Stonebwoy addresses 'filling Accra Sports Stadium' controversy

Renowned Reggae and Dancehall artiste Stonebwoy has addressed the recent controversy surrounding his comments about filling the Accra Sports Stadium with his self-sponsored BHIM concert in December 2023. The artiste made headlines after a video surfaced in which he claimed that no other artiste in his class had been able to sell out the stadium without sponsorship, a statement that sparked debates in the media.

In an interview with Accra-based Hitz FM, Stonebwoy took the opportunity to clarify his remarks, offering insight into the context and intent behind his words. The artiste explained that his comments were initially made in response to a statement by artiste manager Gomski, who had suggested that Dancehall music was a problem in the Ghanaian music scene without enough support from local artists. Stonebwoy clarified that he wasn’t making a general comparison between himself and other artistes, but rather highlighting his own achievement of filling the Accra Sports Stadium without relying on external sponsorship.

“I stand by what I said, and I’ll say it again,” Stonebwoy declared. “It’s clear and obvious. When I speak, I make sure I use the right words. I was talking about my own success, not comparing myself to anyone else. I know what I did, and the public saw it too.”

He expressed frustration at the misinterpretation of his words, urging both industry players and fans to focus on the facts of his accomplishments rather than getting bogged down in politics or distorted opinions. Stonebwoy made it clear that his goal was not to belittle other artistes or incite rivalry, but to simply acknowledge the hard work and dedication that went into achieving such a significant feat.

The Dancehall musician further emphasized that his comments were intended to shed light on the broader impact of his achievements, particularly in terms of the economic benefits that such events bring to Ghana. Stonebwoy pointed out that the success of events like his concerts has a ripple effect on various sectors of the economy, including hotels, airlines, local businesses, and other service providers. These industries, he noted, benefit directly from the influx of fans and visitors attending the events, contributing significantly to the local economy.

“Dancehall events like mine bring jobs and economic activity to the area. It’s not just about the music; it’s about how it impacts the broader economy, from hotel bookings to people working at the venue,” Stonebwoy explained. “We need to recognize that these events have a direct effect on the livelihoods of many people in Ghana.”

Stonebwoy also stressed the importance of celebrating achievements in the music industry without letting industry politics or fan rivalries overshadow the hard work that goes into such successes. He expressed concern that his accomplishments, such as selling out stadiums, were often downplayed or overlooked due to unnecessary controversies and unhealthy competition. He urged both fans and industry stakeholders to focus on the positive contributions made by artistes, rather than getting caught up in divisive debates.

“I want to remind people that my achievements are well-documented,” Stonebwoy said. “When I sell out a stadium, it’s not just a personal win—it’s a win for the entire music community and a boost for the economy. We all saw it, and it’s not something that can be denied.”

Furthermore, Stonebwoy called for unity within the industry, urging artistes, fans, and stakeholders to support each other in order to elevate Ghana’s music scene globally. He believes that if the industry comes together, it can achieve even greater success, benefiting not only the artistes but the country as a whole. He pointed out that every artiste has a role to play in shaping the future of Ghanaian music, and instead of engaging in negative criticism, the focus should be on growth, collaboration, and making positive contributions to the cultural landscape.

Stonebwoy’s comments reflect his unwavering commitment to his craft and his determination to see the music industry thrive. He believes that by focusing on the facts and the impact of his work, others will be inspired to continue pushing boundaries and making meaningful contributions to the cultural and economic development of the country. With his self-sponsorship of the upcoming BHIM concert, Stonebwoy hopes to lead by example, showing that with hard work, determination, and focus, artistes can achieve great things and create positive change.