Entertainment
Shatta Wale’s ‘Kumerica Invasion Project’, a good omen for budding musicians
Gone were the days when Kumasi was seen as the citadel of Ghana’s creative arts industry producing prominent musicians, movie makers, among other amazing talents in the entertainment circles.
For some time, this long held title, has vanished, due to lack of support and spotlight to enable artiste cross over to mainstream stardom.
This has led also to a surge in musicians and actors who cut their professional teeth in the trade in Kumasi move to Accra to grow their craft and take it to the next level.
Interestingly, the script, seems to have changed for budding musicians in Kumasi following the ‘Kumerica’ trend. One of the sectors in Kumasi which has benefited enormously from the ‘Kumerica’ sensation is the music industry, as the trend has put a lot of spotlight on music talents.
Kumerica is an internet slang for the Garden City of Ghana, Kumasi in the AshantiRegion. The word Kumerica was coined from a blend of Kumasi and America (Ku + merica) by the young people of Kumasi who live ostentatious lifestyle full of luxury and display of jewels and flashy cars like the people of America.
Originally, their main purpose was to showcase their riches and luxurious lifestyle, to tell the world that though they live in Kumasi their lifestyles are like Americans; and this includes how they speak American English.
In the light of this, the Kumerica vibe has gripped the whole country in various dimensions, to the extent that, music talents from the region have taken advantage of the trend to release a lot of songs to catch the attention of the world.
This culminated in the dancehall heavyweight, Shatta Wale who stormed Kumasi on Thursday, November 5, 2020, for an initiative termed as “Kumerica Invasion project.”
From the scenes, and interviews granted so far by artistes like, Amerado, Ypee, Phrimpong, Kweku Flick, King Paluta, Kofi Jamar, and Phaize who are involved in the project, Shatta Wale’s presence in the region was a dream come true for young upcoming musicians.
Many see it as a masterstroke to instill confidence and energise the base of music in the region, and subsequently open the door for many to rise to the top.
Though other accomplished artistes over the years had extended support to budding artistes through collaborations and others means as this move by Shatta Wale has taken a different turn from the normal route.
Shatta Wale decided to go to Kumasi, shoot the various scenes of the music video in the neighbourhoods of the artistes featured on the song.
A move which has validated the artistes in their communities, increased the buzz around them and shot up their popularity.
One of them said, the initiative had made him and his other colleagues more popular in their community which was good for their brand. Clearly, from the numbers the activities have attracted coupled with the media hype, these young artistes could take advantage of the situation to make a strong case for their careers.
This calls for unity, hard work and consistency to keep the Kumerica Movement strong and going.
Kudos to Shatta Wale and his team for extending this helping hand to budding musicians in Kumasi.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
The DebbyQueen Talk Show returns with Powerful New Seasons from today
The highly anticipated DebbyQueen Talkshow is set to premiere Season 5 this month on Lifestyle TV, promising viewers an even deeper dive into the inspiring, emotional, and transformative stories that have made the show a must-watch across Africa.
For global viewers, episodes will be available on the DebbyQueen TV YouTube Premium, Instagram, and Facebook, featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
Hosted by the charismatic and insightful Mrs. Deborah Borketey-Tackie (DebbyQueen), the talkshow has built a reputation for its raw, unfiltered conversations with some of Africa’s most influential personalities. From entrepreneurs and activists to artists and change-makers, each episode delivers powerful life lessons, vulnerability, and motivation.
This season’s release marks a bold step forward for the show, featuring enhanced storytelling, new segments, and even more gripping interviews. Mrs. Borketey-Tackie has curated a lineup of guests whose journeys, filled with struggle, resilience, and triumph, will leave audiences inspired and empowered.
From Pascal Amanfo (award-winning film director) to Whitney Boakey-Mensah (women’s health advocate), Mrs. Mary Amoah (an autistic mother’s journey), Atinganma Talata (an Endometriosis survivor), each guest will share untold stories of setbacks and comebacks.
Focus on Youth & Entrepreneurship, with Africa’s next generation in mind, the show will feature young innovators, startup founders, and thought leaders sharing practical advice on business, leadership, and overcoming adversity.
This season’s production is proudly supported by an impressive roster of leading brands, reflecting the show’s growing influence and commercial appeal.
La-Palm Royal Beach Hotel, the venue sponsor, takes center stage as the headline sponsor.
Other major sponsors include HM Life Mixture reinforcing its commitment to health and wellness, Wilmar Africa producers of Frytol cooking oil, JAMAA Detergent, and Fortune Spread showing support towards entrepreneurship and youth empowerment.
Bel-Aqua Mineral Water and Bel Beverages serve as the official hydration partners, ensuring premium refreshments for guests and crew. Ghandour Cosmetics enhances the glamour with professional beauty services.
Additional supporting partners include our fabric sponsors: Mabelina Fabrics, Trinity Kente, Lana Fabrics, Fabric Lot Gh. Ahlai Maadai Enterprise and Hair sponsors: Hair Logistics Gh, Look Afriq, and Hairytales.
The culinary experience is elevated by EzyGrab Gh. and Randa Cakes & More as the official food sponsors for the crew and guests.
Additional support comes from Soul Impact Family Production, the lighting and stage partner, Akenteng Furniture, providing sofas for the set, and Sweet Aroma Print, in charge of all branding and print materials.
Thanks to the backing of these premium sponsors, the show has undergone significant upgrades in production.
The set design at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel exudes sophistication, featuring multi-camera cinematic techniques that rival international talkshows. The inclusion of professional makeup stations by Vendajules Slay World, Glorigels World, KL Makeover and Amy’s Ethicon ensures host and guests look their best.
The DebbyQueen Talkshow has become more than just a TV program, it’s a cultural movement. By blending authentic African storytelling with universal themes of resilience, the show has captured audiences beyond Ghana, including viewers in Sierra Leone, Liberia, South Africa, Canada, and the diaspora.
Media analysts praise its unique approach where vulnerability meets empowerment and its ability to spark meaningful conversations about success, mental health, and personal growth.
“This season is about truth, transformation, and triumph,” says Mrs. Deborah Borketey-Tackie.
“We are not just sharing stories, we are changing mindsets. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a dreamer, or someone looking for hope, these episodes will speak to you,” she concluded
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
