Economist & Music Executive | Strategic Partner in Talent Development &
Creative Industry Growth | Empowering Talents, Shaping Dreams – River Oaks Records
David Ashbel’s story doesn’t begin in a boardroom or beneath bright stage lights—it begins in the quiet, rhythmic heartbeat of home. Long before he became a Music Executive or CEO of River Oaks Records, he was just a little boy in a modest Ghanaian household, wrapped in melodies, movement, and prayer. It was there—between the beat of the drum and the hum of faith-filled songs—that the blueprint of his purpose began to take shape. Music wasn’t something David stumbled upon; it lived in him. While other kids played outside, he was tucked behind a drum set at women’s fellowship meetings, bringing rhythm to rooms full of worship. He wasn’t taught music through textbooks—he lived it, one chord, one beat, one moment at a time. His fingers found keys, his soul found rhythm, and soon, music became the language through which he expressed everything he didn’t yet have words for. But it wasn’t just rhythm that stirred in him—it was leadership. At school, David led the music band with intention and precision, already learning how to move people through sound. But even in those early days, he understood that influence went beyond a stage—it required understanding, communication, and strategy. That’s why he pursued a degree in Economics at Central University. For David, it was never about choosing between art and intellect—it was about combining them. He wanted to understand how the world worked so he could better shape it. During university, he stepped into a new type of spotlight as a Unilever brand ambassador—a role that sharpened his voice, honed his ability to tell stories, and deepened his understanding of purpose-driven branding. By the time he graduated in 2019, David had already proven he could lead, communicate, and inspire. Yet something within him knew that his greatest impact would not be found in corporate corridors. His national service year at MTN Ghana was pivotal, not because it was a final destination, but because it revealed a deeper longing—one that couldn’t be silenced anymore. The safe path no longer satisfied the burning dream. He had seen the vision, and now he had to live it.
So he leapt—into uncertainty, into passion, into purpose. Music became more than a dream; it became a mission. There were no guarantees, no manual, and often, no resources. But there was faith. Faith that vision was enough to build something new. Faith that the boy who once played drums in church could one day lead a global movement. From Ghana to London, Switzerland to Nigeria, David’s journey began expanding beyond borders. But he didn’t just perform—he collaborated, directed, mentored, and built. His travels weren’t just tours—they were classrooms, stages, and proof that African talent belonged on the global stage.
Today, as the CEO of River Oaks Records, David leads with vision and conviction. His company doesn’t chase trends—it cultivates legacy. River Oaks is a home for African creatives where artistry is respected, nurtured, and turned into something lasting. It’s where raw talent is transformed into global resonance. But David’s heartbeat has always been bigger than business. It beats strongest in the 7 Initiative—a movement he founded to give back.
Through school visits, mentorship programs, and hands-on creative engagement, David steps into classrooms to remind young people that their creativity is not an afterthought—it’s an assignment. He knows what it’s like to be a young dreamer unsure of your place in the world. And he also knows the power of one voice that believes in you. The 7 Initiative is not just about music—it’s about identity. It’s about showing the next generation that their ideas are valid, their gifts are sacred, and their voices can shift culture. Because if there’s one truth David Ashbel carries, it’s this: background does not determine destiny—belief does. Every artist he works with, every child he mentors, every platform he builds—it all points back to the same purpose: rising not just for self, but so others can rise too.
David’s story is still unfolding, but it has already become a symphony of resilience, faith, leadership, and unshakable belief in the power of purpose. And if you’re a young person reading this, wondering if your rhythm matters—know this: your story is far from over. It’s just beginning.
