Upper East Region-based musician and content creator Joyce Akatiga, popularly known as AJ Sugar, has alleged that some female musicians are asked for sexual favours by men in exchange for support and opportunities to advance their careers.
AJ Sugar, who has been pursuing music for more than a decade, says such experiences are among the challenges confronting women trying to build careers in the music industry.
Speaking on Bolga FM’s Tooma La Dengo Sanga, she alleged that some men who are in a position to assist female artistes make sexual demands before providing the support they need.
She also claimed that some people who recognise the talent and potential of female musicians refuse to support them and instead spread negative stories about them.
AJ Sugar said such experiences could discourage women from pursuing music professionally and urged female artistes to remain focused and committed to developing their careers despite the challenges.
Her own journey in music dates back to 2010, after developing an interest in singing partly through her involvement in her church choir. She entered the recording studio in 2011 and subsequently released her first song, “Basiyama.”
“There are musicians in my family, but I am the only one who is out there,” she said.
AJ Sugar said she has since released several albums, each containing between six and eight songs, while continuing to navigate the challenges of building a career without a manager.
She currently manages much of her career herself, with support from fans and other individuals who attend her programmes and sometimes provide financial assistance.
Despite the challenges, AJ Sugar said she remains committed to music. She also disclosed that she holds a Master’s degree and acknowledged established musicians who have contributed to her career.
She singled out Frafra Kologo musician Ayuune Sule, as well as Abagna Gongo and other artistes, for supporting and promoting her work.
AJ Sugar recalled that Ayuune Sule once gave her a verse on one of his songs, an opportunity she described as a memorable moment in her musical journey.
She appealed to businesses, event organisers, media houses, music industry stakeholders and music lovers to invest more in female musicians in the Upper East Region.
According to her, greater investment and access to opportunities could help female artistes build sustainable careers and contribute to the growth of the regional music industry.
Meanwhile, Augustine Akugre Anasageyah, popularly known as Kokonsa, praised AJ Sugar for her dedication and persistence in pursuing her career.
He said her determination demonstrates what women can achieve when given the necessary opportunities and support and encouraged young people to rally behind her career.
Kokonsa also urged the public to recognise and support young people making positive contributions to their communities rather than discouraging them.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga
