Moliy Opens Up About Embracing Independence in the Music Industry
Ghanaian musician Moliy has spoken candidly about her choice to remain an independent artist, choosing freedom and creative autonomy over signing with a traditional record label. In a recent interview with Revolt T, the rising star shared personal insights into her journey, the motivations behind staying label-free, and the realities of navigating the music industry without the backing of a major company.
Moliy, best known for her upbeat Afro-fusion track “Shake It to the Max,” made it clear that her decision to pursue her music career independently wasn’t just accidental or out of necessity — it was intentional from the very beginning.
When asked whether not signing with a label was a conscious decision or something that simply happened along the way, Moliy didn’t hesitate to clarify. She explained that she has always been wary of record deals and the potential compromises that can come with them. For her, maintaining creative freedom and having full control over her music has always been the top priority.
“Yeah. I’ve always been kind of hesitant to be a label artist because I’ve just heard so many stories,” she said during the interview. “I always feel like the people I work with, I want to trust them. I want it to feel organic.”
For Moliy, music is deeply personal, and the idea of becoming just another name in a label’s roster doesn’t sit well with her. She believes in forming genuine and lasting relationships with the people she collaborates with, rather than being pushed into deals that may not align with her vision or values.
“I don’t just wanna be a name on a list. Music is very personal to me. So, I think if I did get locked in with a label, I hope it’s something that could be a real, long-lasting, organic relationship.”
Her reluctance to sign with a label comes from both a desire for authenticity and a need to retain full creative control. Moliy made it clear that the most rewarding aspect of being independent is the freedom to make her own artistic choices, without external pressure or interference.
“The most freeing part is just getting to do what I want creatively without someone telling me what to do. I don’t like being told what to do,” she said. “Also, if you’re not pushing yourself, if you’re not putting your foot on the gas, no one is gonna do it for you. That’s what I love the most.”
This independent spirit has clearly served her well. Over the past few years, Moliy has gained international recognition for her work, despite not having the traditional support structure that many signed artists rely on. Her success stands as proof that it is possible to thrive in the global music scene while maintaining independence.
However, Moliy also acknowledged that the path hasn’t always been smooth. While she’s grateful for the creative freedom and control she enjoys, being an independent artist also comes with significant challenges, especially when it comes to the business side of music.
One of the biggest hurdles she’s had to overcome is distribution — a crucial part of getting her music to fans around the world. Unlike artists signed to labels, who often have teams dedicated to promotion and distribution, independent musicians must often handle these responsibilities themselves or with a small team.
Moliy recounted a particularly difficult period in 2024 when she went an entire year without releasing new music. During that time, she and her manager were actively trying to secure a distribution deal to help get her music out to the public. Unfortunately, despite what seemed like promising conversations, progress stalled.
“I realized at some point, I was actively seeking [distribution]. I hadn’t released music for a whole year in 2024, and me and my manager were trying to get a [distribution deal] so I could put out music,” she said. “The conversations were sounding positive, but nothing was actually happening. I remember thinking, ‘Well, f**k it, I still wanna move. I don’t wanna be stagnant.’”
Her experience highlights a common reality for many independent musicians: while the creative side may flourish, the logistics of promotion, distribution, and exposure can often be an uphill battle. Without the backing of a label, artists like Moliy must rely heavily on self-motivation, networking, and strategic partnerships to get their music heard.
Despite the setbacks, Moliy’s story is one of resilience and self-determination. Her unwavering belief in her vision and her refusal to compromise for the sake of convenience or quick success is admirable. She continues to chart her own path, proving that independent artists can not only survive but thrive — even in an industry dominated by major labels.
As her profile continues to grow on the international stage, Moliy stands as an inspiration to other aspiring artists who may be considering a similar path. Her journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, persistence, and believing in one’s own creative voice.
