Renowned Highlife musician Nat Brew popularly known as Amandzeba embraces personal fulfilment over external recognition, challenging the traditional definition of success.
The veteran artist, celebrated for his soulful tunes and enduring contributions to Ghana’s music scene, emphasized the significance of intrinsic satisfaction and dedication to one’s craft.
In a recent interview with Daily Graphic, the ‘Kpalogo Y3de’ hitmaker asserted that the absence of widespread celebration does not diminish his sense of achievement.
Amandzeba believes in the power of individual validation, asserting, “People don’t necessarily have to celebrate you to know that you are doing well.”
Expressing contentment when fans express their love for his music, Amandzeba rejects the idea that success hinges solely on external accolades.
He draws inspiration from personal conviction, noting, “I know I have done great songs, and if people praise me for it, it is enough celebration.”
In defiance of societal norms, Amandzeba acknowledges the challenges faced by notable figures, like Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, were not adequately celebrated.
“People don’t necessarily have to celebrate you to know that you are doing well. I have had this conviction that I am celebrated when people tell me they love my music. I know I have done great songs and if people praise me for it, it is enough celebration.
“This is a country where Dr Kwame Nkrumah was overthrown after all he did for Ghana. Anything good that comes from this country will not be celebrated well so I take consolation from the fact that I am not doing music to be celebrated,” he said in an interview with Daily Graphic.
“So don’t feel bad as a musician that Ghana does not celebrate you. When you believe in yourself and the product you have, people will love you for it,” he added.
He encourages fellow musicians not to be disheartened by a lack of recognition, emphasising that self-belief and dedication to one’s craft will attract genuine appreciation.
Operating One Ghana, a venue on the Spintex Road, Amandzeba provides a platform for emerging artists to perform live and promotes the rich heritage of Highlife music.
Beyond his well-known hits like ‘Toffee,’ ‘Aso,’ ‘Medo,’ ‘Kotosa,’ and ‘Deeba,’ which have earned him various awards, Amandzeba sees himself as a bridge between the past and present, blending ancient songs with a modern twist.