I knew it was going to be challenging– KiDi speaks on independent music journey

Ghanaian musician KiDi has opened up about the challenges of working as an independent artiste and the added responsibilities that come with managing a music career without the backing of a record label.

The award-winning musician explained that becoming an independent artiste has required him to take on responsibilities beyond making music. He now has to oversee different aspects of his career and ensure that the business side of his operations runs smoothly.

Speaking in an interview with Kafui Dey,  KiDi said working independently is significantly different from being part of a structured team.

“Working as an independent artiste is different. It’s very challenging, but one thing about me is I’m always ready for the challenge,” he stated.

According to KiDi, although he knew his decision to become independent would come with difficulties, he welcomed the opportunity because of the growth it offered him.

“Having to stand on my own, having my own people, directing stuff on my own, I knew it was going to be a little challenging, but I’m always up for it and for the growth,” he shared.

KiDi compared his transition into independent music to moving out of his parents’ home and taking full responsibility for adulthood.

“It’s like moving out from your parents’ house. They clothe you, feed you and everything, but you have to leave the house and start life on your own,” he said.

He explained that just as adulthood comes with responsibilities such as securing a home, building a family and taking care of one’s children, independence in music also requires an artiste to take charge of virtually every aspect of their career.

“According to him, just as adulthood comes with responsibilities such as securing a home, building a family and taking care of one’s children, independence in music also requires an artiste to take charge of every aspect of their career.”

KiDi acknowledged that the journey has not been easy but expressed gratitude to the people around him who have helped make the transition easier.

“It’s not an easy thing, but I’m always grateful for the people around me who have been able to make it easier for me,” he noted.

KiDi also revealed that he was previously accustomed to concentrating primarily on his music while other people handled the business and operational aspects of his career.

However, his current position as an independent artiste requires him to be much more involved in the day-to-day running of his career.

“I was so used to being an artiste; when I wake up, I have to just be an artiste, but now I’m not just an artiste, but I’m also running stuff,” he revealed.

He explained that he now has to ensure that the different parts of his career are functioning properly and that tasks are completed as required.

“Making sure the engine is running, what needs to be done is being done, and it’s like running a business,” he added.