Entertainment
Musicians pay glowing tributes to fallen music gem, KODA
KODA
Tomorrow will be exactly a week when Ghana’s gospel music industry was hit hard with the news of the demise of Kofi Owusu Dua- Anto, affectionately known as ‘KODA’ after a bout with sickness.
The gospel singer, songwriter, music producer, 46, left behind a wife, Ewurama Dua-Anto and three children.
What broke out on social media in the late hours of Sunday was initially considered a gimmick.
But thoughts of the news remaining a social media trick vanished into thin air when the family of the fallen music gem confirmed his demise in a statement issued on Tuesday.
“The Dua-Anto family, Ewurama Dua-Anto with the Osae and Dankwa families, and allied families solemnly announce the sudden passing of their son, brother, nephew and husband, Kofi Owusu Dua-Anto (KODA) on Sunday, April 21, 2024 following a brief illness.”
According to them, the sudden departure of KODA has left the family sorrowful and devastated; and we deeply appreciate the outpouring of love and support from contemporaries, friends, fans, and loved ones.”
“As we grapple with the shock and grief of this loss, we humbly request privacy during this profoundly challenging time to heal and mourn as a family.
Since then, colleagues in the industry and fans have shared sentiments with The Spectator in glowing tributes to the ‘Nkwa abodoo’ hit maker whose dexterity on the keyboard and lead guitar always thrilled fans.
‘Aseda’ hitmaker, Nacee shared with this paper an unexpected experience with KODA that would last in his memory.
“My cherished memory of KODA happened during the unexpected, unscripted moment when he invited me to join him on stage for the performance of ‘Nkwa Abodoo’ hit.
He disclosed that “despite the spontaneity, God turned the song into a remarkable hit.”
Nacee added “Rest in peace, Koda. Your music carried the torch of faith, bravely touching on difficult truths. Your mission echoes in the heavens, a testament to your unwavering spirit. We’ll meet again someday, brother. Heaven just gained a beautiful soul.”
Empress Gifty, a gospel music diva, told The Spectator it was a sad loss to the industry because KODA was not only a great musician who impacted lives through his ministry.
“KODA was also an astute producer who affected his colleagues positively. I pray to God to protect and strengthen KODA’s family in these trying moments.
ACP Kofi Sarpong described KODA as a gentleman, accommodating and open to all.
According to him, they agreed to collaborate on a song, but unfortunately, that dream would not be a reality anymore.
“I cried on the phone during a call for confirmation from Nacee. He said the death of KODA has affected his mood. It is our prayer that the late musician’s soul would rest in peace.
Nana Yaw Boakye, better known as MOG Music, also shared fond memories of his first meeting with KODA who prayed for him at the National Theatre when he commenced his music journey.
“I still remember the prayer; he said God will lead me to greater heights and connect me to the industry. This prayer keeps playing in my mind since the news of his demise struck all of us.”
MOG Music revealed that there were times KODA heard his song and called to suggest other ways the production could have been done, adding that he impacted the industry positively with his knowledge.
Joe Mettle described KODA as a brother and friend and hinted that they were in Minister Danny Nettey’s band together.
The gospel musician recounted how Danny Nettey asked him to send his first song to KODA, even though it was not released, adding that KODA produced his first ever single ‘I Love You Lord’ between 2007 and 2008 in his studio in Takoradi.
The award-winning gospel musician said he related very well with KODA and shared ideas, saying the late musician was a blessing to him.
“KODA was a wise man who had humorous ways of passing on important messages. We could talk the whole day about KODA, he was a good man,” Joe Mettle concluded.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
The DebbyQueen Talk Show returns with Powerful New Seasons from today
The highly anticipated DebbyQueen Talkshow is set to premiere Season 5 this month on Lifestyle TV, promising viewers an even deeper dive into the inspiring, emotional, and transformative stories that have made the show a must-watch across Africa.
For global viewers, episodes will be available on the DebbyQueen TV YouTube Premium, Instagram, and Facebook, featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
Hosted by the charismatic and insightful Mrs. Deborah Borketey-Tackie (DebbyQueen), the talkshow has built a reputation for its raw, unfiltered conversations with some of Africa’s most influential personalities. From entrepreneurs and activists to artists and change-makers, each episode delivers powerful life lessons, vulnerability, and motivation.
