Category: News

  • Stonebwoy Urges Charter House to Reveal 2019 Artiste of the Year

    Stonebwoy Urges Charter House to Reveal 2019 Artiste of the Year

    Recently crowned as the TGMA “Artist of the Year,” Stonebwoy maintains that he rightfully earned the VGMA Artist of the Year award in 2019, despite being disqualified by the VGMA board and Charterhouse due to an on-stage altercation involving a firearm.

    During his acceptance speech at the 25th Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), where he secured his third Artist of the Year title, Stonebwoy urged Charterhouse to publicly announce the 2019 winner, asserting his belief that he deserved the accolade.

    In addition to his Artist of the Year win at the TGMA, the “Into the Future” hitmaker won awards in the Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year, Album/EP of the Year, and Record of the Year categories.

    The controversy at the 20th VGMAs involved a near-physical altercation between Stonebwoy and Shatta Wale, who stormed the stage while Stonebwoy was accepting his Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year award. The incident, which marred the event’s 20th anniversary celebrations, led to both artists being apprehended by the police and subsequently banned by the VGMA board.

    In the aftermath, the board decided not to award the overall Artist of the Year to any of the nominees that year.

  • TGMA24: Legendary Amakye Dede Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award

    TGMA24: Legendary Amakye Dede Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award

    Legendary Ghanaian Highlife musician Amakye Dede received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 25th Telecel Ghana Music Awards, held on June 1, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre.

    Amakye Dede’s more than half-century in the Ghanaian music scene stands as a testament to his enduring influence. He began his musical career as a composer and vocalist with the Kumapim Royals, a renowned Highlife band led by Ghanaian Highlife legend Akwasi Ampofo Agyei (AAA).

    Later, Amakye Dede formed his own band, Apollo High Kings, known for releasing numerous Highlife hits in the 1980s and 1990s. With a discography of twenty albums and a vast song catalogue, his significant impact has shaped not only the Highlife scene but also inspired generations of musicians and music enthusiasts.

    Affectionately called “Iron Boy” by Ghanaians, Amakye Dede has explored various genres such as Soca, Calypso, and Lovers Rock, seamlessly integrating them into Highlife. His well-known songs include “Iron Boy,” “Su fre wo Nyame,” “Asem to me a ka bi ma me,” “Dabidabi Ebeye Yie,” “Mmaa Pe sokoo,” and “Bebrebe Yi.”

    In recognition of Amakye Dede’s unparalleled talent and unwavering dedication to his craft, the 25th Telecel Ghana Music Awards honored the music legend with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

  • TGMA24: Stonebwoy Wins ‘Artiste of the Year’ and Five Other Awards

    TGMA24: Stonebwoy Wins ‘Artiste of the Year’ and Five Other Awards

    Celebrated Ghanaian reggae/dancehall singer and songwriter Livingston Etse Satekla, better known by his stage name Stonebwoy, took home the coveted Artiste of the Year award at the 25th Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

    The celebration of Ghanaian music’s finest artists brought together both established artists and rising stars, that took place at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre in Accra.

    This makes it his second win of the award after he first picked it in 2015. Along with Sarkodie, Black Sherif, Kuami Eugene, King Promise, and Nacee, the ‘Into the Future’ singer competed for the most coveted award for the year in question.

    Stonebwoy’s win is a major turning point in his career and demonstrates his impact on the music industry.

    The Afro-dancehall performer has won five additional accolades, including International Collaboration of the Year, Song Writer of the Year, Collaboration of the Year, and Record of the Year, as well as the ninth-ever Reggae Dancehall Artiste of the Year award.

    With his distinctive fusion of dancehall, Afrobeats, and reggae, Stonebwoy has been a major player in the industry for more than ten years.

    His success is a tribute to his steady stream of hits, creative sound, and captivating live performances that have won over audiences both domestically and abroad.

    The artist stunned the audience with a stunning performance at the award ceremony, solidifying his status as one of Ghana’s best performers.

  • LIVESTREAM: 25TH Telecel Ghana Music Awards ongoing at AICC

    LIVESTREAM: 25TH Telecel Ghana Music Awards ongoing at AICC

    The 25th Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) takes place today at the Accra International Conference Centre’s grand arena, celebrating talents and creativity.

    Enjoy the live streaming of the ongoing TGMA 2024.

  • Bullet Confirms Issues with Wendy Shay

    Bullet Confirms Issues with Wendy Shay

    Renowned talent manager and music producer Bullet has confirmed that Wendy Shay is no longer under his management and has openly discussed the ongoing issues between them.

