International Ghanaian musician Stevo Atembire has revealed the struggles he encountered as he showed interest in music at a very tender age.
The internationally recognized Ghanaian singer in an interaction with Zeal Nana Kweku Bliss on Class FM’s Class Xtra opened up on what triggered his move from his hometown in the Upper East Region of Ghana to the country’s capital city.
According to the two-string musician, the love he has for his instruments and music was unshakable. His parents, on the other hand, were not happy with such a journey for their dear son. They sometimes break his instruments just to discourage him from pursuing his musical dreams.
“I had to run away from my parents to Accra at the age of fifteen years because they were not happy of me doing music.” he added.
Kologu, which usually consists of a calabash, two nylon strings, and a round mob strick, is a traditional musical instrument in the northern part of Ghana. Most musicians in that particular region grew up playing such instruments and have mastered their crafts with time.
Stevo’s Kologu seems to have taken a slight twist. He explained that his new invention, which includes the use of a metallic container, helps in accommodating the cold weather when he travels to the very cold regions in the world.
“I decided to invent this one for myself because we travel around the world, and they talk about saving the planet through cleanliness and not to waste things. It is a recycling culture for me. Also, anytime I travel outside, it saves me frome the cold because the goat skin and calabash change because of the weather. ” the well traveled artist explained.
The unique artist also revealed that he has seven albums with over thousands of songs out there. He has also worked with a number of DJs all over the world. His incredible project, ‘Alost Men’, was ranked in the fourth position in World Music in the United Kingdom. He also has his song featured in the advertisement of the NFL Superbowl.
The proud seed of the Upper East Region advised that instead of parents fighting the talents of their children, they should encourage and provide guidance to them. This is essential for the growth of the children as well as the Ghanaian culture in the right direction.
Stevo, who recently performed at the Afrika Festival Hertme 2024, also spoke about his relationship with Wanlov. His ‘Walk Your Talk’ song highlights his voice dexterity, which is one of his weapons in his music business. Just like the other traditional African singers, his craft has a lot of respect, especially in the diaspora. He is raking in some crazy numbers for his songs on the digital platforms as well as the festivals in which he performs worldwide.
This phenomenal son of African parents discouraging their children from exploring their God-given talents has been torn in the flesh of countless talents. It has destroyed or minimized the prospects of a number of talents. Parents can make a fortune with the distinct talents of their children with their encouragement and assistance. This ugly narrative is gradually taking a good turn, and hopefully, the next generation can make great use of such opportunities.
By: Brah Alidu
