By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
Award-winning Ghanaian gospel musician and celebrated composer of several Black Stars anthems, Grace Ashley, has opened up about a deeply painful experience that brought an abrupt end to her musical contributions to Ghana’s national football teams.
In an exclusive interview, Grace Ashley revealed that a remark from former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah left her emotionally devastated and disheartened, forcing her to step away from creating patriotic songs for the national team.
According to the gospel singer, her passion for composing songs for the Black Stars was driven purely by love for the nation and a desire to motivate the players through music. However, that enthusiasm came to a sudden halt after an encounter with Appiah, who allegedly told her to stop making songs for the team if she wasn’t being paid for it.
“Stephen Appiah said to me, ‘If they are not paying you, stop composing songs for the Black Stars,’” Grace Ashley recounted. “That statement broke me. I had done those songs out of love for Ghana, not for money. But his words made me feel unappreciated, like my efforts didn’t matter.”
Grace Ashley is widely known for her inspirational and patriotic songs that have accompanied the Black Stars during major international tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and World Cup campaigns. Her songs became rallying cries for the team and a source of national pride for Ghanaians.
The revelation has sparked conversations among fans and industry observers, with many expressing disappointment over the incident and the lack of recognition given to artists who use their craft to support national causes.
While Grace Ashley maintains deep respect for Stephen Appiah and the Black Stars, she noted that the experience taught her a valuable lesson about appreciation and the challenges faced by creatives who contribute selflessly to national development.
“I still love my country and I still love football,” she added. “But that moment changed how I saw things. Sometimes, it’s not the lack of money that hurts it’s the lack of gratitude.”
Her revelation has reignited public discussion on how Ghana treats patriotic artists who use their platforms to uplift national pride through art and music.
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