Category: Entertainment

  • Shatta Wale & Stonebwoy Uniting?The Bigger Picture –  Kobby JosVan speaks

    Shatta Wale & Stonebwoy Uniting?The Bigger Picture – Kobby JosVan speaks

    Rather than escalating the conflict and commotion between Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy, I believe it would be better to work together to promote harmony and peace between these two incredible and remarkable artists.

    Who is Shatta Wale?

    Shatta Wale is a popular Ghanaian musician known for his dancehall and reggae-influenced music. He has amassed a sizable fan base and put out a lot of successful songs.

    Who is Stonebwoy?
    Stonebwoy is another talented Ghanaian musician who specializes in dancehall and reggae music. He has a sizable fan base and has also experienced considerable success. Both Stonebwoy and Shatta Wale are prominent figures in the Ghanaian music industry.

    To draw a line here, both artists are well-known, prominent and have accomplished a lot in their own unique ways.

    Imagine both celebrities putting aside their differences to work together towards a single creative mission; the outcomes will be astounding.

    Taking you back to 2019, at Ashaiman to The World, a street and outdoor event organized by Stonebwoy as means to show love and pay back to society where Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy shared the stage and performed together. It was an event and a history that would never be forgotten in Ghana Music’s annals. Not to talk about the fun, love and buzz that event generated.

    The Asaase Radio Sound Clash

    Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy’s Asaase Radio sound battle was an exciting spectacle. It gave a unique opportunity for them to interact with their fans and displayed their amazing talents. The two artists engaged in friendly competition and a great deal of excitement following the clash. It was an iconic moment for the fans of both Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy, solidifying their positions as the biggest musicians in Ghanaian music.

    However, what are we currently witnessing? It hurts me to watch these incredible acts of fighting all the time.

    Yes, indeed! If a cause is identified, potential remedies may also exist.

    In my opinion, the media is exacerbating the conflict between Shatta and Stonebwoy. We will continue to face these problems in our industry until the media returns to its core objectives and values; educating, entertaining, and informing the public.

    Important Concerns:

    1. One-sidedness/ Biases
      Some media outlets, in my opinion, have a lot of biases and favouritism; rather than addressing the issues at hand, we take sides based on our individual interests.
    2. Poor research
      Some media outlets do not do adequate fact-checking or research, which primarily results in clout. Some term go in for content that will generate the attention and mileage but educating the general public on the actual happenings
    3. Competition
      Some media personalities seem to be in a competition with celebrities for attention, numbers, popularity, and perceived superiority; rather than adjusting and rectifying when they make mistakes or fall short, they choose to fight these celebrities.

    The Bigger Picture

    A collaboration between Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy would be incredible. A joint project could attract a larger audience because they both have distinct styles and fan bases. It would create more buzz and generate more revenue and a lot of excitement among their fans. Their combined abilities would also produce a vibrant and unforgettable musical performance. It is always wonderful to see artists collaborate to create something truly unique.

    The Way Forward

    Resolving the controversy between Shatta and Stonebwoy is a collective responsibilities by the media, industry players, and stakeholders.

  • “I have taken £80,000 to perform at Medikal’s concert” – DJ Azonto asserts

    “I have taken £80,000 to perform at Medikal’s concert” – DJ Azonto asserts

    Ghanaian musician and disc jockey Mark Kwesi Arthur, better known by his stage name DJ Azonto, has revealed that he will be taking part in Medikal’s upcoming London show.

    According to the singer of “Fa no fom,” the rapper has already partially compensated him for coming to his upcoming show at London’s O2 Arena.

    DJ Azonto revealed that he has been billed as one of the performers for the show and has already received a staggering amount of £80,000 as part payment for his performance in an exclusive interview with Dr. Prekese on Onua FM’s Efie Ne Fie.

    He continued by saying that the remaining £20,000 will be paid following his performance at the show, as £100,000 was the agreed-upon payment amount.

    “Can Medikal have the show without me? Have you seen any father who eats and does not feed his sons? I have received pounds from Medikal, you will see me live in London. Medikal has paid and billed me.

    “I’m taking £100,000, he has already paid me £80,000 [after performance then I take the £20,000],” he said.

    Medikal’s highly anticipated show at the esteemed O2 Arena is scheduled for May 3. The rapper has been gaining momentum for his concert and drawing attention since March.

  • Attempting to combat corruption as president will result in death – Okyeame Kwame

    Attempting to combat corruption as president will result in death – Okyeame Kwame

    Okyeame Kwame asserts that the solution to Ghana’s issues lies in educating the next generation.

    From his vantage point, meaningful change appears unachievable due to the pervasive corruption in the current political environment.

