- US-based DJ PC offers advice on taking Ghanaian music global
- Blending local sounds with international styles is key, he says
- Diaspora DJs can help promote Ghanaian music worldwide
As discussions intensify about how Ghanaian music can secure a prominent place on the global stage, US-based Ghanaian disc jockey DJ PC has shared his expert advice on the matter. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, DJ PC believes his recommendations could significantly impact the international reach of Ghanaian music.
In an interview with JoyNews, DJ PC discussed the need for a strategic approach to elevate Ghanaian music beyond local borders. Drawing from his extensive experience playing Ghanaian songs to international audiences, he emphasized the importance of integrating global music elements with traditional Ghanaian sounds.
“I believe Ghanaian music can gain international recognition, but for that to happen, we have to follow the blueprints of others who have been very successful at doing that. Latin musicians, for example, make music for their culture but also make music that aligns with what the international audience likes,” DJ PC said.
He advocated for a balanced approach, recommending a fusion of Ghanaian music with international influences to create tracks that resonate with both local and global listeners. “There is nothing wrong with Ghanaian music, but we need to keep the way our music is because it is very unique. But for it to have an international appeal, we need to blend our Ghanaian music with an international audience. To achieve that, we need to find ways of making that connection,” he explained.
DJ PC also highlighted the role of Ghanaian DJs in the diaspora as crucial to promoting Ghanaian music globally. He acknowledged the challenge of integrating Ghanaian tracks into diverse international playlists but suggested methods for introducing these songs without compromising the overall vibe of their sets.
“I contributed to the growth of Ghanaian music worldwide by playing Ghanaian music at my gigs. To do that, I need to find Ghanaian music that also aligns with the music that the audience listens to,” DJ PC told Rebecca Tweneboah Darko of JoyNews. He added, “Think of it this way, if you hire me to play at a Ghanaian event, you wouldn’t be happy with me suddenly kicking in an Indian song. To do that, I need to find a song that sounds like Ghanaian music but also build a relationship with the audience.”
DJ PC, who has performed at major events across the United States, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, continues to champion Ghanaian and African music through his global gigs. In addition to his career as a DJ, he serves as a Senior Director of Human Resources for a Medical Devices Company in Silicon Valley, demonstrating his commitment to promoting Ghanaian culture on a worldwide scale.
