Ghanaian reggae musician Shasha Marley has made headlines after revealing that he turned down a lucrative offer of $50,000 from a political party in Ghana.
The offer, which came with the condition of composing a campaign song for a political party, was presented to him earlier this year.
Speaking about the experience, Shasha Marley shared that he was initially excited about the opportunity when an old friend contacted him about the deal.
The prospect of a significant financial gain kept him awake at night as he contemplated the offer.
The following day, he met with his friend to discuss the details of the proposal.
However, despite the allure of the substantial sum, Shasha Marley ultimately decided to reject the offer.
The turning point came when he consulted with his wife, who advised him against getting involved in politics due to its complexities and potential controversies.
“You will be surprised and amazed to know that this year [2024], I rejected a $50,000 offer from a political party to do a reggae song for them…
“I had a call from a very old friend of mine who is not a politician, saying he has a big deal for me. I could not sleep that night. The following day, we met and he explained to me…
“When I returned home and briefed my wife, she advised me against it due to the politics involved, and eventually I agreed and rejected the offer, ” Shasha told Abeiku Santana on the Atuu show aired on UTV.
The musician’s decision sheds light on the intricate relationship between the music industry and political parties during election periods in Ghana.
It’s common for political parties to enlist musicians to create campaign songs aimed at resonating with the public and garnering support.
In Ghana’s political landscape, notable musicians like Diana Asamoah and Daddy Lumba have composed campaign songs for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), while Jewel Ackah famously did the same for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
These songs play a significant role in shaping public perception and influencing voter sentiment.
Shasha Marley’s rejection of the offer underscores the ethical considerations and personal convictions that artists navigate when engaging with political entities.
While the financial incentives may be substantial, many artists, like Shasha Marley, prioritise maintaining independence and steering clear of potential controversies that may arise from political affiliations.
Overall, Shasha Marley’s stance reflects the nuanced decisions artists often face in balancing their artistic integrity with external opportunities, especially in the realm of politics where allegiances can be polarising.