Sompa Delight News Desk

A powerful and necessary conversation unfolded on Sompa Delight on Sompa 106.5 FM as host Abena Ruthy engaged regular guest Uncle Fred and media personality Rev. Eddie Eyison on a topic that continues to shape the future of Ghana’s creative industry—royalties and the performance of GHAMRO.

At the heart of the discussion was a shared concern: while Ghana’s music industry continues to grow in visibility and influence, the systems meant to reward creativity are struggling to keep pace.


A System Under Pressure

The panel acknowledged the critical role of GHAMRO as the body mandated to collect and distribute royalties to musicians. However, they pointed out several persistent challenges that have weakened its impact over the years.

Among the key concerns raised were:

Lack of effective monitoring systems to track music usage across radio, television, events, and digital platforms

Inadequate education for artists and stakeholders on how royalties work

Unauthorized use and reproduction of music, often without compensation

Limited transparency and trust issues between artists and the royalty system


Rev. Eddie Eyison emphasized that without proper structures, many musicians remain unrewarded for their intellectual property, despite their songs being widely played and enjoyed.


 The Cost of Neglecting Creators

The discussion highlighted a deeper issue—the sustainability of the music industry itself.

When royalties are not effectively collected or distributed:

Artists lose motivation and financial stability

Investment in music production declines

The industry risks stagnation despite its cultural significance


Uncle Fred noted that Ghana is rich in talent, but without a reliable royalty system, many creatives are left struggling to benefit from their own success.


 The Way Forward: Practical Solutions

While the challenges are significant, the panel proposed clear and actionable solutions to strengthen the system:

1. Digital Monitoring and Tracking Systems

Adopt modern technology that can:

Track music plays across radio, TV, and streaming platforms

Use data analytics to ensure accurate royalty distribution

Reduce human error and manipulation

2. Nationwide Education and Awareness

Launch continuous education campaigns to:

Teach artists how royalties work

Inform media houses and event organizers about their obligations

Encourage compliance through knowledge, not just enforcement

3. Stronger Enforcement and Regulation

Enforce penalties for unauthorized use of music

Strengthen collaboration between regulators and law enforcement

Ensure that all music users are properly licensed


4. Transparency and Accountability

Provide clear reporting systems for artists to track their earnings

Build trust through regular communication and audits

Introduce digital dashboards accessible to rights holders


5. Decentralization and Industry Collaboration

Extend GHAMRO’s reach beyond Accra to other regions

Partner with stakeholders in radio, TV, and digital media

Create a more inclusive and accessible system


 A Call to Action

The conversation on Sompa Delight was more than a critique—it was a call to action.

As Abena Ruthy guided the discussion, it became clear that the future of Ghana’s music industry depends not only on talent, but on structures that protect and reward that talent.

Rev. Eddie Eyison summed it up powerfully:

> “If we don’t fix royalties, we are silently discouraging creativity.”


Protecting the Sound of a Nation

Ghana’s music is more than entertainment—it is identity, culture, and a global voice. Ensuring that artists are fairly compensated is not just an industry issue; it is a national responsibility.

As stakeholders reflect on the insights shared on Sompa 106.5 FM, one thing is certain:
the time to strengthen GHAMRO is now.


Because when the system works, the music lives—and when the music lives, the nation speaks.

Sompaonline.com/Editorial Desk