BY Grace Zigah
Renowned Ghanaian musician Gyedu-Blay Ambolley has expressed concerns about the impact of technology on the music industry.
According to him, the increasing reliance on digital tools is eroding creativity and artistic discipline among musicians.
Ambolley made these comments on Joy Prime’s Prime Time show, criticizing the current trend of prioritizing speed and convenience over effort and depth in music production.
The Problem With Shortcuts
Ambolley believes that the widespread use of technology in music production has led to a new generation of artists relying too heavily on computers and software, rather than mastering musical instruments or developing strong lyrical content.
He warns that these shortcuts make music lack soul, substance, and staying power.
In his opinion, music should be treated as a craft that requires discipline, mentorship, and cultural grounding.
A Different Era
The highlife pioneer reminisced about the past when musicians had to learn to play instruments, study music theory, and perform live.
These skills, he says, taught patience and fostered originality.
In contrast, today’s digital-driven industry allows artists to download beats, quickly patch together lyrics, and upload songs within hours, often without much human interaction or creative collaboration.
The Importance Of Mentorship
Ambolley also emphasized the importance of proper mentorship in the industry.
He lamented that many upcoming musicians are surrounded by people who fail to provide honest feedback or guidance.
This, he believes, can lead to artists taking the wrong path in their careers.
A Call To Action
Despite his criticisms, Ambolley acknowledged that not all hope is lost.
He praised artists like Kofi Kinaata for staying true to the core values of songwriting and storytelling.
He urged young artists to embrace technology as a tool, not a replacement for skill, practice, and cultural connection. By doing so, they can create music that is both meaningful and lasting.
