Tamale-based musician Mujahid Ahmed Bello, popularly known as Fancy Gadam, has publicly criticised the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) after receiving a royalty payment of just GH¢123.82—an amount he says does not reflect his years of active contribution to Ghana’s music industry.
Reacting to the payment, the award-winning artiste questioned the methodology GHAMRO uses in calculating and distributing royalties. He described the amount as “deplorably inadequate,” especially considering the widespread popularity and consistent airplay of his music across the country.
Fancy Gadam’s comments have reignited long-standing concerns among Ghanaian musicians over transparency, fairness, and accountability in the country’s royalty distribution system.
Several artistes have previously complained that despite enjoying significant radio play, streaming numbers, and public performances, the financial returns they receive remain disproportionately low.
The renewed debate adds pressure on GHAMRO to clarify its royalty calculation processes and engage more openly with rights holders, as calls for reforms within the music royalty system continue to grow.
By Miss Melody
