Ghanaian highlife and Afrobeat sensation Kuami Eugene has sparked a heated debate within the entertainment industry after boldly stating that “selling your catalog means your music is irrelevant.”
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His statement has drawn attention from musicians, producers, and music lovers alike, as the issue of who owns a music catalog has become one of the most important conversations in modern music.
For many Ghanaian artists, owning their master recordings and publishing rights has often been a struggle due to record label contracts, financial pressures, or lack of knowledge about intellectual property. Kuami Eugene’s comment shines a light on the deeper question every musician faces: should an artist sell their music catalog for instant financial gain, or hold onto it as a long-term legacy?
What Is a Music Catalog?
A music catalog simply refers to the collection of songs, albums, and compositions owned by an artist or songwriter. It includes every track the artist has written, performed, or recorded, and it generates revenue through streaming platforms, radio airplay, live performances, brand endorsements, commercials, and even movie soundtracks.
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For successful artists, their catalog becomes their most valuable asset. In many cases, the catalog continues to make money even after the artist is gone. This is why the sale of music catalogs has recently become a billion-dollar trend, with investors and companies buying rights from artists around the world.
Kuami Eugene’s Perspective
According to Kuami Eugene, selling a music catalog sends the wrong signal. He argues that music is a timeless art form and that great songs remain valuable across generations. Therefore, if an artist decides to sell their catalog, it may mean they no longer believe in the long-term relevance of their music.
He believes that an artist who owns his or her catalog has the power to keep shaping their brand, building generational wealth, and protecting their artistic legacy. By contrast, selling it off for a quick financial reward is like giving away a lifetime of creativity for a short-term solution.
His strong words have fueled discussions, especially among young artists in Ghana, who often face the temptation of selling their rights early in their careers due to financial struggles.
Why Artists Sell Their Music Catalogs
On the other hand, many industry insiders argue that selling a music catalog does not necessarily mean the music is irrelevant. Artists sometimes choose to sell their rights for the following reasons:
- Immediate Financial Security – A lump sum payment can provide comfort and reduce financial stress.
- Retirement Planning – Older artists may sell their catalog to secure funds for the future.
- Investment Opportunities – Some musicians sell to raise capital for new ventures or businesses.
- Declining Sales – When an artist believes their catalog will not generate significant revenue in the future, they may prefer to sell it off.
Still, Kuami Eugene’s point resonates: when an artist believes strongly in their music, they are more likely to hold on to it, confident that it will generate income for decades.
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The Ghanaian Music Industry and Catalog Ownership
In Ghana, the conversation around music catalog ownership is still evolving. Many artists sign contracts with record labels without fully understanding the rights they are giving away. This has left several legendary musicians struggling financially despite creating timeless hits that continue to play on radio and at events.
Kuami Eugene’s message, therefore, is not just a personal opinion but also a wake-up call to fellow Ghanaian musicians. By retaining control of their music catalogs, artists can secure their future earnings and protect their families’ financial stability.
Music Catalogs as a Legacy
A music catalog is more than just a collection of songs; it is an artist’s story, journey, and legacy. Kuami Eugene insists that artists should treat their catalogs as priceless treasures. A hit song today may seem like just another record, but twenty years from now, it could still be generating revenue across the world.
By holding on to their catalogs, artists can ensure that their names and works live on for generations. In this way, they are not only musicians but also visionaries who protect their legacies and create wealth for their families long after they are gone.
Kuami Eugene’s bold statement — “Selling your catalog means your music is irrelevant” — has undoubtedly stirred emotions within the music industry. While some may disagree and see catalog sales as a smart financial decision, his perspective raises an important question about value, legacy, and artistic confidence.
In the end, whether an artist chooses to sell or keep their music catalog, one truth remains: music is one of the most powerful forms of art, capable of crossing borders, touching souls, and lasting forever. For Kuami Eugene, keeping his catalog is not just about money — it is about preserving the timeless value of his craft.
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