No positivity, no progress –Givtti to colleagues

Many have attributed lack of funds, government support, logistics and resources, among others, as what is stalling the growth of the Ghanaian creative industry. But, rapper and actress Givtti ShanDon believes until the sector is free of toxicity, it will continue to struggle.

She is advocating for a conducive, enabling, supportive and inclusive environment for artistes in the creative space to operate in order to scale up its growth and development.

Explaining in an exclusive interview with Graphic Showbiz, she said having an environment free of name-calling, insults and body shaming, among others, would foster togetherness, boost industry progress and protect the mental health of players.

“We often talk about how the industry is not growing but it is these things that stall our growth. How can one who keeps being body-shamed feel right to enter a booth to make music? We need to keep the space safe,” she said.

The We Don’t Play and Ego singer further appealed to the gatekeepers of the sector, such as pundits, to start by cutting down on insults during their submissions.

“When people like that are guilty of these things, it gives the fans the chance to also do the same as they begin to see these acts as normal.

“The same applies to us, the moment we start body shaming and calling each other names when we do not agree on issues, our fans will follow suit. It is only when we clean our homes that we can go out and tell others how to clean theirs,” she said.

Givtti is one of the artistes who has, over the period, stayed out of drama and kept a good image. She tells Graphic Showbiz that it is because she minds her business.

“I have avoided drama by minding my business, focusing on the success of my brand and not involving myself in unproductive and unnecessary issues,” she said.

She continued, “Staying genuine to yourself is crucial in maintaining a good image. People are often drawn to authenticity and can sense when someone is being insincere.”

Givtti is out with a new one, Goodbye, a heartbreak song which she disclosed has something to do with her past relationship.

“Just as the name sounds, it’s a way of letting go of these things and people that weren’t good for me. It has to do with my past relationships and behaviour that no longer serve me and I believe a lot of people can relate to that too,” she noted.

In an answer to whether venturing into music has been of help, she answered in the affirmative.

“Yes, venturing into music has helped me as an artiste in several ways. It has expanded my fan base, made my social life more grounded and also helped my voice and emotions be heard,” she said.

Touching on lessons she has learnt since she joined the entertainment industry, Givtti said, “Our mind is the most powerful tool that we have and can harness it for all levels of success in life. Whatever we put our mind to is what we attract. Therefore, we should always think positively,” she advised.