Ghanaian comedian and event MC, Lekzy DeComic

Ghanaian comedian and event MC Lekzy DeComic has sparked a discussion around the decline of compact discs (CDs) and pen drives in Ghana’s official music distribution channels.

In a Facebook post on June 26, 2025, he noted that he observed unauthorised vendors selling music loaded onto these physical formats in traffic, with motorists actively buying them.

“If people are out here selling musicians’ songs on CDs and pen drives — and I just saw a few cars actually buying from one guy — then why aren’t musicians themselves selling CDs anymore?” he asked.

He pointed out that while streaming platforms are dominant, they haven’t reached everyone, creating an opportunity for physical formats.

“Charley, not everyone understands this streaming thing, so others are cashing in big time,” Lekzy observed.

Platforms like Spotify, Boomplay, Apple Music, and local services such as Aftown have transformed the music distribution landscape, allowing millions of listeners worldwide to access songs easily.

However, many artistes in Ghana argue that financial returns from these platforms remain low due to limited monetisation and low streaming literacy.

Gospel singer Philipa Baafi, among others, has urged artists to combine streaming with physical sales via CDs and pen drives.

She emphasized that the industry rushed into digital without fully capitalising on hard-copy revenue, particularly in cars and church settings.

Music producer Kavya highlighted that CDs foster a tangible connection with fans and can be sold at events, while veteran musician Akosua Agyapong noted that branded CDs can become collectors’ items.

However, gospel artiste Great Ampong warned that CDs and pen drives have also been exploited by pirates, hurting artists' income when content is sold without permission on the streets.

ID/KA