Ghanaian singer and songwriter RCee has opened up about his disappointment following the release of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards nominations, stressing that his concerns go beyond personal recognition and focus more on the cultural impact of Highlife music.

During an appearance on The Corporate Lounge on Class 91.3FM with Irene Serwaa Kwarfo, the artist explained that his reaction was rooted in a deep desire to see highlife—especially its modern evolution—receive the recognition it deserves within the Ghanaian music industry.

According to RCee, his disappointment was not about himself but about what he represents musically.

He noted that he is passionate about making a cultural impact by reconnecting with Ghana’s musical roots and presenting them in a way that resonates with the new generation.

“I think why I expressed my disappointment was because of the cultural impact,” he said.

“I’m very keen on influencing culture—digging into the roots and making the new school appreciate what we already have. I’m part of the new school, and I hoped to inspire through these sounds.”

The artist emphasised that highlife remains a foundational genre in Ghana’s music identity, and recognition from major platforms like the TGMAs plays a key role in elevating its relevance among younger audiences.

He added that his disappointment reflects the sentiments of many who are eager to see a resurgence of highlife in mainstream spaces.

“For me, it wasn’t about me—it was about the people who genuinely want this new highlife to be recognized by an industry that has always claimed to push the genre,” he explained. “That’s what made it hurt the most.”

RCee further expressed hope that songs representing the new wave of highlife would be acknowledged in the future, not just for the sake of awards, but to signal a cultural shift.

“The most important thing is for people to see the song and for the industry to put it up there. It goes hand in hand to elevate it,” he added.