Traditional Music Is Not Outdated – Sherifa Gunu Asserts

Renowned Ghanaian traditional musician, Sherifa Gunu, has spoken out strongly against the stigmatization of traditional music in Ghana, saying it is unfairly labeled as outdated or “colo”—a local slang for something old-fashioned. According to her, this perception is not only misleading but harmful to the country’s cultural identity.

In an interview with Graphic Showbiz on Monday, April 7, the celebrated artist expressed deep disappointment over the growing tendency among Ghanaian musicians and audiences to disregard traditional music. She believes that rather than being seen as backward, traditional music should be recognized as a vibrant and essential part of Ghana’s musical heritage.

“It’s really sad that in Ghana, traditional music is often looked down upon. People act like it’s irrelevant, like it belongs in the past,” she said. “But this music reflects who we are—it’s our soul, our story, our voice.”

Sherifa Gunu, whose birth name is Osman Sherifatu Gunu, shared her frustration that even within the local industry, some artists are reluctant to work with her simply because she is associated with traditional music. She noted that these same artists, who avoid local sounds at home, often incorporate African instruments and elements when they perform abroad to gain international appeal.

“It’s ironic,” she explained. “Some of the people who wouldn’t collaborate with me in Ghana suddenly start playing drums, flutes, and traditional instruments when they’re in Europe. There, they want to be seen as authentic Africans. But here, they try so hard to sound like they’re from somewhere else.”

The musician, known for fusing northern rhythms with Afro-soul and highlife influences, praised Nigerian artistes for how they embrace and promote their roots unapologetically. She pointed out that Nigeria’s success on the global music stage is largely due to their commitment to cultural representation.

“Look at how Nigerian artists carry their identity with pride,” she said. “They’re exporting their culture through their music, and the world is listening. Meanwhile, we here in Ghana are sidelining our own sound because we want to be seen as ‘modern’. That mindset is holding us back.”

Sherifa encouraged Ghanaian musicians to stop chasing global trends blindly and instead focus on creating music that is rooted in their culture. She emphasized that staying true to one’s roots is the secret to longevity in the industry.

“Following trends may bring quick attention, but it doesn’t last. Music that connects with the heart, music that carries heritage—those are the songs that live forever,” she said. “Look at legends like Osibisa, Amakye Dede, and Angelique Kidjo. They stayed true to themselves and became icons. You don’t need to sound foreign to make an impact.”

Sherifa also urged young artists not to view traditional music as something inferior, but rather as a foundation on which to build something fresh and unique. She referred to trend-based music as “fast food”—quick, popular, but forgettable—and called on the next generation to create more meaningful and lasting art.

“My music doesn’t follow trends. It’s built on truth and culture, and that’s why it stands the test of time,” she said. “I want to tell the younger generation: you don’t have to erase your roots to succeed. Be proud of who you are.”

Sherifa Gunu rose to national prominence in the late 1990s after placing second in the Embassy Pleasure national dance competition. Since then, she has built a rich career with albums like Dagbon, Akwaaba Wo Africa, African Woman, and Salamatu. Through her music, she continues to celebrate Ghana’s diverse culture, especially the traditions of northern Ghana.

Her message is clear: traditional music isn’t a thing of the past—it’s the heartbeat of Ghana. Embracing it isn’t backward. It’s brave. It’s necessary. And it’s powerful.