Music of Monday, 8 February 2010

Source: Ameyaw Debrah

Konvict Music Africa officially unveils Sarkodie

Hiplife artist Sarkodie has been making a lot of headlines in recent times concerning his signing of a deal that would see him join world class artists on one of the fastest growing music labels in the world, Konvict Music. On Saturday January 6, Konvict Music Africa made it official by outdooring the fastest rapper in Ghana as the proud new signee on a label that seeks to tap into the rich and diverse music talent that Africa has, and projecting or promoting these talents to an international audience.

Answering questions from the press, Babs the President of Konvict International assured Ghanaians that the deal is real and together with the Konvict Music brand, he would make an international artist out of Sarkodie without changing too much about the artist. Babs cited the challenges of doing music in Africa and promoting it in the international market; with particular mention of the lack of support from fellow Ghanaians.

Sarkodie on his part said he was excited about the potentials of the record deal and hoped that everything would turn out right. He said that he has no doubts about Babs, and all he can do is to wait patiently believing that Konvict Music Africa would help him to achieve his dreams. It is however not clear whether Konvict Music Africa was or would be involved in the production of Sarkodie’s sophomore album, ‘Rapaholic’, which is set for release soon.

According Babs, who is a US-based Ghanaian entrepreneur responsible for the success story of Fubu Jeans and other businesses across Europe and America, Duncwills Entertainment, headed by ace radio presenter Dr Duncan remains as the managing label for Sarkodie. Babs was however quick to add that if the business of Duncwillls Entertainment hinders the business of Konvict Music Africa in any way with respects to Sarkodie, he would not hesitate to stop working with the label. According to Babs, Konvict Music Africa would operate in South Africa and Nigeria where their music industry is better structured.

Julius Ossom, A&R for Konvict Music Africa and also the publisher of Ghanamixtapes.com, hinted of an upcoming music seminar that would educate musicians and industry players about how to make the sector grow. The seminar would also serve as an opportunity to discover more talents for Konvict Music Africa. Details on the seminar would be made available in due course.

view photos on www.ameyawdebrah.com