Hiplife recording duo, Keche have emotionally expressed their displeasure regarding the split of what used to be one of Hiplife’s vibrant music groups Praye.
The duo made up of Andrew and Joshua made this revelation during their latest interview on StarrFM’s ‘Club Arena’ segment hosted by Bianca Buckman and Nii Ayi Tagoe.
Keche said most of the music groups they idolized growing up have in one way or the other separated, which inspiration wise has affected their career.
"As young and upcoming musicians, we felt it was important to look up to the ones who were already doing it big like Praye and their sudden separation really killed our vim", Joshua stated.
The other half of Keche, Andrew also said ‘’It got to a time hiplife groups was the ‘ish’ in Ghana; then sadly the split trend began, way back from VIP (now VVIP) to Sass Squad who also broke up and formed TH4 Kwages to Akyeame who eventually went solo to Wutah’s separation and the exciting trio Praye, made up of Choir Master, Big J Cartel and Kente also splitting really dented the image of groups in Ghana".
Praye used to be one of the sought after music groups in Ghana and on the African continent with classic hits like ‘Ma Shody’ and‘Angelina’. The group shot into fame when they won the maiden edition of Nescafe African Revelation contest in Ghana, and went on to win the West African grand finale.
According to Keche, among the various groups, their style was more like that of Praye hence they looked up to them until the trio announced their separation.
"Now you can see how music groups are doing on the current music scene, the influence and euphoria that used to back them is no more. Due to the controversies that follow the split ups, fans tend to lose trust in groups these days as their separation usually cause mixed feelings’’, Keche added.
Keche went on to say music groups should be seen as a brand, emphasizing on the fact that Keche is a brand they have created for the fans.
"We are friends, but we are more than brothers and have enjoyed our friendship for over a decade now. Even though sometimes we have our differences, we don’t let it affect the brand ‘Keche’ which has been in existence for 5years now", Joshua stated.
In addition, Andrew said, ‘’we pay maximum respect to the brand because that’s what represents us. Praye was one of our favorite music groups in Ghana as we were coming into the game, we enjoyed their songs, performances and their unity, but they couldn’t solve their differences or whatsoever trouble that arose among them’’.
Keche concluded their remarks by saying, ‘’unfortunately, Praye isn’t enjoying the glory days anymore even though individually they are putting out their best. Our little advice to every music group in Ghana is that you protect the brand you’ve introduced.
Just like any other human institution, misunderstandings will arise but you need to be able to resort to resolving them cos the brand embodies your reputation and credibility on the mainstream scene.’’