Entertainment
VGMA Honors Titans at the National Music Summit 2023
The VGMA (Vodafone Ghana Music Awards) recently honored two exceptional individuals, Elder SK Ampiah and Francis Kwakye, with the prestigious Titan Award at the National Music Summit 2023.
This award is a testament to their immense contributions to the development and growth of the music industry in Ghana.
Both Elder SK Ampiah and Francis Kwakye have dedicated their lives to elevating the music industry and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.
The event happened at La Palm Beach Hotel on 21st June 2023, in commemoration of World Music Day.
Elder SK Ampiah has played a pivotal role in the gospel music industry.
As a writer, instrumentalist and singer, his music compositions have been the true vehicles for praise and worship over decades.
He’s composed over 200 songs over 5 decades, including Onyame Tumfo (God Almighty), Onyame yɛ Nyame Kɛse (God is a great God), Yesu ne wu (The death of Jesus), Me twer ɔbotan bi (I lean on a particular rock), Mmo Yesu (Well done, Jesus).
It is common knowledge that his songs are performed in almost every Christian gathering in Ghana as praise and worship.
Similarly, Francis Kwakye has made significant contributions to the music industry through his relentless efforts since 1969.
For 54 years his dedication, commitment and selflessness to sound engineering in the Ghana music industry has known no bounds, working with virtually all legends and A-lists artistes in Ghana, and providing services for entertainment shows across the nation and internationally.
Via self-founded company, Rythms Africa, he’s extended his services to over 1000 events and programs.
The VGMA Titan Award serves as an inspiration to others in the industry, encouraging them to strive for excellence and make a positive impact. It also highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring individuals who have dedicated their lives to the betterment of the music industry.
Elder SK Ampiah and Francis Kwakye’s contributions will continue to inspire future generations of musicians, producers, and industry professionals to work towards the development and growth of the music industry in Ghana.
It is through their vision, passion, and determination that the music industry in Ghana continues to thrive.
The Titan Award is a fitting tribute to their exceptional achievements and the legacy they leave behind.
Mr. Kwakye’s presentation was heartily presented by the legendary singer and Acting President of MUSIGA, Bessa Simons, who could not hold back his personal tribute in the process.
Elder SK Ampiah, who was represented by his son, had is plaque presented by legendary singer and former President of MUSIGA Diana Hopson.
With excitement that could not be hidden, she did not only give her personal tribute in words, she brought Elder SK Ampiah’s songs to life by singing them live.
The event was hosted by Andy Dosty with performances from Prince Hakeem, Indigenous Band and Nii Tete Tetteh & the Tendaan Muzik.
Management of Ghanaian dancehall artiste Shatta Wale, born Charles Nii Armah Mensah, has confirmed plans to take legal action against broadcaster and musician Blakk Rasta over comments they describe as defamatory.
In a press release issued on Monday January 19 2026, Shatta Wale’s management announced that the artiste has instructed his lawyers to file a defamation lawsuit following a series of public statements which they consider false and damaging to his reputation.
The statement noted that Shatta Wale respects freedom of expression and the role of the media in public discussion. |
However management stressed that free speech comes with responsibility and requires accuracy fairness and professionalism especially when discussing a person’s character and integrity.
According to the management the decision to go to court was taken after careful consideration.
They explained that the legal action is meant to protect the artiste’s personal and professional image and to reinforce the need for responsible broadcasting in Ghana’s media space.
Management also indicated that since the matter is now before the courts Shatta Wale will not address the issue through the media.
They expressed confidence in the judicial process and believe the courts are the right place to resolve the matter.
The statement assured fans business partners and the general public that Shatta Wale remains focused on his music ongoing projects and positive contributions to the entertainment industry.
By: Jacob Aggrey
The Christmas festivities were nothing short of fun and excitement, especially for patrons of Dodi World in Akosombo in the Eastern Region.
A major highlight was a memorable voyage aboard the famous MV Dodi Princess II, a 150-capacity pleasure boat, which sailed to the scenic Dodi Island, an 84-hectare natural haven.
Among the patrons was a vibrant social group known as ‘Weekend Day Out’, which brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds and workplaces to interact, share ideas and enjoy memorable leisure experiences.
On December 26, the group joined hundreds of other fun lovers to fill the vessel to capacity for what many described as an experience of a lifetime.
The over five-hour journey from Dodi World through to Dodi Island was electrifying. Patrons enjoyed breath-taking rare views of the island’s rich natural scenery and wildlife before returning onboard for the cruise back to the starting point.
The atmosphere was further enlivened by music from DJs and a live band, complemented by an array of drinks and grilled meals, ensuring both young and old had something to cheer about throughout the voyage.
For members of the Weekend Day Out group, the trip served as a joyful reunion with friends after a year of professional commitments, while also providing an opportunity to plan future adventures in the coming year.
Speaking after the event, one of the patrons, Ms Gloria Yaa Baby, said although she had embarked on the voyage several times, the most recent experience was particularly breathtaking and memorable.
“This one was different, with more people and interactive sessions. It gave me many reasons to return and experience the fun again with the Weekend Day Out group,” she stated.
With another exciting adventure scheduled for March this year, she encouraged Ghanaians to make time out of their busy schedules to relax, unwind and enjoy life.
By Spectator Reporter
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