I Do Not Need To Travel Abroad To Be An International Artiste, Shatta Wale Responds To Critics
Ghanaian dancehall musician Charles Nii Armah Mensah Jr., popularly known as Shatta Wale, has dismissed claims that an artiste must frequently travel abroad to be considered internationally recognised.
Speaking during a radio discussion, the musician argued that global recognition is not determined solely by international travel or performing overseas. According to him, an artiste can build a global brand and audience even while operating primarily from their home country.
Shatta Wale explained that the influence of digital platforms and social media has changed the way music travels across borders. He noted that artistes can now reach international audiences through online streaming, social media engagement and global collaborations without necessarily relocating abroad.
The dancehall artiste also pointed to his own career as evidence that global recognition can be achieved from Ghana. He stated that his music and brand have attracted attention from international industry players and fans around the world.
According to him, the perception that Ghanaian musicians must travel outside the country to gain international status is outdated. He believes what truly matters is the impact of the music and the size of the audience it reaches globally.
Shatta Wale further referenced his collaboration with international superstar Beyoncé on the song Already, suggesting that such partnerships demonstrate his global reach as an artiste.
The musician added that he has performed on international platforms over the years, although some of those appearances were not widely publicised, especially during periods when social media was not as dominant as it is today.
His comments were aimed at critics who have sometimes described him as a local champion because he is not frequently seen performing abroad. Shatta Wale insists that an artiste’s global influence should be measured by impact, recognition and collaborations rather than travel alone.
The discussion has sparked debate among music fans, with some agreeing that global influence can be built from anywhere in the world, while others believe international tours remain an important part of achieving worldwide recognition.
