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Category: News

  • Asamoah Gyan was forced to drop Black Stars captaincy to Dede Ayew – Laryea Kingston

    Asamoah Gyan was forced to drop Black Stars captaincy to Dede Ayew – Laryea Kingston

    Laryea Kingston, a former Ghana international player, asserted that Asamoah Gyan is still upset about how Andre Ayew won the Black Stars captaincy over him.

    He claimed that Ayew “got the captaincy by force,” which is why Gyan was upset about the way things turned out.

    After almost five years as captain of Ghana, Gyan had his armband removed a few weeks prior to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    The veteran striker was named general captain by national team coach James Kwesi Appiah, who also selected Ayew as his new captain.

    Gyan announced his retirement from the national team after being unimpressed with the decision, but he later changed his mind following President Akufo-Addo’s intervention.

    Gyan’s loss of the Black Stars captaincy serves as one example of how Laryea feels the national team’s management treats legends poorly.

    “Look at someone like Asamoah Gyan, Dede Ayew got the captaincy by force so if you are speaking to Asamoah now he is not happy,” he told Graphic Sport.

    “I never supported the Black Stars because of what they did to me for so many years, but recently I sat down and said, ‘Let me focus.’”

    However, Kwesi Appiah, the former coach of Ghana, thinks that removing Gyan from the Black Stars captaincy was the right move.

    Speaking on Prime Take on Joy News in 2023, Kwesi Appiah said he has a lot of respect for Gyan and made sure he informed the striker of the decision in a respectful manner.

    “I respect him a lot. That’s the reason why I called him to let him know the decision I was going to take and make him the general captain,” he said.

  • Football to introduce blue cards for sin-bins trials

    Football to introduce blue cards for sin-bins trials

    As part of the trials for sin-bins, a new blue card is scheduled to be implemented in professional football.

    Although yellow and red cards have been used in football since the 1970 World Cup, there have been rumours recently that a new card may be added to the game.

    The International Football Association Board has approved the introduction of a blue card as part of a trial for sin-bins, according to The Telegraph.

    Under the new protocol, players who commit cynical fouls or show disapproval towards an official will be taken off the pitch for ten minutes.

    Only fouls committed during a potentially strong attack and dissent will be eligible for the new card.

    A player may be shown a red card if they are dealt two blue cards or a combination of yellow and blue cards.

    The new protocol is expected to be unveiled on Friday, according to reports.

    According to a Telegraph report, elite trials may start as early as the summer, but top-tier competitions will not be included in the professional game’s initial testing if the protocols need to be improved.

    “That could involve the FA Cup and Women’s FA Cup, as the Football Association is thinking of offering to test the competitions for the upcoming season.”

    “It is not football anymore,” UEFA President Aleksandr Ceferin stated in an interview with the Telegraph, expressing his opposition to sin-bins. In the UEFA competition, we will not use them.

    “Ifab has four European members. I don’t think they will do something against the interests of football. And, if they do, then we will deal with it later.”

    Ceferin added: “I would leave football as it is.

    “I think we don’t need a change of rules. We don’t need to be remembered as important persons that changed football. We don’t need to change football. We are passing through.”

  • Six years on: Remembering the ’90s Bad Gyal’, Ebony Reigns (Photos)

    Six years on: Remembering the ’90s Bad Gyal’, Ebony Reigns (Photos)

    It has been six years since the sudden death of Ghanaian dancehall and Afrobeats artist, Ebony Reigns. She was a vibrant and extremely talented woman.

    The music industry and fans alike pause on the anniversary of her death to consider the influence she had on the Ghanaian music landscape.

    Priscilla Opoku-Kwarteng, better known as Ebony, mesmerised audiences with her seductive voice and fearless approach to her craft. “Poison,” her breakthrough hit, made her a formidable force very quickly. She was discovered by Bullet from Ruff n Smooth.

    She tragically lost her promising career on February 8, 2018, in a fatal car accident while returning to Accra from Sunyani, where she had visited her mother, along with her assistant and longtime friend, Franklina Yaa Nkansah Kuri soldier Atsu Vondee.

    Following the most remarkable breakthrough year in Ghanaian music history, the electrifying dancehall songstress went on to win the 2018 VGMA Artist of the Year award posthumously.

    Honouring the “90s Bad Gyal” is a way to acknowledge her revolutionary contributions to the industry as well as her musical talent. Through her music, she boldly questioned social norms, addressed social issues, and empowered young women.

    Although the “Sponsor” hitmaker’s death has left a huge hole, her legacy endures thanks to the enduring influence she had on Ghanaian music. Her impact is still being celebrated by her family, admirers, and fellow artists, guaranteeing that the spirit of the “90s Bad Gyal” lives on in the hearts of those who cherished her artistry and her timeless melodies.