    The rapper has voiced doubt, claiming that because corruption is so pervasive, any leader who tries to implement significant reforms will suffer dire consequences and may even endanger their life.

    “NDC/NPP cannot help Ghana; family is what can help Ghana. The problem affecting us as a people is a problem of the mind. The corrupt system cannot fix itself; it makes a lot of people rich and happy. If a president wants to come and fight corruption in the country right now, he will be dead in 2 weeks. It’s not about pay; it’s not about money; it’s about morality,” he asserted.

    Ghanaians’ current generation’s mentality, according to Okyeame Kwame, is the primary cause of corruption. He suggested that fostering corruption in young people from an early age would be the most successful course of action.

    “The politician was put in power by you and me; they are a representation of us, so if they are corrupt, it shows that you are corrupt. I agree that politicians are causing problems, but as you fight the politicians, train your child not to think like a politician. My vision is that we train our children to be incorruptible so that they will grow up and do away with this corrupt system. That is the only way I think Ghana would develop. Let us focus on training the young ones now,” he emphasized.

    When questioned about the politicians in charge right now, Okyeame Kwame gave a fatalistic response, implying that they will all eventually die. He emphasised that the best way to create good change in the future is to teach children to be selfless.

  • Disability group criticizes Shatta Wale for mocking Stonebwoy

    Disability group criticizes Shatta Wale for mocking Stonebwoy

    Ghanaian Dancehall musician Shatta Wale has received a warning from the Ghana Society of the Physically Disabled (GSPD) regarding his alleged mockery of people with disabilities during a recent performance.

    This caution is in response to Shatta Wale’s mockery of Stonebwoy during one of his live videos with the fans.

    According to the GSPD, Shatta Wale is not only making fun of his colleague musician, Stonebwoy but also people with disabilities .

    “You are a bad person that is why God made you a disabled person, you are a disabled person don’t try and fight an able person” Shatta Wale said.

    The incident has spurred discussion about the value of inclusivity and respect for every person.

    The GSPD in a press statement issued on April 15 in reaction to the incident, disclosed that making fun of people with disabilities is not only disrespectful but also against their rights. The GSPD demanded awareness-raising and instruction to uphold inclusivity and dignity for every person, irrespective of their capacity.

    Shatta Wale & Stonebwoy

    “The GSPD takes exception to this statement and ask Shatta Wale to retract the statement, remove such video from social media and apologize to all persons with disability and Ghanaian,” the statement said.

    The law considers it unlawful to make fun of people with disabilities. As a result, the GSPD has asked the appropriate authorities to look into the incident and, if needed, take appropriate action. Such acts may have fines and even jail time as legal repercussions.

    “Using a person’s disability to mock him or her or making derogatory remarks about a person’s disability is a punishable offence by law, refer to disability Act 715.”

    “Disability indeed can be anyone’s lot at any given time” they stated.

    Read full statement below;

  • Celebrating the musical journey of Ghanaian legendary GYEDU BLAY AMBOLLEY

    Celebrating the musical journey of Ghanaian legendary GYEDU BLAY AMBOLLEY

    Gyedu-Blay Ambolley is a Ghanaian highlife musician, songwriter, producer, and composer. Simigwa is a musical genre that Ambolley invented. He was the first person in Ghanaian music history to formally incorporate rap forms into traditional highlife rhythms. His distinctive musical style, Simigwa, is a blend of highlife, funk, and jazz, earning him the moniker “Simigwa Do Man.”

    Throughout his career, Gyedu Blay Ambolley has put out multiple albums and has been active in the music industry for a number of decades. The catchy melodies, socially conscious lyrics, and infectious rhythms of his music are well-known. Gyedu Blay Ambolley is a true musical pioneer from Ghana who has had a big influence on the highlife genre.

    The Genre, Simigwa

    Simigwa music is a unique genre created by Gyedu Blay Ambolley. Its vibrant and energising sound is the result of a fusion of jazz, funk, and highlife. The catchy melodies, groovy basslines, and infectious rhythms of simigwa music define it. It creates a unique and enthralling musical experience by fusing Western influences with traditional Ghanaian music elements. Gyedu Blay Ambolley’s inventive songwriting has made Simigwa a popular genre among fans of Ghanaian music.

    One popular song of genre is “Simigwa Soca.” A great example of the fusion of jazz, funk, and highlife elements is this upbeat and groovy track. “Akoko Ba” is another amazing song that will get you moving. It has a catchy melody and catchy rhythms.

