Entertainment
Joseph Matthew wins ‘International Artiste of the Year’ at EMA 2020
UK-based Ghanaian Afro gospel artiste, Joseph Matthew, known in the music scene as JM, has won the ‘International Artiste Of the Year’ at this year’s edition of the annual Emerging Music Awards (EMA).
EMA is an award scheme that sought to honour and appreciate the musical works of young artistes who have excelled in the eight main music genres in Ghana.
The awards ceremony which was held virtually in Accra last Saturday was streamed live on Angel TV and other social media platforms.
The award winning gospel artiste of international repute beat Elijah The Worshiper (France), Bekey Mills (Austria), Tony 2 Bless (Italy), Melody Frimpong (USA), Esther Afua Yerenkye (USA), Francis Armah (UK), Rich Boggie(Germany), Freddy X (USA), Jay Baba (USA), Bra Chief (Italy), Jide Williams (USA) and Massimo Youngblood (UK).
Gospel Songstress, Jayana was also adjudged Emerging Artiste Of The Year whilst Male Vocalist of the Year went to Abochi (Bestie). Derrick Korankye took home Gospel Artiste of the Year with Kophi Mystro being honoured Dancehall Artiste of the Year among others.
This year’s edition saw 25 top talented emerging musicians in the Ghanaian music industry being recognised and celebrated on one prestigious platform.
JM’s music has gone down well with some gospel music lovers in Ghana and beyond.
He started his music career some years back and has featured in a number of musical events on both local and international musical platforms.
The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has expressed profound sorrow over the death of celebrated visual artist and Guinness World Record holder Sharon Dede Padi, popularly known as Padiki.
In a statement signed on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer, Maame Efua Houadjeto, the Authority said Padiki’s passing was a painful loss to Ghana’s tourism and creative sectors, as well as the nation at large.
“Padiki was more than a Guinness World Record holder. She was a beacon of resilience, determination, creativity, and youthful excellence whose remarkable achievement brought pride not only to herself and her family but also to Ghana,” the statement said.
It added that through her determination to dream big and push boundaries, she inspired countless young people to believe that passion, perseverance and hard work could make the impossible possible.
The Authority said Ghana had lost “one of its brightest ambassadors whose story embodied the spirit of innovation, excellence, and the boundless potential of our people”.
Maame Efua Houadjeto, together with the management and staff of the GTA, extended condolences to Padiki’s family, friends and loved ones, as well as all those inspired by her journey.
Fast-rising Afrobeats and Afro-fusion artiste, PzeeFire has released a new 7track Extended Play (EP) titled ‘Lovely Summer.’
Nigerian born, Ghanaian-based David Ayuba, affectionately called, PzeeFire is known for blending authentic African rhythms with alternative sounds and versatile genres.
The new project features tracks including, Dangerous Love, Fatal Attraction, Stuck on You, Jukpa, Highway Blues and Focus.
To mark the release, the talented singer-rapper hosted a listening party for the EP at the premises of WhatsApp TV.
Speaking about the project, PzeeFire said, ‘Lovely Summer’ explores themes of love, vulnerability, and passion. He added that some songs on the EP also test the authenticity of love between partners.
The artiste expressed optimism that the sound and quality of the EP can represent Ghana on any international platform.
‘Lovely Summer’ is now available for streaming on all major digital platforms worldwide.
Signed to Speech LLC, PzeeFire has remained consistent over the years, known for pairing soulful Afro swings with stunning visuals.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
