Ghanaian music producer David Kwamena Bolton, widely recognized as D’KayBee, has advised musicians against composing songs for political parties. In an interview with DJ Slim on the entertainment radio show Daybreak Hitz, Bolton shared his perspective on the potential risks of political engagement for artists.
Bolton, known for his work on the hit song “Odo Filla” by Abrewa Nana, reflected on a personal experience from the 2000 elections when his group, VIP, was approached to create a campaign song. “We did it in the past and it didn’t go well,” Bolton recounted. He described how the NDC party approached VIP with confidence and paid handsomely for a victory song, even involving Nana Konadu and her children in the studio during the recording. “It was a full-on party song,” Bolton added.
However, following the party’s loss in the elections, VIP faced considerable backlash, and Bolton himself faced criticism for his association with the party. “We all know what happened. NDC lost, and then VIP started getting bashed. I got some flak from that as well,” he noted.
Bolton advised musicians to steer clear of political affiliations to ensure a sustainable career. “I don’t think it’s worth it as a musician. If you want a long-term career, try to stay out of politics because your fan base spans all political views. You risk alienating a portion of your fans, and it’s your fan base that keeps you going.”
He further elaborated, “You might get some decent cash at the moment, but you could end up losing much more than the value of that money. I would advise any musician to stay away from politics.”
