'What kind of hunger would make me sell my catalogue?' – Kuami Eugene

Ghanaian highlife and Afrobeats star Kuami Eugene has sparked debate among fans and industry watchers after making a strong statement about maintaining ownership of his music catalogue.

In a video shared by EDHUB on X, the award-winning musician firmly dismissed the idea of selling his catalogue—a move that has become increasingly popular among global artists.

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Kuami Eugene stated:

The “Angela” and “Wish Me Luck” hitmaker stressed that his music remains commercially vibrant, insisting that selling off his catalogue is unnecessary. His comments arrive at a time when several international acts, particularly in the West, have sold their catalogues for massive pay-outs, often citing financial stability or waning relevance. Kuami Eugene, however, positioned himself as an artist who believes in the lasting appeal of his creations and their future earning potential.

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His remarks come against the backdrop of reports that some of Ghana’s leading Afrobeats and Dancehall artists have signed deals with Waka Music Limited, a company that manages and distributes catalogues to extend global reach. These partnerships are viewed as strategic moves to monetise extensive back catalogues internationally.

A music catalogue refers to the complete body of songs, compositions, and recordings owned or controlled by an artist, songwriter, or label. It may include:

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Released songs (singles, EPs, and albums)

Unreleased tracks and demos

Publishing rights (lyrics, compositions, melodies)

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Master rights (the sound recordings themselves)

Leasing a catalogue means the owner temporarily grants another entity the rights to use the music—typically for commercial purposes—in exchange for financial compensation.

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