    In an interview on Accra FM, Bullet stated that there are unresolved issues between himself, his Rufftown Records label, and Wendy Shay. Despite attempts to reconcile, they have not reached an understanding.

    Bullet, known for avoiding unnecessary hype, emphasized that their disagreement is not a publicity stunt but a genuine conflict. He acknowledged that disagreements are common but assured that efforts are being made to resolve their differences.

    Bullet and former artiste, Wendy Shay

    While Bullet did not disclose the cause of their dispute, he mentioned that Wendy Shay’s mother has returned from America to help mediate, considering it a minor issue likely to be resolved.

    Despite the rift, Bullet remains open to Wendy Shay, even though she is no longer under his professional mentorship.

    Bullet continues to advance his label, which currently features two artists: Baba Tunde and Kiki Marley.

  • Piesie Esther Embarks on Pilgrimage to Israel; Visits Jesus’ Tomb and River Jordan (Video)

    Piesie Esther Embarks on Pilgrimage to Israel; Visits Jesus’ Tomb and River Jordan (Video)

    Gospel musician Piesie Esther has traveled to Israel, visiting several significant biblical sites.

    Her journey began in Canaan, where Jesus performed his first miracle of turning water into wine.

    One of the highlights was visiting the tomb where Jesus was interred. After seeing the empty tomb, Piesie Esther expressed her joy and spiritual fulfillment, reaffirming her belief in Christ’s resurrection.

    She continued her pilgrimage to the River Jordan, the site where Jesus was baptized and received the Holy Spirit. Piesie immersed herself in the river, reflecting on this biblical event.

    In Jerusalem, she visited the Wailing Wall, praying for her fans as she walked through the sacred streets. “With this confidence, I declare every request, supplication, petition, and heart prayer you have made be answered in Jesus’ name! Cry no more, your prayer is heard,” she said.

    Piesie Esther also visited the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed the night before his betrayal, describing it as an incredible and profoundly touching experience. “Experiencing the Garden of Gethsemane is a profound encounter with faith, reflecting on Jesus’ agony and resolve on the eve of His crucifixion. It is a place of deep prayer, reflection, and connection to the heart of His sacrifice,” she stated.

    Additionally, she went to the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus first saw Peter following his resurrection and ate fish with him. She documented her entire experience for her fans, for whom she prayed.

    Upon returning from her pilgrimage, Piesie Esther declared that the “incredible and inspiring journey” had strengthened her bond with Jesus Christ and deepened her faith.

  • Ama Governor finally called to the BAR (VIDEO)

    Ama Governor finally called to the BAR (VIDEO)

    Social media influencer Elorm Ababio, better known online as Ama Governor, has at last received a call to the Ghana Bar following a tumultuous journey.

    Miss Ababio was sworn in as a new lawyer today, May 31, 2024, along with 181 other people at the ongoing ceremony.

    Having successfully navigated the controversies surrounding her call to the bar in 2022 and 2023, this is a major turning point in Ama’s career.

    Ama’s call to the BAR was first made public last week when the General Legal Council listed her as one of the new Ghana Law School students to be called to the BAR in an official notice.

    “The list of persons qualified to be called to the bar per a notice issued under the hand of the Director of the Ghana School of Law is not exhaustive and may change upon the General Legal Council’s attention being drawn to certain irregularities,” the official notice said.

    Ama Governor’s path to the bar has been characterised by intense controversy and public attention. Her candour and willingness to share her sexual orientation have made her a divisive figure in Ghanaian society. Her perseverance and resolve have ultimately brought her to this important career achievement, despite the obstacles.

    Social media is buzzing with excitement over her enrollment, with some applauding her tenacity and others continuing to voice their opposition. Nevertheless, Ama Governor’s inclusion on the list of eligible candidates demonstrates her dedication to the legal field.

    On May 31, 2024, the call to the bar ceremony is set to take place. For the 182 people who have dedicated their lives to earning this honour, it will be a momentous occasion. At the Ghana School of Law, the occasion will symbolise the completion of years of demanding coursework and training.

    Ama Governor’s journey serves as an inspiration to many who encounter discrimination and obstacles as she gets ready to enter the legal fraternity. Her narrative emphasises the value of resiliency and pursuing one’s objectives in spite of social obstacles.

  • FOCAP executives meet with Japanese embassy to discuss the growth of the creative economy

    FOCAP executives meet with Japanese embassy to discuss the growth of the creative economy

    The leadership of The Foundation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP) met with representatives of the Japanese Embassy on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, to talk about the Creative Economy. According to the FOCAP Executives, this meeting is a part of their 2024 Strategic Partnership Drive, which aims to find opportunities for the creative industry.

