Entertainment
Point of View: Ghanaian artistes have knack for live band music amidst COVID-19
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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
Ghanaian musician Ezecheal Kwasi Asimeng Frimpong, popularly known as Ancienth has released a new Palmwine single titled ‘Asukese Abena’.
The song is a celebration of love, culture, and the timeless wisdom embedded in Ghana’s traditional way of life.
According to him, the project is meant to remind people that Palmwine music is not a relic of the past.
“Through this project, I want people to understand that Palmwine music is not a relic of the past, it is a living heritage that still speaks powerfully to the present,” he said.
Ancienth traces his journey in Palmwine music to the pioneering work of Kwame Asare, also known as Jacob Sam, and the Kumasi Trio. He credits them with laying the foundation for one of Ghana’s most important musical traditions, a path that later generations continue to walk.
“I entered this space because I believe every nation must protect its cultural voice,” Ancienth explained, adding that “Palmwine music carries our stories, values, humour, history, and identity. Preserving it is not only a musical responsibility but also a cultural one.”
The musician described the journey as rewarding but challenging, noting that traditional music often receives less attention and investment compared to mainstream genres.
To strengthen the space, he is calling for greater support from the media, cultural institutions, educational bodies, and the public.
“My appeal to Ghanaians is simple, support indigenous music, because when a people lose their cultural sound, they gradually lose part of their identity,” he added.
As a torchbearer of Palmwine Music, Ancienth says his mission is to honour the legacy of the pioneers while introducing Palmwine music to new generations and audiences across the world.
Asukese Abena is now available on all digital platforms, including YouTube
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
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.
