Speaking in an interview on 3FM, monitored by MyNewsGh, the veteran artiste lamented that local radio stations and selectors increasingly prioritise foreign music at the expense of indigenous reggae sounds.
According to him, this imbalance has serious financial implications for Jamaican musicians, particularly when royalty payments are calculated.
“In Jamaica, selectors play more foreign music,” Mojah said. “So when royalty payouts are done every year, it is American artistes who benefit the most.”
He argued that the system often sidelines conscious reggae, forcing some musicians to adjust their sound or message simply to remain relevant and visible in the industry.
“There is no justice in the music system in Jamaica,” he stated. “Some artistes are compelled to sing certain types of songs just to keep their fan base.”
Fantan Mojah also challenged the assumption that international recognition automatically translates into financial success for reggae musicians, noting that many artistes continue to struggle despite global acclaim.
“We wouldn’t say we make money from this,” he said. “We don’t do music because of money. We do it out of love.”
Addressing rumours about his health, the reggae star dismissed reports suggesting he had collapsed, describing the claims as false and misleading.
“That story was fake news,” he clarified. “People say anything for attention. Nothing like that happened.”
Mojah further highlighted Africa as an important spiritual and economic destination for reggae music, describing the continent as a space where the genre is better understood and respected.
“Africa understands how the market works,” he said, adding that the continent presents new opportunities for reggae artistes seeking authenticity rather than commercial distortion.
As he prepares to perform at the upcoming Bhim Festival, Fantan Mojah noted that his focus remains on legacy and meaningful impact rather than past controversies.
“Some things are already history,” he said. “You leave them there.”