    Impact on the Music Industry

    Gyedu Blay has had a significant impacts on the music industry, especially in Ghana. His distinct style and infectious rhythms have influenced many musicians and inspired the development of new genres. The contributions of Gyedu Blay Ambolley have shaped the Ghanaian music scene and brought him recognition on a global scale. He is commended for his musical prowess, inventiveness, and ability to captivate audiences with upbeat performances. His impact on the music industry is nothing short of remarkable.

    Over his career, Gyedu Blay Ambolley has bestowed upon us a plethora of hit songs. “Adwoa,” “Fa No Dem Ara,” “Akoko Ba,” and “Simigwa-Do” are a few of his best-known songs. These songs, which highlight his distinctive fusion of jazz, funk, and highlife, have stood the test of time in the music space.

  • Rising star Mr. Stickz gears up for a new EP “Man Like Stickz”

    Rising star Mr. Stickz gears up for a new EP “Man Like Stickz”

    Mr. Stickz, real name Adesegun Babatunde Adetola, is getting ready to release “Man Like Stickz,” his first studio EP.

    Stickz, is getting ready to release “Man Like Stickz,” his debut studio EP, which will be a big step in his musical career. With five different tracks—”MY LIFE,” “LUCI,” “IFUNANYA,” “MU NA MU BL3,” and “ACCRA”—this EP looks to be an engaging compilation.

    Every song on “Man Like Stickz” exhibits Mr. Stickz’s versatility as a musician and storyteller, reflecting his distinct style and artistic vision. The EP offers a wide range of sounds and emotions, from reflective introspection to catchy rhythms, giving listeners a rich and engrossing musical experience.

    Mr. Stickz

    This EP stands out because every song was written and composed entirely by Mr. Stickz, showcasing his abilities as a composer as well as lyricist. His ability to exercise creative control enables him to deeply connect with his audience by bringing his unique experiences, viewpoints, and passions to every song.

    The EP also features excellent production quality, as all of the tracks were created and mastered by the gifted E’Sharp Beatz. The expert production work of E’Sharp Beatz combined with Mr. Stickz’s skillful songwriting guarantees that “Man Like Stickz” has a polished, polished sound that appeals to listeners of all stripes.

    Man Like StickZ

    Expectations are high among music lovers and fans of Mr. Stickz as he gets ready to release his debut EP. “Man Like Stickz” has an amazing storyline, catchy tunes, and excellent production, all of which will make it impossible to ignore this song and solidify Mr. Stickz’s status as a rising star in the music industry.

    You can follow Mr. Stickz on these social media platforms by tapping on the links below.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/8gD3tSvxs2cccjgZ/?mibextid=WC7FNe

    X (Twitter): https://x.com/eministickz?s=21

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/man.like.stickz?igsh=a2xuamtlZ3czcDhr

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@man_like_stickz?_t=8lT1nTL78yb&_r=1

    Check Previous Projects Here

    https://ffm.bio/jdb9ydv

  • Stonebwoy signs a new deal with Warner Music Group

    Stonebwoy signs a new deal with Warner Music Group

    Stonebwoy, the Afro-dancehall sensation, has signed a worldwide distribution and label services agreement with ADA Worldwide, Warner Music Group’s independent label and artist services division.

    The collaboration with ADA, which is made possible by Stonebwoy’s own Burniton Music Group, also includes Stonebwoy’s sixth studio album, which is due out later this year.

    Stonebwoy said, “This deal marks another step forward in getting my music on the global stage via ADA’s network.” “My goal has always been to bring people together by fusing hip hop, dancehall, reggae, and African music, or afrobeats.

    Since it is been said that creativity thrives in an environment of freedom, I must own my creativity in order to meaningfully contribute to the world of music.

    Stonebwoy signs a new deal with Warner Music Group

    “Stonebwoy is in a league of his own. His genre-blending style has resonated with millions of fans around the globe and he’s helped shine a light on the rich and vibrant sounds coming out of Africa,” said Cat Kreidich, President, of ADA Worldwide.

    “He’s spreading positivity, love and unity with music that makes you move and makes you feel. We can’t wait to support his unique creative vision even further across the international stage.”

    Casey Kobia, Stonebwoy’s Talent Manager, added, “I’m glad on behalf of KVO Talent to have brokered this global partnership between Warner Music’s ADA Worldwide and Stonebwoy’s label Burniton Music Group.

    The energy and excitement from the team at ADA since our first conversation has been just what is required to unlock the next chapter in Stonebwoy’s journey and I am grateful to have him join this family – special thanks to April Pope and Bryan Roberts for making this happen.”

    Originating from Ashaiman, Ghana, Stonebwoy’s music combines dancehall, reggae, and afrobeat elements in a captivating blend.

