Accra: Veteran Ghanaian gospel musician Grace Ashly has revealed a significant lapse in receiving music royalties from the Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO), spanning 18 years of her career.
According to Ghana Web, Grace Ashley expressed her grievances during an interview on Joy Prime, stating that she has not received any royalties for the past 18 years. She discussed her dissatisfaction with the current state of Ghana's music industry and shared her thoughts on how different her career could have been if it had started in the United States. Ashley emphasized that the opportunities available to musicians in the U.S. far surpass those in Ghana, suggesting that she would have preferred to begin her career there if given the chance.
Ashley also mentioned the financial pressures she faces whenever the Black Stars, Ghana's national football team, qualify for the World Cup. She noted that people often request financial assistance from her during these times. The gospel singer argued that if she were based in the U.S., discussions about royalties would be unnecessary due to the structured system that ensures artists receive their due earnings. She criticized the music industry structure in Ghana, describing it as lacking clarity and efficiency in supporting artists.