Rapper Amerado, known in real life as Derrick Sarfo Kantanka, has urged musicians to be cautious of the lyrical content they create, following the Ghana education system’s new initiative of incorporating song lyrics into examination questions.
In an interview on Joy Prime’s Prime Morning show, Amerado expressed his views on the matter, citing the recent use of his song, ‘Kweku Ananse’, in the Creative Art and Design paper of the ongoing 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). He noted that this development highlights the significant influence musicians have on society.
Amerado advised musicians to be mindful of their composition and character in public, considering the impact of their songs and lifestyle on young people, particularly students. “It shows that what we are doing could go as far as being positively impactful on people’s lives. So, as an artiste, if you’re going to the studio to record a song or going out to perform, you should check your dress code, the way you portray yourself, and the kind of words you use in your songs because someway, somehow, you’re having an impact on people’s lives.”
He commended the initiative, stating that it strengthens the connection between the corporate sector and the creative industry, recognizing their equal value in society and contribution to Ghana’s education growth. Despite being tagged as bad influences, Amerado encouraged musicians to persist in their efforts and strive for recognition.
The question in the Creative Arts and Design paper reads: “Select the moral lesson from the lyrics ‘Mani mmere wo mpaboa no’ in the song ‘Kwaku Ananse’ by Amerado.”
Amerado expressed gratitude to the Ghana Education Service (GES) and West African Examination Council (WAEC) for the recognition, urging musicians to create content that promotes positive values.
