Djembe Music Blog

Male artists can also support female artists, and it’s essential for everyone to support each other, as everyone needs backing and belief from others. In the heart of West Africa’s vibrant music scene, where rhythm and melody intertwine to create the soundtrack of a continent, there exists a compelling narrative of resilience and determination. It’s a story of female artists who have dared to dream and carve their path in
the African music industry, defying stereotypes and shattering the glass ceiling.

In this special episode of Djembemusicblog, we delve into the world of these uprising female artists, their journeys, and the formidable challenges they face on their quest for recognition and acceptance. While the African music industry has seen remarkable growth and
innovation, it remains a predominantly male-dominated arena, with male artists often taking center stage in marketing and promotion.
Join us as we hear from one of the industry’s most
enigmatic figures, The Masked DJ (TMSKDJ), a
Ghanaian talent who has not only conquered the
turntables but also broken barriers with her distinctive style. Her story is a testament to the unwavering passion of female artists and a call to arms for a more inclusive and diverse music scene in Africa.

In this candid interview, TMSKDJ shares her journey, the challenges she’s encountered, and her vision for the future. As we explore her experiences and insights, we also aim to spark a conversation about the pivotal role that male artists, fans, and industry professionals can
play in fostering a more inclusive and diverse music landscape in Africa.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music, and how did you get started?

I didn’t plan on pursuing a career in music. Growing up, I used to listen to a lot of music and watch many music videos. It was in 2013 when I got to university and downloaded virtual DJ on my laptop. My best friend came into the room and asked if I was a DJ. I told him I wasn’t, but it fascinated me. He offered to bring someone to teach me, and I thought he was joking. The
next day, he brought the guy, and he began teaching me. We started with the basics in virtual DJ, and in about a week or two, I could do it. Even when I discovered I could, I didn’t think I would pursue a career in music, but the more I played around with it, the more interesting it became. I found out about a competition in Accra, which needed a DJ, and I applied. During the
competition, I met other DJs, including some I looked up to. I talked to them, learned from them, and gradually started getting bookings. I began with bookings from my campus, such as birthday parties, and here I am ten years later.

Can you share some of the challenges you’ve
encountered as a female artist in the African music industry?

In most industries worldwide, opportunities often go to men before women. DJing and music are very male-dominated fields. One of the challenges we face is that women are usually considered as a backup rather than a first choice. This was one of the challenges I faced.

Do you think there are stereotypes or
misconceptions about female artists in the industry, and if so, how do you challenge or change them?

There is often a stereotype that men can do better in the music industry. However, I’ve met many women who excel in their field. Changing these stereotypes will take time. What I’ve done is carve my own path, which has created opportunities for other DJs and artists in Ghana.
When I started ten years ago, the music scene was
monotonous, with a focus on Afrobeat and hip-hop but my involvement in DJing led to a diversification of the music landscape, with more DJs playing different genres.

In a predominantly male-dominated industry, how important is it for female artists to support and uplift each other?

In a male-dominated industry, it’s crucial for female artists to support and uplift each other. However, it’s not limited to one gender supporting their own. Male artists can also support female artists, and it’s essential for
everyone to support each other, as everyone needs backing and belief from others.

How do you perceive the balance of opportunities between male and female artists when it comes to marketing and promotion?

The balance of opportunities between male and female artists in marketing and promotion varies depending on the specific area of the music industry. It’s not a one- size-fits-all situation, as both men and women can be marketed and promoted more in different aspects of the
industry.

Could you share any experiences where you felt your gender played a role in how your music was received or promoted?

I haven’t felt that my gender has played a role in how my music is received or promoted. When people believe in your abilities and book you, they expect you to deliver, regardless of your gender. So, I don’t believe my gender has affected how my music is perceived or promoted.

How do you envision the future of the African music industry and the place of female artists within it?

The future of the African music industry looks
promising, with more diversity, boundary-breaking, and opportunities. While Afrobeat is popular in West Africa, there’s also growth in other genres such as dance music, alternative music, and rock ‘n’ roll. South Africans are making strides in deep house and Amapiano. African music is breaking boundaries and
topping charts, indicating a significant transformation from what it used to be.

What message or advice would you give to male artists, fans, and industry professionals to foster a more inclusive and diverse music scene in Africa?

To foster a more inclusive and diverse music scene in Africa, it’s important to include everyone in the ecosystem, from lawyers to publicists, DJs, bands, managers, and more. Collaboration and unity are essential, and working together can achieve common goals. The past few years have been great for African music, and we can only hope for the best in the future.