Gyakie explores the role of music in shaping conversations

Ghanaian singer Gyakie has spoken about the power of music and the responsibility artists have to use their voices to address issues that matter to their audiences.

She was speaking at OkayAfrica’s Culture Cafe, an interactive listening and discussion session that brings together artists and cultural figures from across Africa.

Gyakie said her belief in the influence of music is something she has carried with her from a young age. “One thing that I have come to accept, I think I have had that with me from when I was young, music is very powerful,” she said. She added that people who have a platform and are able to speak for others should not underestimate the influence they can have.
“For anybody that is able to be a loud voice for random people or people that look up to them, it is something that we should never undermine,” Gyakie said. The singer noted that music can create opportunities for artists to engage audiences on subjects that may otherwise be difficult to discuss directly.

“Being someone that is able to talk about these things through music, you know there are certain conversations when you have with someone, the person will not pay attention, but music will do that work,” she said. Gyakie described the opportunity to communicate through her music as an honour, particularly when her work can reach people in ways that ordinary conversations may not.

Gyakie was the second artist to feature at OkayAfrica’s Culture Cafe, following its debut with Ghanaian musician Stonebwoy. The platform is designed to foster conversations among artists, industry experts, writers and cultural architects about music, culture, film, streetwear and other elements shaping contemporary African culture.