Entertainment
Stonebwoy serenades fans at ACDA Emancipation Festival as part of his 5Th Dimension tour
BET-award-winning singer Stonebwoy took the stage by storm at the Emancipation Festival 2023 in Guyana, leaving the massive crowd electrified with an unforgettable performance as part of his highly anticipated on-going North American and Canada tour.
The multi-cultural event, held at National Park in Georgetown on Tuesday (August 1), was taken to new heights as thousands of fans came together to witness one of the biggest names in the music industry deliver a show like no other.
Hosted by the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA), it provided Afro-Guyanese the opportunity to showcase their businesses and also celebrate the 185th anniversary of emancipation from slavery.
Known for his chart-topping hits and charismatic stage presence, The Ghanaian-based international recording and performing afrobeats, dancehall, and reggae artist wasted no time in delivering an explosive set that had the audience dancing and singing along from the very first song.
Decked out in his signature style, Stonebwoy, who was introduced by legendary Grammy-award-winning reggae royal Morgan Heritage, delivered an impressive array of his greatest hits, taking fans on a journey through his illustrious career.
The high-energy set featured a seamless blend of chart-toppers and emotionally charged singles, showcasing the depth of his artistry. His ability to connect with the audience on a personal level was evident, as fans were seen singing along to every word, their hands swaying in the air.
Throughout the night, 1GAD showcased his incredible versatility as an artist, effortlessly transitioning between consonant reggae tunes that resonated with the theme of the festival. Songs like “Run Go,” “Greedy Men,” “Therapy,” “Into The Future,” and “Activate” had the audience singing along.
The 5th Dimension tour, in support of his new album, continues its journey across North America and Canada before heading to Europe later this year for a three-date UK tour. Stonebwoy’s next stop is in New York, at the Summerstage Festival on August 5. From there, he is expected to wind through a total of 10 major U.S. and Canadian cities.
5th Dimension, Stonebwoy’s follow-up to his 2020 LP, Anloga Junction, arrived April 28 via Universal Music Group and DefJam Recordings. The 17-song record includes “Manodzi” (which features multi-GRAMMY award-winner Angelique Lidjo), “Life & Money” (which features Stormzy), and “Into The Future”.
The album thematically incorporates Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall, amapiano, folk, and other genres while leaning primarily toward pop-related themes. It showcases the artist’s evolution and growth, pushing boundaries and delving into uncharted musical territories.
Stonebwoy’s “5Th Dimension” North America tour dates are,
5th August, New York, NY (USA)
6th August, Boston, MA (USA)9th August, Hartford, CT (USA)11th August, New York, NY (USA)
12th August, Philadelphia, PA (USA)
13th August, Washington, DC (USA)
16th August, Atlanta, GA (USA)
20th August, Detroit, MI (USA)
25th August, Toronto, ON (CANADA)
26th August, Edmonton, AB (CANADA)
27th August, Vancouver, BC (CANADA)
Stonebwoy’s “5Th Dimension” Europe &
UK tour levellers should watch out for him on 26th October, Manchester 27th October, Birmingham,27th October, London
Watch “Life & Money” featuring Russ here: https://youtu.be/zUhPBMqjDj8
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
