Acclaimed singer and songwriter, Noella Wiyaala known popularly as Wiyaala recently opened up about the challenges she faced at the start of her career due to singing in her native Sissala language.In an interview on 3FM Lounge, she expressed disappointment with Ghanaians who initially didn't embrace her musical style.

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The award-winning artist revealed that she encountered body shaming and a lack of appreciation for her music when she first entered the music scene.“The disappointing part was immediately I stepped out only Ghanaians living abroad, diaspora accepted me. They just accepted me quick, but the authentic Ghanaian were not even minding me.

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“They were like that girl is she not a footballer? They were talking about how I’m going to beat somebody, my body is too hard, my back is too flat and my body is too hard,” Wiyaala stated.She recounted how Ghanaians living abroad, the diaspora community, were quick to accept her, contrasting sharply with the reception from those in Ghana.

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Wiyaala shared, "The disappointing part was immediately I stepped out only Ghanaians living abroad, diaspora accepted me. They just accepted me quick, but the authentic Ghanaian were not even minding me."She elaborated on the criticism she faced, including comments about her physique and musical style.Despite these challenges, she found solace and support from the diaspora community, which propelled her forward.

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Wiyaala explained that she followed her instincts to focus on international markets where her music found acceptance, anticipating that local audiences would eventually come around.

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Regarding attempts to adapt her style by featuring other Ghanaian artists, she revealed the financial strain and lack of success, asserting, "I tried but I was not doing that because I wanted to but the people around me wanted to feature some few artistes in Ghana so they will introduce you."Despite initial setbacks, Wiyaala stayed true to her unique style, leading to numerous awards and international recognition as the 'Sissala Goddess.

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'Her story underscores the resilience and determination required to carve a niche in the music industry.

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