Budding Ghanaian artiste Bobi is urging celebrated musicians Edem and Stonebwoy to extend mentorship and support to emerging talents from the Volta Region, arguing that their leadership could help young artistes break into Ghana’s mainstream music industry.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Graphic Showbiz on Saturday, November 8, the Afrobeat and Afro-traditional musician stressed that mentorship remains a critical ingredient for growth, particularly for artistes struggling to gain visibility beyond Accra.
“That is why I’m appealing to our godfathers, Edem and Stonebwoy,” he said. “Both are Voltarians and highly respected in the industry. They are our seniors, and their guidance could help raise the next generation. Many talented artistes in Volta simply need exposure and direction.”
Bobi explained that building a career in the Volta Region is particularly demanding. Many young artistes, he noted, face resource constraints and forms of tribal bias, often forcing them to migrate to Accra in search of opportunities.
“Being from Volta comes with unique challenges. Tribalism exists. You have to hustle by yourself to record, shoot videos and promote your work. Opportunities are scarce, so we move to Accra, even though our music is not always welcomed,” he said.
Despite these hurdles, Bobi believes persistence eventually pays off. Citing an old saying, he remarked, “If you’re a good juju man, you don’t need adverts; people will come to you,” meaning true talent will always be discovered.
Currently without a management team, Bobi handles everything—from recording and video production to marketing—an experience he describes as difficult but fulfilling.
Beyond mentorship, he called on the government to invest more in Ghana’s entertainment sector, which he believes holds immense untapped potential. He argued that more platforms, competitions and industry-support initiatives are needed to unearth and develop young talent.
Born Edem Afanbalwe in Aflao, Bobi began his creative path as a dancer and later developed a passion for Francophone music. After relocating to Accra, he worked as a photographer for musicians Screwface and Klala, deepening his interest in entertainment.
His transition into music led him to form the duo RICO-BOBI with his brother, releasing Papa Chapeau in 2022. Bobi later pursued a solo career, releasing Yayra (Blessing) last year. He plans to release Agbetor Bada in December and is preparing his debut album for next year.
Bobi’s latest single, Homeless, draws from his life experiences and those of street youth, offering a message of resilience and hope.