    FOCAP in a conversation with TERAGAKI Yuriya – First Secretary Information & Culture General, Protocol & Political Affairs for the Embassy of Japan in Ghana and to Liberia / Sierra Leone talk extensively about the Creative Economy and partnership between the two countries.

    The agenda items for this strategy meeting included advocacy, training, support, cultural exchanges, and sponsorship of professionals in the creative arts. The partnership between the two nations will be based on these essential tenets.

    The Japanese Cultural Expo, the Speech Contest, and Japanese Calligraphy Exhibitions are just a few of the events the Japan Embassy has hosted over the years to promote Japanese culture.

    FOCAP, the leading advocacy group for the creative industry and a catalyst for the creative economy, is working to build the partnerships and alliances required to uphold its reputation as the leading force in the industry.

    FOCAP intends to introduce a number of exchange and training programmes for the creative industry during the coming months.

    Mr. Mel Kwesi Davis, Vice President of Administration, Mr. Enock Agyepong, and Mr. Kojo Preko Dankwa, President, represented FOCAP.

  • Electrochem, Africa’s largest salt refinery, commences operations in August 2024

    Electrochem, Africa’s largest salt refinery, commences operations in August 2024

    Electrochem Ghana Limited is set to start processing refined salt in commercial quantities by August of this year, according to a statement made by Dr. Daniel McKorley, the Executive Board Chairman of McDan Group.

    During a visit to the Ada project site in the Greater Accra region, Dr. McKorley disclosed this information to members of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI).

    Dr. McKorley emphasised in his welcome address the company’s dedication to involving off-takers both locally and globally.

    He announced that the McDan Group subsidiary Electrochem, the largest salt refinery in Africa, would manufacture natural salt for export.

    “We are building one of the biggest refineries in Africa. By August, it should be up and running. This is a product (salt) with high demand. Once we complete the ports and the refinery, we’ll produce for the industry”.

    According to him, the refinery’s success will be ensured by the need for salt in manufacturing and industry.   

    “Salt has 14,000 uses, and we plan to produce for both export and local consumption. What we have here is unparalleled—99.9% sodium chloride, intended for serious industrial use. It’s environmentally friendly, and we are not retailing but selling to wholesalers because this is a big factory,” Dr. McKorley said.

    Tsonam Akpeloo, the AGI’s Regional Chairman for Greater Accra, stressed the value of encouraging and supporting major Ghanaian-owned companies like Electrochem Ghana Limited.

    “This is clearly a huge innovation not just in Ghana but across Africa. The only way we can take advantage of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area is by supporting large industries like Electrochem Ghana.”

    Electrochem Ghana has the capacity to produce an impressive 1 million metric tonnes of salt annually for both domestic and international markets, thanks to its 41,000-acre concession at Ada Songor.

  • Ghanaians Celebrate as Afronita and Abigail Advance to Britain’s Got Talent Finals

    Ghanaians Celebrate as Afronita and Abigail Advance to Britain’s Got Talent Finals

    Following an incredible performance in the semifinals, Ghanaian dancers Afronitaa and Abigail have advanced to the finals of the 17th season of Britain’s Got Talent.

    A standing ovation was given to the two Ghanaian dancers in recognition of their outstanding performance.

    They received great appreciation for their choreography, which enthralled the judges and the audience.

    The duo made an impression with their performance, showcasing their distinct talents and inventiveness. They performed their routine with perfect precision, demonstrating their energy and skill.

    The audience’s fervent applause highlighted the impact of Afronita and Abigail’s performance, which left them thoroughly entertained.

    As the competition goes on, Afronita and Abigail’s outstanding performance will be held in high regard by the other competitors. Their performance in the championship shows that they have what it takes to win the big game.

    Expecting them to keep shining, supporters and fans look forward to their next performance.

    They were given a standing ovation for their outstanding audition performance approximately a month ago. The video quickly went viral, inspiring pride and excitement among Ghanaians.

    Twenty-year-old Afronita, a committed dancer, opened her dance academy recently to teach aspiring young dancers. Seven-year-old deaf dancer Abigail Dromo, her protege, won Talented Kid’s season 14 due to her extraordinary talent.

    Their teamwork paid off on Britain’s Got Talent, as they received four enthusiastic yeses from the judges. Simon Cowell called them his favourite auditions of the year.

    The dynamic Azonto dance style was showcased by the duo as they enthralled the audience with their electrifying renditions of Fuse ODG’s “Antenna” and “Dangerous Love,” which featured Sean Paul.

    Their performance cemented their status as rising stars in the dance industry by showcasing not only their extraordinary talent but also the lasting influence of Ghanaian culture on a global scale.