  • Think about your artists’ well-being – George Britton to talent managers

    Think about your artists’ well-being – George Britton to talent managers

    Prominent Ghanaian music industry figure George Britton recently underlined how important it is for talent managers to put their artists’ health and wellbeing first.

    George, who also serves as an artiste manager, stated that his top priority has always been his artist’s health in an interview with Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z.

    The demanding nature of the entertainment industry, with its strict schedules, continual scrutiny, and pressure to perform, can have a negative impact on artists’ mental and physical health, according to the manager of Ghanaian singer Camidoh. However, talent managers have obligations that go beyond contract negotiations and business dealings because they are the protectors of their artists’ careers.

    “No matter what circumstances you find yourself in, it is your responsibility as a manager to look out for the artist. It is your responsibility as a manager to ensure that every aspect of the product you are selling is in top condition, from performance to health to everything else.

    Thus, I have to be mindful of the food we consume. I do not need to explain because Camidoh was already drinking water when I met him, so I just need to keep giving him water. The level keeps growing. Yesterday, we performed at Anyinam, today we are performing at New York. Thus, how do we grow and why is it necessary? We must be in good physical, mental, and spiritual health,” he stated.

    George, who also disclosed that his artist Camidoh had experienced depression, talked about how committed he was to ensuring that he received professional care. He said that, in general, talent managers have not done a good job of looking out for the health of their clients when speaking on the topic of “Creative and their Health.”

    “I think we (talent managers) are not doing a good job, listening to what Okyeame Kwame and the doctors have said,” he stated.

  • KK Fosu declares support for Cheddar’s The New Force

    KK Fosu declares support for Cheddar’s The New Force

    Ghanaian highlife legendary Kaakyire Kwame Fosu, better known by his stage name KK Fosu, has declared his support for Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar, and his initiative called “The New Force.”

    “I belong to the New Force Movement. “I want to express this clearly while revealing my face,” KK Fosu declared.

    This statement follows the release of a new song by KK Fosu called “Back to Sender,” which takes aim at Cheddar’s critics after a run-in with the authorities over the cancellation of his rally at Black Stars Square.

    “Sudwe” crooner stated, “Members of the New Force Movement are freedom fighters whereas those in the traditional political parties are driven by personal interests rather than the welfare of the nation,” in explaining the distinction between the NFP and NDC and the New Force Movement.

    He’s out with a new single titled “Back To Sender”.

    KK Fosu clarified, “I am sending fire to any negativity against him, us, or anybody who is our enemy,” in response to a question about what inspired his song.

  • I want to win AFCON and the World Cup for Ghana – Kurt Okraku

    I want to win AFCON and the World Cup for Ghana – Kurt Okraku

    The Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Okraku, has revealed that his administration wants to bring home trophies for the nation.

    He expressed his hope that Ghana will be able to win both the World Cup and the African Cup of Nations before he steps down from office.

    Speaking to the media earlier yesterday in Kumasi, Mr. Okraku discussed the Black Stars’ dismal showing in the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) competition.

    The senior national team, which had hoped to win their fifth continental championship, was eliminated in the group stage again after placing third with two points.

    Mr. Okraku declared that, in spite of the criticism, he is determined to see to it that the Black Stars, under his direction as the GFA president, win the Mundial and the AFCON.
    “I want to win the AFCON I want to win the World Cup I want to win every competition Ghana finds itself,” he said.

    “This is the collective belief and mindset of my fellow Executive Council members.

    “My goal is to establish the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence as a world-class institution and to position it extremely well,” he continued.

    Under Mr. Okraku’s leadership, the Black Stars have finished the last two AFCON tournaments in the group stage after losing all two of their games in Cameroon and Ivory Coast.

  • Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo appointed Chairman of 5th GMA-USA Awards Board

    Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo appointed Chairman of 5th GMA-USA Awards Board

    Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo, a well-known media figure in Ghana, has been named Chairman of the newly formed Board by the Executive Board of the Ghana Music Awards – USA, with pride.

    Mr. Asamoah-Baidoo joins his new position with a wealth of experience in communications and public relations.

    His noteworthy contributions to the creative sector, working with different artists, brands, and events, are in perfect harmony with the goals of the Ghana Music Awards – USA.

    In his capacity as chairman, Mr. Asamoah-Baidoo will guide an elite group of people in charge of classifying and proposing candidates for the awards programme.

    Renowned music producers Kwame Micky and David Kyei (Kaywa), media personalities Halifax Ansah-Addo and Frank Kwabena Owusu (Franky 5) and event planner Mrs. Whitney Boakye Mensah are among the prominent individuals on the board.

    Completing the Board are Mike Tamakloe, Emmanuel Kusi Mensah, Nathan Pryce, Joshua Tigo, and Dennis K. Boafo, with Ms. Jemima Hagan serving as the Secretary to the Board.

