Public Agenda (Accra)
Jessica Mcelfresh
4 July 2008
Humanitarian and musician, Ras Kwame-I, (Komfo) released his newest album, "Forward Ever" on July 2, 2008 and he described the sound as a soothing blend of reggae and rock steady.
Ras Kwame-I is based in Chicago, Illinois, USA, but he said growing up in Ghana inspired all his music. At the launch of his album, guests including a representative of the Hon. Mr. Sampson Kwaku Boafo, Minister for Chieftaincy and Culture Affairs and Prof. Kwasi Ampene from the College of Music in Boulder, Colorado, USA praised Ras Kwame-I's works.
Ampene introduced Ras Kwame-I and discussed his own concerns for the future of the music industry as they relate to Ghana. Ampene cited the growing trend of piracy, the low sound quality of recordings and the flood of Western music as a few of the many challenges facing Ghanaian musicians in their struggle to gain exposure in Ghana and throughout the world. But, Ampene added, people like Ras Kwame-I who take the time to create high quality albums with a strong emphasis on addressing social issues in his lyrics, embody a positive image to represent Ghana on an international stage.
While explaining the purpose of "Forward Ever," guest Ras Caleb Appiah-Levi said the album represented a movement toward a new Africa without divisions between countries- a Pan African consciousness. "What steps can be done to bring together one Africa?" Appiah-Levi asked the audience to consider when thinking about "Forward Ever."
The first three available albums were signed by Ras Kwame-I and then auctioned off at the launch. After a series of laughter and bidding, the very first copy of "Forward Ever" sold for GH¢220.
In 1996, Ras Kwame-I and his wife began the musical production company Wan Afrika Productions in order to use music as a mechanism to unite people, decrease violence, foster health and maintain democracy. "Wan Afrika is an idea whose time has come," said Ras Kwame-I. "Wan Afrika is having a common destiny." Ras Kwame-I cited other examples of unity in the USA, in Europe and the evolving unity in Asia. Wan Afrika Productions has produced three of Ras Kwame-I's albums and Sikafutro Productions has produced eight.
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