It’s a Man’s World — But Veana Negasi Is Changing the Tune
Ghanaian-based singer and songwriter Veana Negasi- Photo credit DM Media
Accra, Ghana — Ghanaian-based singer and songwriter Veana Negasi has opened up about her evolution in the country’s music scene, describing her three-year journey as “a challenging yet deeply rewarding learning curve.” In an exclusive interview with DM Media Online, the Ghanaian artist spoke candidly about the discipline it takes to build a career as a woman in music, her admiration for fellow artists like Molly, and her hope for a new era where women take center stage in African entertainment. “Being a full-time artist has changed my mindset completely,” Veana told DM Media. “You realize quickly that talent alone isn’t enough — you have to write, compose, shoot, promote, and manage yourself. It’s a full-time commitment.”
Veana first caught attention performing song covers, but stepping into original artistry pushed her beyond comfort zones. Now she writes and composes her own tracks, drawing inspiration from real-life experiences. “Love songs come naturally to me because they’re drawn from life. Every lyric has a heartbeat behind it,” she said.
Like many women in music, Veana has had to navigate a male-dominated industry where image and perception often overshadow artistry.
“It’s a boys’ club,” she admitted. “You’re constantly under pressure to look perfect, to brand yourself a certain way, and sometimes your work isn’t taken seriously. There are unwanted advances too. It’s part of what we navigate.”
Having a male team member, she added, often helps navigate industry barriers. “Having a man on the team helps in spaces where conversations can get uncomfortable. It’s not ideal, but it’s protection in a system that still doesn’t treat women equally.”
Veana credits her growth partly to observing her peers. She lit up when discussing Ghanaian artist Molly, whose persistence she finds inspiring.
“I’m so impressed by Molly. Her song took a while to chart, but she never stopped pushing it. She carried it on her chest and gave people no option but to listen,” Veana said. “Now she’s one of the most listened-to artists on Spotify not just female artists, but overall. That’s huge.”
She paused, smiling: “I want women to overtake the boys so badly. I want us to break records, top charts, and lead this industry. The men have dominated for far too long, it’s our time now.”
Though she believes in collaboration among female artists, Veana acknowledges that unity is easier said than done.
“It’s a great idea, but there are real barriers. Fan base divisions, egos, and the small number of women in the space make it difficult. But we need it we’re stronger together.”
She also called for a better-structured industry to support independent artists. “We need working royalty systems and accountability. Music is a business that fuels the economy. Artists deserve fair returns and protection just like any other sector.”
The “VEX” singer revealed that she’s currently working on a remix with two Ghanaian artists and an EP that tells her personal story through sound. She also teased a live show scheduled for early December.
Her dream collaborations span Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and beyond. “Music is borderless,” she said. “I’d love to work with Shatta Wale, Sarkodie, Amaarae, Black Sherif even Tyla or Tems. Art has no passport.”
Before signing off, Veana reflected on gratitude and growth. “I’m thankful for everyone who’s supported me from day one. I’m still evolving, still learning. There’s more to come new sounds, new stories, and, hopefully, a new space for women to lead.”
Read Also
