“It’s Insulting to Ask Artistes What They Do Aside Music” — Sarkodie Fires Back

“It’s Insulting to Ask Artistes What They Do Aside Music” — Sarkodie Fires Back

Award-winning Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie has described it as insulting when people ask musicians what they do outside of music.

According to him, such questions undermine the value of music as a serious profession, stressing that being an artiste is already a full-time career that requires dedication and hard work.

He clarified that while many artists make significant investments in their trade, from production and promotion to performances, it is unjust to imply that they require a second job to prove their success.

Sarkodie also emphasized that music is a legitimate industry that supports a large number of individuals, including engineers, producers, and other creatives.

Online discussions have been triggered by his remarks; some concur that the question is disrespectful to artists, while others contend that diversification is crucial in the current economic climate.

The discussion highlights ongoing perceptions about creative careers and the need to recognise music as a viable and impactful profession in Ghana and beyond.

That question “apart from music, what business do you do? Like, a proper business?” honestly comes off as a bit insulting. Music is actually one of the biggest industries in the world, and in many cases, it’s just as serious (if not more) than what people like to call “proper…

— Sarkodie (@sarkodie) April 26, 2026