Accra: Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng, widely recognized as A-Plus, has declared that musicians who constantly criticize the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) are typically those whose careers have effectively ended. During an appearance on UTV’s United Showbiz, A-Plus questioned the presence of any active musician consistently voicing criticism against MUSIGA, suggesting that such criticisms primarily originate from musicians who are no longer active in the industry.
According to Ghana Web, A-Plus expanded on his viewpoint by stating that if an individual is persistently and seriously critiquing MUSIGA, it is indicative of their career’s demise. He challenged observers to identify any active artist who is prominently advocating MUSIGA’s issues, emphasizing that this critique is not isolated to MUSIGA but also includes the Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO), which oversees the management and distribution of royalties to music rights holders.
MUSIGA, established in 1957 and formally incorporated in December 1975, serves as a comprehensive organization that unites and safeguards the professional interests of musicians, sound engineers, music teachers, and other industry stakeholders across various genres in Ghana. Presently, the union is led by veteran musician Bessa Simons. Over the years, MUSIGA has been instrumental in shaping the music industry in Ghana, including engaging in discussions around the country’s copyright framework and advocating for the rights and welfare of musicians.
The union offers support to its members in areas such as copyright registration, music contracts, and royalty-related matters. Additionally, MUSIGA provides welfare support, including emergency medical assistance, bereavement aid, and support for aging and vulnerable musicians. With regional offices across all 16 regions of Ghana, MUSIGA strives to decentralize support and make its services more accessible to musicians nationwide.
In 2025, MUSIGA celebrated its Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years since its formal incorporation. The milestone highlighted the union’s ongoing commitment to championing the rights, welfare, and artistic development of Ghanaian musicians.