Entertainment
Stonebwoy featured on Bob Marley’s posthumous album ‘Africa Unite’
Legendary reggae icon Bob Marley has recruited elite Ghanaian reggae and dancehall musician Stonebwoy for his latest project, a tribute album titled “Africa Unite”.
Scheduled for release on Friday, August 4, 2023, the 10-track collection promises new interpretations of the renowned reggae musician’s most popular songs.
The magnificent posthumous album features the colossal hits reimagined with the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats by the best in reggae and Afrobeats’ fusion, including the popular “Buffalo Soldier,” which features the Ghanaian BET award-winner and GRAMMY-nominated singer.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Stonebwoy’s career, adding to his list of esteemed partnerships with reggae’s Luminaries.
Recently, he has worked closely with the German reggae star Gentleman as a guest artiste on his single “Can’t Lock The Dance”, which came after his collaboration with the Ivorian reggae legend Alpha Blondy on “Love Power” received critical recognition, further cementing his reputation as a globally recognized reggae ambassador.
“Africa Unite” also includes collaborations with Tiwa Savage, Teni, Rema, and Oxlade, each adding their unique flair and artistry to Bob Marley’s iconic compositions.
It showcases the global reach of Bob Marley’s music and celebrates the rich tapestry of African rhythms and melodies.
By blending reggae’s soulful vibrations with the infectious energy of Afrobeats, the album embodies unity and collaboration, reflecting the late artiste’s vision of a harmonious world.
Stonebwoy is currently in the US making media stops as part of his on-going “5th Dimension” North America and Canada tour in support of his new album.
The tour, which commenced on July 15th with a show-stopping performance at the Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival in Duluth, Minnesota, will take the celebrated Ghanaian musician to multiple cities across the USA and Canada in the coming days. Last week, he paid a visit to the GRAMMYs headquarters in Los Angeles.
The artist, who fuses Afro-pop, dancehall, and reggae, has remained one of Ghana’s leading names in music since 2012.
He is a 3x Most Streamed Ghanaian Artist on Boomplay (2018, 2019 and 2020) and in 2021 made history by topping the Boomplay Awards with 7 awards.
He has duetted with international artists such as Agelique Kidjo, Stormzy, Shaggy, Beenie Man, Keri Hilson, Sean Paul, Trey Songz, Burna Boy, Alpha Blondie, and many more, and has rocked stages from the UK to the USA, Australia, Italy, Puerto Rico, and Amsterdam, making his electrifying touring an integral part of his career. His new album, 5th Dimension, was released a few months ago to rave reviews.
The Blood Crew, a Ghanaian contemporary gospel music group based in Kumasi, celebrated its 10th anniversary in ministry with a special cake-cutting ceremony during the Grace Concert held at Gracefields Chapel, Havlah Temple, Ahodwo.
The celebration formed part of the group’s annual live recording event, ‘The Blood Effect’, which brought together thousands of worshippers, gospel music lovers, ministers, and invited guests for an unforgettable night of worship and live music recording.
The anniversary cake was officially cut by the Founder and Music Director of the group, David Nana Bonsu, popularly known as Nana Quophi, together with Rev. Simon Ampofo, shortly after the first session of live recordings featuring newly composed songs and selected old compilations.
The ceremony was witnessed by alumni members, current team members, invited gospel artistes, instrumentalists, management, and worshippers who gathered to celebrate the milestone achievement of the ministry.
The occasion marked 10 years of The Blood Crew’s contribution to gospel music ministry, worship, fellowship, evangelism, mentorship, and youth impact through music.
Members of the group used the opportunity to reflect on their journey over the years and expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the ministry and helping them remain impactful.
The event featured ministrations from UK-based Ghanaian gospel artiste Emmanuel Gyamfi, Pastor Edwin Dadson, Team Eternity Ghana, Manuel Tuffour, Joshua Ahenkorah, and Yefter Nkansah.
The group described the anniversary celebration as a moment of thanksgiving, reflection, and renewed commitment to continue impacting lives through gospel music and worship ministry.
Over the years, The Blood Crew’s annual ‘The Blood Effect’ live recording event has grown into a recognized platform for worship, spiritual impact, and gospel music ministry in Kumasi and beyond.
This year’s edition uniquely combined live recordings with the group’s 10th anniversary celebration, making it one of the most memorable editions since the ministry began.
By Spectator Reporter
Contrary to the belief that winning an award elevates an actor to an almost ‘godlike’ status, Ghanaian actor Melvin Dain holds a different view.
According to him, accolades were important, but they do not define the true essence of an actor.
Speaking ahead of the Ghana Movie Awards scheduled for tomorrow, Dain emphasised that awards should be seen as recognition rather than a measure of ultimate worth.
“I don’t think awards define who an actor is; however, I believe they provide recognition and validate an actor’s performances in the industry,” he said.
The actor has been nominated in two categories; Best Actor in a Supporting Role and Discovery Actor of the Year, a milestone he describes as both encouraging and humbling.
“Being recognised at this stage means a lot to me. It tells me that the work I’m putting in is being seen, and that alone is encouraging,” he noted.
Reflecting on his journey, Dain said the nominations have offered him the opportunity to appreciate his growth in the industry.
“It reminds me of where I’m coming from and how far I’ve come. It also gives me more reason to keep pushing, to keep learning and to keep growing as an actor,” he added.
Despite the recognition, the actor remains grounded, acknowledging the stiff competition in both categories.
He described his chances of winning as evenly balanced, given the calibre of nominees.
“Looking at the names on the list, I will say it’s a 50/50 chance. Some of these people are my idols, and just being in the same category with them is a humbling moment for me,” he said.
He added, “the nominations represent more than just a shot at winning; they affirm my rise in the industry and reinforces my commitment to excellence.”
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