This season’s release marks a bold step forward for the show, featuring enhanced storytelling, new segments, and even more gripping interviews. Mrs. Borketey-Tackie has curated a lineup of guests whose journeys, filled with struggle, resilience, and triumph, will leave audiences inspired and empowered.
From Pascal Amanfo (award-winning film director) to Whitney Boakey-Mensah (women’s health advocate), Mrs. Mary Amoah (an autistic mother’s journey), Atinganma Talata (an Endometriosis survivor), each guest will share untold stories of setbacks and comebacks.
Focus on Youth & Entrepreneurship, with Africa’s next generation in mind, the show will feature young innovators, startup founders, and thought leaders sharing practical advice on business, leadership, and overcoming adversity.
This season’s production is proudly supported by an impressive roster of leading brands, reflecting the show’s growing influence and commercial appeal.
La-Palm Royal Beach Hotel, the venue sponsor, takes center stage as the headline sponsor.
Other major sponsors include HM Life Mixture reinforcing its commitment to health and wellness, Wilmar Africa producers of Frytol cooking oil, JAMAA Detergent, and Fortune Spread showing support towards entrepreneurship and youth empowerment.
Bel-Aqua Mineral Water and Bel Beverages serve as the official hydration partners, ensuring premium refreshments for guests and crew. Ghandour Cosmetics enhances the glamour with professional beauty services.
Additional supporting partners include our fabric sponsors: Mabelina Fabrics, Trinity Kente, Lana Fabrics, Fabric Lot Gh. Ahlai Maadai Enterprise and Hair sponsors: Hair Logistics Gh, Look Afriq, and Hairytales.
The culinary experience is elevated by EzyGrab Gh. and Randa Cakes & More as the official food sponsors for the crew and guests.
Additional support comes from Soul Impact Family Production, the lighting and stage partner, Akenteng Furniture, providing sofas for the set, and Sweet Aroma Print, in charge of all branding and print materials.
Thanks to the backing of these premium sponsors, the show has undergone significant upgrades in production.
The set design at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel exudes sophistication, featuring multi-camera cinematic techniques that rival international talkshows. The inclusion of professional makeup stations by Vendajules Slay World, Glorigels World, KL Makeover and Amy’s Ethicon ensures host and guests look their best.
The DebbyQueen Talkshow has become more than just a TV program, it’s a cultural movement. By blending authentic African storytelling with universal themes of resilience, the show has captured audiences beyond Ghana, including viewers in Sierra Leone, Liberia, South Africa, Canada, and the diaspora.
Media analysts praise its unique approach where vulnerability meets empowerment and its ability to spark meaningful conversations about success, mental health, and personal growth.
“This season is about truth, transformation, and triumph,” says Mrs. Deborah Borketey-Tackie.
“We are not just sharing stories, we are changing mindsets. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a dreamer, or someone looking for hope, these episodes will speak to you,” she concluded
Entertainment
Nana Jesse releases prayer song from Upper Room Experience concert
Kumasi-based gospel singer Nana Jesse, known in showbiz circles as Sylvester Gyasi, has released a prayer song from the Upper Room Experience Concert.
The song, titled ‘let your will be my will’, reflects Nana Jesse’s heartfelt surrender to God, expressing his dependency on divine guidance.
Through soul-stirring lyrics and a harmonious chorus, he and his accompanying musicians declared their submission to God’s will, reaffirming their trust in His direction.
Released on Friday, May 30, the song is already resonating with listeners, gaining more views on YouTube within days of its debut.
Fans have praised its uplifting message and the rich blend of voices that bring the prayer to life.
‘Let your will be my will’ was carefully arranged by Nana Jesse, Nana Kofi Junior, and Moses Boadu, ensuring a powerful and spiritually enriching experience for all.
With its heartfelt lyrics and inspiring melodies, it is set to bless many across different walks of life, offering a reminder of faith, surrender, and divine purpose.
The official song is available now on YouTube.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