    The multifaceted star has left his mark; his album Epistles of Mama from 2017 became of the Ghanaian artists to be featured on the Billboard World Albums chart, and his album 5th Dimension from 2023 made its debut in the Top 10 of the Reggae Albums chart on Billboard.

    He became the first Ghanaian artist to reach one million views on YouTube in just 24 hours after the release of his hit song “Blessing.” More recently, he became the first artist from Ghana to reach 100 million streams on Audiomack.

    A highly regarded artist, Stonebwoy appears on the Grammy-nominated album Avrakedabra by Jamaican reggae band Morgan Heritage. He has collaborated with a number of notable artists, including Burna Boy, Stormzy, Keri Hilson, Sean Paul, Trey Songz, and more.

    Throughout his career, Stonebwoy has won multiple accolades, such as Artist of the Year at the Ghana Music Awards and Best International Act at the BET Awards.

    He co-headlined the historic Afrochella Festival (now Afrofuture) in 2022 with Burna Boy, demonstrating his natural ability to perform live. In the past year, he has headlined events in over 15 countries, most recently at the Rolling Cocoa Festival.

    Stonebwoy is an entrepreneur who runs Burniton Music Group, his own entertainment company, as CEO. The agreement represents ADA’s continued expansion in the African music industry, following successful collaborations with notable labels such as Nigeria’s most significant independent record label, Chocolate City, and Africori, the continent’s top digital music distributor.”

  • Renowned fashion designer Roberto Cavalli dies at aged 83

    Renowned fashion designer Roberto Cavalli dies at aged 83

    Roberto Cavalli, an Italian fashion designer renowned for his animal-print creations coveted by celebrities, passed away at the age of 83, according to reports.

    Cavalli had been unwell for a while when he established his label in the early 1970s. His partner Sandra Bergman Nilsson and his six children survive him.

    Chief Executive Sergio Azzolari of Roberto Cavalli wrote on Instagram, “The Roberto Cavalli company shares condolences with Mr. Cavalli’s family, his legacy remains a constant source of inspiration.”

    According to Italian news agency ANSA, the designer passed away at his Florence home on Friday.
    Cavalli was an extroverted art enthusiast who smoked a cigar and wore tinted glasses. He employed vibrant colours and patchwork effects in his frequently revealing creations.

    He became involved in real estate and frequently spent his evenings in popular nightclub in the heart of Milan called “Just Cavalli Cafe.”
    Despite having a very different take on fashion than Cavalli, Giorgio Armani claimed to have always had “enormous respect” for the designer.

    He wrote on social media platform X, “Roberto was a true artist, wild and wonderful in his use of prints, capable of transforming fantasy into seductive clothes.”

    Famous photo of American model Cindy Crawford from July 2000, wearing a long slip dress with a tiger face designed by Cavalli, as she descends the Spanish Steps in Rome.

    Creative director at Roberto Cavalli Fausto Puglisi said, “You will be missed and you are loved by so many that your name will continue on, a beacon of inspiration for others, and especially for me.”

    The Dubai-based Hussain Sajwani, who saved the Florence-based fashion group in 2019, owns Auriel Investment SA, the company’s parent company.
    Monday is Cavalli’s funeral, according to Italian media.

  • “May we not die in pursuit of our daily bread” – Jackie Appiah

    “May we not die in pursuit of our daily bread” – Jackie Appiah

    Ghanaian-born actress Jackie Appiah, a multiple award winner, expressed her condolences for the late Nollywood actor Junior Pope, whose untimely passing on April 10, 2024, shocked the entertainment industry.

    In addition to expressing sorrow over Pope’s passing, Appiah urged followers not to compromise their well-being in the name of success and stressed the value of leading a balanced life above and beyond survival.

    Jackie offered her condolences to Pope’s family and the crew in her heartfelt eulogy, acknowledging the transience of life.

    See her tribute below;

  • Bobrisky sentenced to six months in jail with no option of fine

    Bobrisky sentenced to six months in jail with no option of fine

    Nigerian popular transvestite Bobrisky, born Idris Okuneye has beensentenced to six months in prison without the possibility of fines.

    The ruling was rendered on Friday morning by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court located in Lagos.

    Following Bobrisky’s guilty plea to a four-count charge of Naira abuse brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the judge dropped the hammer.

    Bobrisky got into trouble last month when he sprayed money during the premiere of Ajakaju, the highly anticipated movie starring actress and producer Eniola Ajao, at Film One Circle Mall in the upscale Lekki neighbourhood of Lagos.

    The event’s videos were extensively shared on social media, which increased pressure on the government to act.

    However, a Nigerian celebrity has previously been imprisoned for misusing Naira.

    Actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin received a six-month prison sentence in February for stepping on and spray-painting new naira notes.