Music plays a crucial role in “The Kitchen,” Netflix’s poignant new dystopian drama, featuring unexpected star power both on and off-screen and highlife songs from Ghana on its soundtrack.
The film, which was released on January 14, 2024, has been praised for its gripping storyline and impressive performances from its cast. The inclusion of Ghanaian music on the soundtrack adds another layer of depth to the film’s immersive world. The soundtrack for “The Kitchen” features highlife songs “Kyenkyen Bi Adi M’awu” by Alhaji K. Frimpong and “Odo Nwom” by Kofi Nti, Ofori Amponsah, and Barosky.
Released in 2004, “Odo Nwom” quickly gained popularity as a quintessential contemporary highlife track, which was part of the songs on their joint album titled “Rakia.”
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In contrast, the timeless classic “Kyenkyen Bi Adi M’awu” was released in 1976 as one of eight outstanding songs on a vinyl album. Many artistes including Reggie Rockstone, have since sampled the song for their projects.
One would ask, What does this mean to the late Frimpong’s estate, Kofi Nti, Ofori Amponsah, and Barosky as far as royalties and compensations are concerned? Do artiste get paid if their song is in a movie? The answer is yes. Payment varies widely depending on the kind of show or film using your music. Money is earned in two ways: the licensing fee, paid up front to the writer or artiste, and the performance royalty, which is distributed to the writer by a performing rights organisation.
The inclusion of these songs on the soundtrack highlights the rich and diverse musical culture of Ghana and adds to the songs’ longevity and originality, which is a testament to the global reach of Ghanaian music and its ability to transcend borders and cultures.
Other songs featured on the movie’s soundtrack include “Zombie” by Nigerian Afrobeat originator Fela Kuti.
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