Why Yaw Darling Says He Struggles More On A Record Label Than Being Independent
Ghanaian musician Yaw Darling has openly discussed the challenges he has faced since signing with a record label, saying that his experience under a label has been more difficult than when he was independent. In a recent interview on Hitz FM, he explained that being signed has brought pressures that he did not fully expect and which have created strain on his career progress.
Yaw Darling said his decision to join a record label was driven by financial need earlier in his journey when he was struggling and hoping a deal would make life easier. He explained that where he comes from is tough, which made the opportunity feel urgent at the time. However he has since realised that the expectations and constraints of a record deal have been hard to manage and more challenging than working independently.
The artist noted that many musicians, including himself, often focus on the benefits of signing a contract but overlook the restrictions that can come with it. He shared that artists sometimes miss important details when signing, especially because the excitement about financial support can cloud judgment on key contractual issues.
Yaw Darling’s comments have added to broader conversations among Ghanaian artists about the pros and cons of record deals. Some musicians feel that labels can provide structure and resources that help grow careers. Others argue that independence allows for greater creative freedom and control over one’s work. Yaw Darling’s experience reflects the latter view and highlights the trade offs artists weigh when deciding how to manage their careers.
His interview contributes to ongoing debates in the music industry about artist empowerment, contract fairness and what it really means to succeed in a competitive field. Whether under a label or independent, many artists continue to search for balance between artistic vision and financial stability.
