Entertainment
Point of View: Ghanaian artistes have knack for live band music amidst COVID-19
Necessity, they say, is the mother of invention, and clearly this is what has taken the Ghanaian music industry by storm in the midst of deadly coronavirus wreaking havoc around the world.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in Ghana, various measures have been taken by the government to help curb the spread of the virus. i.e ban on social gathering.
Though there has been some easing, it has not impacted the music scene significantly to open up for major concerts.
There is no denying the fact that concerts amongst other public events are the major sources of income for most Ghanaian artistes.
Due to the situation, there have not been a lot of events on the music scene, as artistes and their managements put in a lot of effort to change the status quo by shifting from the traditional concert model to charting new paths.
As the nation adjusts to the new reality of life, a number of artistes and bands are connecting with their fans on live streaming platforms, exhibiting their prowess and knack for live band music to help alleviate the uncertainty and fear instigated by the outbreak.
It is established that music is a powerful means of connecting people, and the joy even becomes intense when it is’ enjoyed live.
Performing without an audience is certainly a little awkward, however, these concerts were far from the normal miming the industry is noted for, as artistes have exhibited their prowess in live band music.
Many a time, Industry players complain of the lack of love for live band music among Ghanaian artistes.
The narrative has however, shifted in the wake of COVID-19, as the likes of, Samini, Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale, Wendy Shay, Edem, Eric Jeshrun, Joe Mettle, Akesse Brempong, Kelvyn Boy, M.anifest, Adina, Cina Soul, Efya, Wiyaala, Camidoh among others have rekindled hope in live band music in the country.
Clearly, the virtual concerts are shaping up to be part of their business portfolio, with the hope of generating healthy income and engaging a geographically dispersed base of core fans.
It is my hope that this new normal will positively impact the music industry when COVID-19 is defeated, because a vibrant music economy drives value for countries in several important ways.
It cannot be underestimated that it fuels job creation, economic growth, tourism development and artistic growth, and strengthens a country’s brand.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
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
Entertainment
Miss Tourism Ghana 2024 thrills the world at Miss Orient Tourism Global
2024 Miss Tourism Ghana, Lawrencia Ama Yeboah, thrilled the world with breathtaking performances at the recently concluded Miss Orient Tourism Global pageant in Malaysia.
Her mind-blowing performance earned her the 2nd runner-up slot and other accolades at Miss Orient Tourism.
Miss Orient Tourism Global is a beauty pageant focused on promoting tourism and celebrating global unity and cultural diversity.
Speaking to The Spectator after the event, Miss Tourism 2024, Lawrencia Ama Yeboah said, it is a dream come true and honour to represent her beloved Ghana on a global stage.
She said, from “May 18 to 24, I immersed myself in the vibrant culture of Malaysia for the Miss Orient Tourism Global pageant, and I’m thrilled to share that I’ve returned home as the Second Runner-Up. It was an absolute dream come true, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we, as Ghana, achieved.
According to her, the week was a whirlwind of unforgettable moments,adding that they kicked things off with glamorous evening gown and swimwear photoshoots, which were her first real taste of the international spotlight.
“However,it was during the National Costume competition that my heart truly swelled with pride. I poured my soul into showcasing Ghana’s rich heritage, and standing there in our beautiful traditional attire, I was absolutely ecstatic to be named the First Runner-Up for Best National Costume.It felt like a win for every Ghanaian, a testament to our incredible artistry,” she revealed.
Recounting how her experience commenced, she told the paper “Our journey took us from the historical charm of Melaka to the bustling energy of Kuala Lumpur, where we settled into the luxurious Royal Chulan Damansara. The excitement continued at the KL Gateway Mall, where subsidiary awards were presented. I was genuinely humbled and delighted to be awarded Miss Crowning Glory.”
The grand finale on May 23,2025 was electrifying considering the fierce competition, however, Miss Tourism Ghana became overjoyed to win another sash as the Second Runner-Up Miss Photogenic, proving that Ghana’s beauty truly shines.
Excitement reached its crescendo when she was called again as the overall Second Runner-Up of Miss Orient Tourism Global.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Miss Tourism Ghana Organisation, Mrs. Delphine Brew-Hammond, expressed appreciation to GTP, Tang Palace Hotel, NASCO, Kaya Tours, Lush Hair, and Max Beauty, among others, for helping project Ghana’s cultural heritage on the international stage.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
