Ghanaian music duo, Dope Nation, have shared their thoughts about the music scene in Ghana, explaining that a lot of what’s considered new in music is actually based on copying and modifying existing elements.
They stated that in Ghana, music is often developed by taking progressions and melodies from previous songs and converting them into something new.
Speaking in an interview on TV3 they said, “Our fundamentals when it comes to music is copying because when you take our progressions and melodies, they are from old songs. We just bite them and create them into something new.”
“We can’t say we’re creating something new; it can’t happen because the keys and melodies are just there and have been exhausted; the only thing that can be done is to make them evolve.”
They did underline, however, that true innovation is about evolving these existing aspects. While they don’t feel they’re inventing anything wholly new, they do see possibilities in transforming existing pieces in novel ways.
Dope Nation also talked about their new musical approach, dubbed ‘Ghanapiano.’ They mentioned that they are mixing many genres to create this new sound. They saw that the world is paying attention to African music and the piano sound, so they’re using this opportunity to create something unique by researching and shaping the tunes with their own instruments.
When asked if they believe Ghanaians will embrace their new sound, they expressed optimism. They explained that aspects of ‘Ghanapiano’ were already present in some of their prior tracks, but that it now has its own character.
They feel that, while they aren’t creating something entirely new, they can make old musical elements evolve in novel ways.
They’re also pleased about their new sound, dubbed ‘Ghanapiano,’ which combines many music styles, and they believe Ghanaians will appreciate it.
