unique ability to captivate audiences with his live performances.