Ghanaian music producer David Kwamena Bolton, known as D’KayBee, has advised musicians to avoid composing songs for political parties.
In an interview with DJ Slim on the popular entertainment radio morning show, Daybreak Hitz, Bolton shared his insights on the risks musicians face when they involve themselves in politics.
Bolton, well-known for the hit song “Odo Filla” by Abrewa Nana, reflected on his own experience during the 2000 elections. He recounted how his group, VIP, was approached by a political party to create a campaign song.
“We did it in the past and it didn’t go well,” Bolton recalled. “In 2000, the NDC approached us with the confidence that they would win the elections and paid handsomely for a victory song. We even had Nana Konadu and her children in the studio during the recording. It was a full-on party song.”
However, when the party lost the election, VIP faced significant backlash, and Bolton himself received criticism for his association with the party.
“We all know what happened. NDC lost, and then VIP started getting bashed. I got some flak from that as well,” he noted.
Additionally, Bolton advised musicians to steer clear of political affiliations if they wish to maintain a long-term career.
“I don’t think it’s worth it as a musician. If you want a long-term career, try to stay out of politics because your fan base spans all political views. You risk alienating a portion of your fans, and it’s your fan base that keeps you going.”
He elaborated further, “You might get some decent cash at the moment, but you could end up losing much more than the value of that money. I would advise any musician to stay away from politics.”