Entertainment
Merqury Quaye: Pioneering the DJ Culture in Africa
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Merqury Quaye, a name that resonates throughout the African music industry, is widely hailed as the father of DJs in Africa. With his groundbreaking contributions and relentless efforts, he has revolutionized the DJing landscape across the continent. Merqury Quaye’s influence extends far beyond his home country of Ghana, inspiring countless DJs and shaping the way music is experienced throughout Africa. This article explores the remarkable journey and enduring legacy of Merqury Quaye, the visionary who laid the foundation for the DJ culture in Africa.
Pioneering the DJ Culture:
Merqury Quaye’s journey began at a time when the concept of DJing was relatively nascent in Africa. He recognized the power of music and saw the potential for DJs to not only entertain but also influence and elevate the industry. Merqury Quaye played a pivotal role in popularizing DJing as a profession and art form, bringing it to the forefront of African music culture.
Founding the Ghana DJ Awards:
A significant milestone in Merqury Quaye’s career was the establishment of the Ghana DJ Awards. Understanding the importance of recognizing and honoring DJs for their contributions, he created a platform that celebrates their artistry and showcases their talent. The Ghana DJ Awards has become a prestigious event, providing a stage for DJs to shine and promoting excellence within the profession.
Promoting African Talent:
Merqury Quaye has been a relentless advocate for African music and talent. Through his radio shows and events, he has tirelessly promoted and supported local artists, helping them gain exposure and recognition both within Ghana and beyond. Merqury Quaye’s dedication to African music has played a significant role in elevating the continent’s musical heritage and fostering a sense of pride in its diverse sounds.
Shaping the African DJ Scene:
As an accomplished DJ himself, Merqury Quaye has left an indelible mark on the African DJ scene. His skills behind the turntables are legendary, captivating audiences with his eclectic mixes and ability to read the crowd. Merqury Quaye’s performances are an immersive experience, seamlessly blending different genres and creating an electric atmosphere wherever he goes. He has set the bar high for DJs across Africa, inspiring them to continually push boundaries and strive for excellence.
Mentoring the Next Generation:
Merqury Quaye’s influence extends beyond his own achievements. He has dedicated himself to mentoring and nurturing aspiring DJs, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation. Through workshops, seminars, and personal interactions, he has played a vital role in shaping the careers of numerous DJs, imparting invaluable skills and instilling a passion for the craft.
Conclusion:
Merqury Quaye’s impact on the DJing landscape in Africa cannot be overstated. As the father of DJs in Africa, he has pioneered the profession, established platforms for recognition including the Ghana DJ Clinic, and propelled African music and talent onto the global stage. Through his vision, passion, and relentless dedication, Merqury Quaye has left an indelible legacy that will continue to shape and inspire DJs across the continent for generations to come. His contribution to the African music industry is truly exceptional, and his influence will be felt for years to come.
Organisers of Rhythms On Da Runway have announced November 28, 2026 as the date for the 16th edition of the event, to be held at the Palms Convention Centre.
This year’s edition, themed: ‘UNBOUND: Because You’ve Got Style’, is focused on breaking barriers in fashion and creating space for all.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of Nineteen57 Events, Shirley Emma Tibilla, affectionately called Cookie Tee, the focus of this edition is to give everyone an opportunity to express themselves without barriers.
She told The Spectator that as a leading fashion brand in the country and beyond, they want to open doors for people regardless of their colour, size and abilities among others.
Described by the BBC as “the biggest cultural exposé in Africa,” Rhythms On Da Runway returns this year as a celebration of fashion, music and individual expression without limits.
Organisers say for years fashion has been shaped by narrow ideas of who belongs on the runway, with certain body types, ages and abilities placed at the centre while many others are left out. UNBOUND seeks to open that picture.
This year’s runway will welcome people with different abilities, backgrounds, body types and personal stories. The theme will influence model casting, the collections, the stories told through the clothes and the way guests experience the event.
Beyond the runway, ‘Unbound’ will create room for young people to learn from established designers, gain practical experience and explore careers within fashion and the wider creative industry.
It will also open conversations around adaptive fashion, accessible event design, talent discovery, mentorship and employment.
The 2026 edition will bring together fashion designers and music stars from Ghana and across the African diaspora, with strong collections, live performances and an all-star cast of celebrity models.
The event will also feature the Black Star Awards, which will honour public figures shaping Africa’s future through leadership and contributions to the continent’s Orange Economy.
Organisers say the list of participating designers, performing artists, award recipients and other event details will be announced in the coming weeks.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
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Veteran Ghanaian gospel musician Bernice Offei has passed on Saturday August 12, 2026.
She was 63.
The news of her demise flashed through social media on Saturday, prompting an outpouring of grief from musicians, fans and members of the Christian community, who have since paid tribute to her distinguished career.
She gained strong reputation as a singer, songwriter and minister whose music transcended generations.
Some of her popular songs include ‘Kaa She Gbeyei,’ ‘It’s By Grace,’ ‘Nyame Kokroko’ and ‘N’adom Ara Kwa.’
Her contribution to the growth of gospel music in Ghana was recognised in 2009 when she won the Best Female Vocal Performance and Songwriter of the Year awards at the Ghana Music Awards, now known as the Telecel Ghana Music Awards.
Beyond music, Mrs Offei distinguished herself in academia and professional life. She attended Achimota School before earning an MPhil in Crop Science from the University of Ghana and a Master’s Degree in Information Technology from University College London in the United Kingdom.
Mrs Offei was married to Prof. Samuel Kwame Offei, a former Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, and the couple had two children.
Her death comes days after she was reported missing but was later found safe.
Mrs Offei leaves behind a rich music legacy that continues to inspire faith, hope and resilience among generations of listeners. -GNA
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You can now read the Ghanaian Times and The Spectator newspapers from the comfort of your device via TimesNewsPlus.
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