A radio station declined to play my song because it was in Ewe - Keeny Ice

Keeny Ice, a top artist from the Volta Region, discussed challenges in Ghana's music industry. He highlighted language barriers as a significant issue.

In an interview with Doreen Avio and DJ Slim on Daybreak Hitz, he shared his experience at a radio station. They refused to play his song because it was in Ewe.

He recalled, "I went to a radio station and they said, 'We can't play an Ewe song.' I don't understand what you say in the song."

Keeny explained that songs in less popular languages struggle to gain recognition. He noted that misconceptions about music's universality contribute to this problem.

"When Twi or Fante dominate 70% of the industry, how can Dagbani or Ewe artists succeed?" he asked.

Keeny Ice mentioned that the type of songs he creates influences his choice of language. Although he is Ewe, he sometimes uses other languages in his music.

He stated that some of his songs do not contain any Ewe words.

The 'Steeze' hitmaker also discussed why many Ghanaian rappers have shifted to singing. He cited Headless YouTuber (Kula) as an example.

Kula stopped making music because rap did not bring financial rewards. Instead, afrobeat artists and those who create danceable music attract more deals.

Keeny Ice suggested that if King Paluta had continued rapping, he might not have achieved success. "If Dr Bawumia wanted to give King Paluta a deal, it wouldn't happen if Paluta was still rapping," he said.

To adapt, Keeny releases commercial songs while occasionally including hardcore rap tracks. "I have even done electronic dance music before," he added.

He pointed out that event organizers prioritize singers over rappers when planning shows. Rappers often receive significantly less payment than singers for performances.

"Even if they put you on a show, singers might get 100,000 cedis while you only get 15,000 cedis," he explained.

Keeny Ice has released several songs like 'Deja Vu', 'Sound Check', and 'Hedze'. His new EP titled 'Ice Cold' will be released on May 30, 2025.