Entertainment
Joy FM organises MUSIGA Presidential Debate
Candidates aspiring to take up mantle of leadership of the Musicians Union of Ghana, MUSIGA, last Saturday had their policies put to a strict scrutiny a debate powered by Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z entertainment programme.
The Event held at Labadi Beach Hotel, brought the three aspirants, Bessa Simons, Deborah Freeman and Ras Caleb Appiah Levi before industry stakeholders.
George Quaye, moderator of the programme, gave all the aspirants opportunity to present their manifestoes with alternative solutions to MUSIGA’s woes, and later put their presentation to strict scrutiny through thought-provoking questions.
Consequently, the gathering made up of musicians, journalists and others in the music value chain were given the opportunity to ask the aspirants questions.
The Acting President, Bessa Simons, who has once served as First Vice and National Organiser, in his presentation said, as part of his plans to make MUSIGA attractive, he would introduce a professional training and exchange programmes to expand the scope of knowledge of musicians.
Also, he promised to strengthen the Regional bodies, and champion digitisation agenda as well as an insurance policy to attract more musicians.
Madam Deborah Freeman, who was once a secretary of the union on her part said, her policies would protect creative and performing right, develop talent,and improve copyright.
“I will champion cultural exchange, welfare and insurance policies, and ensure accountability to ensure a strong union,”she said.
She promised befitting offices for all the regions in her first 100 days in office and review the constitution of the union.
Ras Caleb Appiah Levi, who is the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of MUSIGA, noted that he was ready to unify the group, and lead them on a path which would make the union more attractive than it was.
He said high on his agenda was a review of the constitution because the union needed a cleansing to ensure music industry was respected.
MUSIGA is set to go to the polls on January 12, 2022, to elect a new president to succeed, Bice Osei Kuffour, affectionately called Obour.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Ghanaian music icon, Akwasi Poku Addae, known in Showbiz circles as Kwaisey Pee has honoured his promise to children suffering from cancer.
Ahead of his 25th anniversary event held at the D’ Icon Event Centre at East Legon last year, he made a promise to donate some funds to children suffering from cancer.
True to his word, the musician has recently made a donation of GHC50,000 to the Paediatric Oncology Unit of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.
He told the Ghanaian Times that children are so dear to him, and was optimistic the support would go a long way too impact lives.
The music dynamo also promised that the gesture will not be the last,” it will be a continuous feature from me.”
He also called on Ghanaians home and abroad to lend a helping hand to children suffering from cancer.
According to him, children with cancer have many needs, and a helping hands will go a long way ease the suffering.
“Cancer treatment is very expensive, and leaving that to parents of the children alone, will be a huge burden, with support from you and myself, we can make some changes in other people’s lives,” he concluded.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
In the ever-evolving journey of Ghanaian music, there are individuals whose contributions transcend the spotligh.
There are always men and women who work quietly yet powerfully to preserve culture, nurture legends, and keep the soul of the music alive across generations and borders.
One such figures is Jerry Amoah, widely known and affectionately called Nana Kobo.
This year, Ghana Music Awards-USA honours Jerry Amoah for his unwavering commitment to sustaining Ghanaian music, both at home and in the diaspora.
It is a recognition long deserved, a celebration of decades of passion, sacrifice, and cultural stewardship.
Jerry Amoah’s journey has never been about personal glory. Instead, it has been anchored in service: promoting Ghanaian sounds, advocating for artistes, and ensuring that the richness of Ghana’s musical heritage continues to resonate beyond national borders.
Through his tireless efforts, many Ghanaian musicians have found platforms, audiences, and renewed relevance, especially within Ghanaian communities abroad.
Central to his legacy is his steadfast support for gospel music and, in particular, his enduring association with legendary gospel icon Yaw Sarpong.
At times when gospel music needed champions, Jerry Amoah stood firm—protecting its values, amplifying its message, and honoring its pioneers. His respect for Yaw Sarpong is not merely professional; it reflects a deep appreciation for music as ministry, heritage, and moral compass.
Colleagues often describe Nana Kobo as a bridge—connecting generations, genres, and geographies.
He understands that Ghanaian music is not just entertainment, but identity. Through festivals, promotions, mentorship, and behind-the-scenes advocacy, he has helped ensure that Ghana’s rhythms, lyrics, and spiritual expressions remain relevant in a globalized world.
As Ghana Music Awards-USA prepares to bestow this honour, it is not simply recognizing one man—it is saluting a lifetime of dedication to culture, faith, and music.
Jerry Amoah’s story reminds us that true impact is measured not by applause, but by legacy.
And in the story of Ghanaian music, Nana Kobo’s legacy is written in bold, enduring notes.
