Authenticity is key to success in music industry – Sherifa Gunu

Ghanaian Traditional music artiste Sherifa Gunu has emphasized the importance of authenticity in the music industry.

She cautioned young artistes against following trends and instead encouraged them to be true to themselves and their culture.

Sherifa Gunu warned that copying others too much can lead to obscurity, stating, “If you copy too much, you’ll disappear.”

She cited examples of legendary musicians such as Osibisa, Amakye Dede, and Angelique Kidjo, who have remained relevant over the years due to their unique styles.

As a seasoned artiste, Sherifa Gunu has faced numerous challenges in the industry, including being overlooked for major shows and being pressured to focus on her appearance rather than her talent.

She described the industry as hostile to women, particularly those who do not meet certain beauty standards.

“I have faced many challenges, including being overlooked when it comes to performing at major shows and being pressured to focus on appearance than my talent,” she stated.

Empowering Young Artistes

Despite these challenges, Sherifa Gunu remains committed to empowering young artistes, especially women.

She encourages them to let their talent speak for itself, even if it takes longer to achieve success. “It may take longer, but it lasts,” she emphasized.

Legacy of Timeless Music

With a career spanning over two decades, Sherifa Gunu has established herself as a pioneer of traditional music in Ghana.

Her notable albums include “Dagbon,” “Akwaaba Wo Africa,” and “African Woman.”

She has also won numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to Ghanaian music.