Rapper Eno Barony says a large number of musical talents in the country, especially females, are often limited by societal norms to do Gospel music.
The ‘Rap Goddess’ hitmaker, also a Reverend Minister’s daughter, said many upcoming musicians have little or no option than to sing gospel music because there is a misconception about women who do not conform to the norm.
“It boils down to our background, where a woman is always expected to be God-fearing. It leaves most talented girls having to sing gospel music only, even against their will,” she said.
Speaking alongside industry colleague MzVee on Joy FM’s Strong & Sassy on the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field, the VGMA Rapper of the Year nominee said these beliefs make it difficult for aspiring female secular musicians to fully harness their potential.
She shared her experience in overcoming her family’s expectations on becoming a gospel musician because she sang in church as a child.
Eno Barony explained that this is the reason why there is a large number of women in the Ghanaian gospel music industry as opposed to the male-dominated secular music industry.
The musician, who openly identifies as a “non-conformist” also fumed at limitations placed on women in society.
“Women have always been restricted, and society always has a list of do’s and don’ts for the female child. But I think when you allow yourself to be limited, you never move ahead,” she said.
Eno Barony was addressing challenges women face in the music industry.