Ghanaian musician Kwesi Arthur has accused his former record label, Ground Up Chale, and its Chief Executive Officer, Glen Boateng, of falsely claiming ownership over his music, image and personal brand years after their professional relationship ended.
In a public statement, the award-winning artiste alleged that the label continues to assert control over “my person, my image, my music and everything attached to it from 2016 to this day,” despite the fact that he says he has not been affiliated with Ground Up Chale since the release of his Son of Jacob project. Kwesi Arthur also claimed he did not receive any financial compensation from his music throughout his time with the label.
According to the musician, he is now being asked to pay $150,000 to use images of himself for a recent independent project he describes as a release made specifically for his fans. He further accused the label’s CEO of intimidation, manipulation and repeated attempts to block him from releasing music independently.
Kwesi Arthur warned that if his current project is taken down, Glen Boateng should be held responsible, adding that the ongoing dispute has taken a toll on his mental health and overall wellbeing.
The artiste also stated that Glen Boateng and members of the Ground Up Chale team should be held accountable if any harm comes to him, explaining that his decision to speak publicly was motivated by concerns for his own safety and that of his family.
These allegations reflect claims made solely by Kwesi Arthur. As of the time of publication, Ground Up Chale and its CEO have not issued a public response.
