DEGLORY GH MEDIA

Back in the day, there were a plethora of popular music groups that dominated the radio. Some of these groups were Akyeame, Akatakyie, Wutah, 4X4, VIP, R2Bees, Praye, 5Five, and BukBak.

In the vibrant landscape of Ghanaian music, groups once ruled the stage. They rubbed shoulders with solo artists at gigs, capturing the attention of fans and critics alike. With their unique sound and dynamic performances, these ensembles earned enviable accolades at the Ghana Music Awards, the pinnacle of recognition in the country’s entertainment calendar.

For years, music groups like Wutah, Praye, and Buk Bak dominated the airwaves, crafting hits that resonated with audiences and pushed the boundaries of musical expression. Their harmonies and collective talents stood out, making them formidable contenders in the industry. However, the narrative has taken a somber turn in the last decade, particularly in recent years. The number of active music groups has dwindled significantly, prompting the organizers of the prestigious Ghana Music Awards to scrap the Best Group of the Year category altogether this year. This move sent shockwaves through the industry, raising questions about the future of collaborative music-making in Ghana.

Currently, it seems that only a handful of groups, such as Dope Nation and Keche, are representing the secular music scene. This decline has sparked fervent discussions among fans, industry insiders, and former artists about the status and viability of music groups that once thrived in the limelight. The once vibrant atmosphere surrounding group performances has been replaced by a stark silence, and many are left wondering what went wrong.
Wutah Kobby, a former member of the dissolved Wutah gang, articulates his dissatisfaction with the present circumstances in a recent interview with the Daily Graphic.
His sentiments reflect a deep-rooted concern for the industry he loves. Music groups were able to stand out and create memorable songs because of the diversity of skill, he says.. His frustration is palpable as he continues, “Music groups are vibrant, and the richness of different musical influences fosters creativity and innovation.”

Kobby highlights that collaboration isn’t just a strategy; it’s a lifeline. He cites the example of La Meme Gang, a collective of solo artists who unite to create music before returning to their individual projects. "Belonging to the group does not have to be official." When people put their talents together in harmony, they create something truly remarkable, and that is the beauty of music.

Delving deeper into the financial aspects, Kobby emphasizes the economic advantages of being part of a group. When musicians collaborate within a musical ensemble, they can distribute the expenses and obligations associated with music composition and career management.. This shared burden alleviates pressure and allows for a more focused creative process.” He articulates the truth that teamwork can lead to artistic growth, stating, “Working together helps artists hone their skills, resulting in creative and varied music.”

Reflecting on his own journey, Kobby recounts how he initially embarked on his career as a solo artist. His path took a significant turn when he teamed up with Afriyie to form Wutah in response to the Nescafe African Revolution competition’s call for music groups ''Prior to this chance meeting, we were both making strides in our professional lives. To avoid disqualification, we came together to form Wutah, and I have no regrets about that decision,” he reminisces. Their collaboration not only propelled them to success but also became a crucial chapter in their lives, showcasing the power of unity in achieving dreams.

“Coming together allowed us to realize our dreams and achieve success in the music industry,” he asserts, his pride evident in his voice. The legacy of Wutah serves as a testament to the enduring power of group dynamics in the music world.

Kobby doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the impact of iconic music groups on a global scale. He cites legendary bands such as The Jackson Five, The Wailers, and Osibisa, illustrating how these groups have shaped music history and inspired countless artists. To back up his claim that musical groups are about more than just performing, he says, "Look at great names like Michael Jackson from The Jackson Five, Bob Marley from The Wailers, and Osibisa."a phase but a lasting force in the industry This is not a juxtaposition with solo musicians; it is a tribute to the dynamism that ensembles contribute to music.

In Ghana, Kobby believes that the spirit of collaboration remains alive, even in the face of adversity. Many legendary artists have maintained their vibrancy by performing with bands, which he considers a form of group music-making. The core of group existence surpasses formal affiliation. It’s about coming together to create something beautiful and meaningful,” he concludes.

As the Ghanaian music scene continues to evolve, Kobby’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the value of collaboration. His insights urge both industry players and fans to recognize and nurture the collective spirit that has historically defined Ghanaian music. For the revival of music groups, it may be time to revisit the roots of collaboration and celebrate the power of unity in creativity. Only then can the echoes of harmonies, once resonant in the airwaves, be reignited to captivate a new generation.