    The Executive Board declares its complete faith in Mr. Asamoah-Baidoo’s ability to lead the Awards Board in an efficient manner, guaranteeing the Ghana Music Awards – USA’s ongoing prosperity and expansion.

    On April 20, 2024, in New Jersey, the official nominees for the 5th edition of GMA-USA will be announced. This will be a historic day in honouring and commemorating excellence in the Ghanaian music industry.

    Please email gmausa20@gmail.com or call +233 54 240 6800 to reach Head of Communications Nana Poku Ashis with any questions you may have about the media.

    Newly Appointed Board Members:

    Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo (Board Chairman)
    Mike Tamakloe (CEO of MustBeFiveRadio USA)
    Joshua Tigo (Programs Director Adom FM Ghana)
    David Kyei (Kaywa- Renowned Music Producer)
    Frank Kwabena Owusu (Franky5 – Astute Media Personality and Broadcaster Ghana)
    Whitney Boakye Mensah (Media Personality Ghana)
    Nathan Pryce (Musician and Media Personality USA)
    Kwame Micky (Renowned Sound Producer USA)
    Halifax Ansah-Addo (Astute Broadcaster and Media Personality)
    Emmanuel Mensah (Capito – Chief Operations Officer GMA-USA)
    Dennis Boafo (Don D- CEO Ghana Music Awards USA)
    Jemima Hagan (Board Secretary)

  • Sister Derby holds religious influence responsible for Ghana’s LGBTQ discrimination

    Sister Derby holds religious influence responsible for Ghana’s LGBTQ discrimination

    In a recent interview, activist and musician Sister Derby from Ghana discussed how she believes religion plays a role in the prejudice that LGBTQ people face in her country.

    She voiced concern in an interview with YFM that a lot of people have a tendency to follow religious doctrines without thinking for themselves, which results in a lack of acceptance and understanding of different points of view.

    In order to promote a more inclusive society, Sister Derby emphasised the value of education outside of the classroom, advising people to learn via firsthand experience and discussions with an open mind.

    Sister Derby drew comparisons between the LGBTQ community in Ghana and other oppressed groups, including victims of domestic abuse, people with albinism, and people who face racial discrimination, by drawing parallels to past struggles.

    She emphasised the necessity of group efforts in questioning social norms and promoted empathy, inspiring people to acknowledge and value the diversity inherent in the human experience.

  • Sam George exposes the NSA, reveals Stonebwoy paid GH₵169,000 instead of GH₵ 70,000

    Sam George exposes the NSA, reveals Stonebwoy paid GH₵169,000 instead of GH₵ 70,000

    Ningo Prampram Member of Parliament Sam George claims that dancehall superstar Stonebwoy paid GH₵ 169,000 to reserve the Accra Sports Stadium for his Bhim Concert in December of last year.

    He asserts that the amount is less than the GH₵70,000 that the National Sports Authority (NSA) asserts the musician paid.

    During Peter Twumasi’s Public Accounts Committee appearance, Sam George questioned Twumasi, the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), about the GH₵ 70,000. Twumasi responded.

    Sam George was shown new information, though, which suggests Stonebwoy might have paid more than initially disclosed.

    After carefully examining Twumasi’s testimony before the Public Accounts Committee on February 5, 2024, the MP from Ningo-Prampram claimed to have learned of the discrepant figures.

    He added that Stonebwoy had not really paid the GH₵ 70,000 that had been made public, according to a source.

    Based on the records he possessed, Sam George asserted that Stonebwoy paid GH₵ 169,000 for the venue.

  • Chelsea, Newcastle United pay tribute to ex-Ghana star Christian Atsu (Photos+Videos)

    Chelsea, Newcastle United pay tribute to ex-Ghana star Christian Atsu (Photos+Videos)

    It has been a year since the terrible demise of Ghanaian football player Christian Atsu, who perished in the terrible earthquake that struck Turkey on February 6, 2023.

    Atsu was one of the thousands of people killed in the devastating earthquake, a tragedy that left many shocked and heartbroken.

    After Atsu was first reported missing, a comprehensive search was conducted. Regretfully, his corpse was eventually found under a heap of rubble.

    Following his passing, many football stars paid their respects, causing the football community to descend into mourning.

    His outstanding play on the pitch, which included significant goals for both his club and his country, earned him a reputation.

    However, it was off the playing field where his generosity and kind heart demonstrated his exceptional character.

    Atsu improved the community by leveraging his social status to his advantage through charitable endeavours.

    The teams that honoured him and paid tribute on social media were Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Ghana Black Stars.

    Together with honouring Atsu’s life and achievements, they included images of him playing.

    Atsu’s legacy serves as a constant reminder to all of us to treat people with kindness, compassion, and dedication.