Media Training Essential for Ghana's Musicians, Says Industry Manager NanaYaw Wiredu

Ghanaian talent manager and media entrepreneur NanaYaw Wiredu has underscored the critical role of professional media training in protecting musicians' public image, citing the recent online confrontation involving rapper Mr Drew as a cautionary tale.

Speaking on Woezor TV's Breakfast Café, Wiredu stressed that such incidents are preventable through structured coaching on how artistes should conduct themselves during television appearances, radio interviews and public engagements. "Because you don't want to put somebody off by saying the wrong thing," he explained, emphasising that managing public perception is as important as producing hit records.

What Sparked the Controversy

Mr Drew's heated exchange erupted during an X Space session hosted to promote his single Steeze and interact with supporters. The tension began when a participant casually addressed the musician as "chale"—a common Ghanaian colloquialism typically used among peers and friends. Mr Drew objected, asserting that the participant was not his age mate and that differences in age, social status and financial standing warranted respect.

"I am not your mate. A lot of people think I am their mate, but I am not your mate," Mr Drew stated during the exchange. When the participant challenged him, suggesting he was not prominent enough to make such distinctions, both sides resorted to insults and threats of blocking. The incident subsequently drew backlash on social media, with critics questioning the musician's approach to fan interaction. Mr Drew later clarified his frustration was aimed at trolls rather than genuine supporters.

Why Artiste Development Goes Beyond Music

Wiredu's remarks highlight an often-overlooked dimension of professional music career management in Ghana. Beyond songwriting, production and marketing, successful artistes require training in communication, emotional regulation and audience relations. Media training equips musicians with skills to handle provocative questions, deflect personal attacks and maintain professionalism during public appearances.

The talent manager, who founded Oneplay Africa and has managed artistes including Nana Yaa, D-Flex and Mzbel, has previously launched initiatives to professionalise the entertainment industry. In September 2023, he introduced a free online Music Master Series targeting emerging entertainment executives on business fundamentals. His extensive background spans artiste management, publicity, publishing, events coordination and digital media strategy.

Why This Matters for Ghana's Music Industry

Ghana's music scene continues to grow internationally, with local artistes gaining audiences across Africa and beyond. However, online platforms like X have democratised direct fan engagement, creating new risks. Without proper training, musicians risk damaging their reputation through impulsive responses to criticism or casual disrespect—incidents that spread rapidly across social media and can alienate supporters.

For emerging artistes navigating fame in Ghana's competitive music landscape, media coaching represents an investment in long-term career sustainability. A single viral controversy can overshadow years of musical achievement, affecting brand partnerships, streaming revenue and fan loyalty. By normalising professional communication standards, industry figures like Wiredu advocate for a more mature, business-minded approach to Ghanaian music management that protects both artistes and their commercial interests.