Naana Blu Hopes Grammy Recognition Will Change Ghanaian Youth’s Perception of Highlife as “Old People Music”
VGMA Unsung nominated artist Naana Blu is optimistic that the recent recognition of highlife music at the Grammy Awards will reshape the perception of Ghanaian youth towards the genre. Highlife, a cherished style in Ghana and Nigeria, has often been dismissed as “old people music,” but its inclusion in the Best African Music Performance category at the Grammys has brought it to the forefront.
Naana Blu, known for her enchanting highlife music, spoke out about the criticism she faced from prominent figures in the Ghanaian music industry for pursuing highlife. She believes that the endorsement from the Grammys will put an end to the disparaging remarks and hopes that younger Ghanaians will start appreciating and supporting highlife music.
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“As Ghanaians, we tend to value things more when they receive international recognition. Therefore, I hope that the majority of Ghanaian youth will begin to appreciate and support highlife music, encouraging young artists like myself who are determined to push the boundaries of this genre by creating more highlife songs that can be enjoyed and serve as a source of education,” Naana Blu expressed.
Despite the challenges, Naana Blu continues to make waves in the music industry. Her recent Afrobeats track titled “Cartoon” has become a chart-topper, receiving extensive airplay and garnering numerous streams. The artist’s debut EP, “This Is Highlife,” released in 2020, showcases the beauty of highlife music with captivating songs like “Ohia,” “Odo Asem,” “You Dey Do Yourself,” “This Is Highlife,” and “Highlife Dance.”
Naana Blu’s music is a testament to the versatility and enduring appeal of highlife. With the support of Grammy recognition, she hopes to inspire a new generation of Ghanaians to embrace and appreciate this cherished musical genre.
