Ghanaian hiplife artiste Mzbel has revealed that her entry into the music industry was unplanned, which affected her ability to properly brand herself.
Speaking in an interview with Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM, Mzbel admitted that poor branding cost her several opportunities, including awards, despite being in the industry for two decades.
“I am not blaming anybody. I think it is the branding. If I were starting music today, I would put more effort into my branding. The branding wasn’t put together well. I was just put out like that, no proper branding. I would go on radio and say anything, put on any outfit, go where I was not supposed to,” she said.
She pointed to Becca as an example of a female artiste who was well-branded under the management of Kiki Banson. She advised up-and-coming female artistes to learn from her experience and prioritize branding.
Mzbel shot to fame in 2004 with her debut album Awoso Me and became one of the biggest female artistes of her time. Her music also gained popularity in countries such as Nigeria, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and Kenya.
However, despite her success across Africa, she claims Ghana has not recognized her contributions with an award.
“I received my flowers from other countries, but Ghana has never celebrated me with any award,” she lamented.
Known for her outspoken nature, Mzbel also clarified that she has not retired from music and is currently working on a new song that addresses the issue of bad friends.
She is best known for hit songs such as 16 Years, Awoso Me, Yopoo, Edey Be, Twe Ma Me, Braa Fiifi, and My Bonnet.