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.
Ghanaian dancehall artiste Charles Nii Armah Mensah, known as Shatta Wale, has won two awards at the 43rd International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) held in Florida over the weekend.
He picked up the Best African Dancehall Entertainer award as well as Concert of the Year for ShattaFest.
In a statement, Shatta Wale’s management expressed appreciation to the organisers and supporters of the awards.
“Management would like to sincerely appreciate the organisers of the IRAWMA awards for the recognition and continuous support for African music on the global stage.
“We also extend our deepest gratitude to fans across the world, especially the Shatta Movement fraternity, for their unwavering support, votes, and dedication throughout the years,” the statement said.
The statement added that the latest wins reaffirm the artiste’s position as one of Africa’s leading musical exports and a prominent figure in global dancehall culture.
The awards bring Shatta Wale’s total haul at the IRAWMA to 11, highlighting his continued presence on the international reggae and dancehall scene.
At last year’s edition, he won three awards: Best African Dancehall Entertainer, Best Music Video for “Killa Ji Mi”, and Best Crossover Song for “Commando” featuring Bounty Killer. -GNA
Legendary gospel artist Herty Ofori Borngreat is officially returning to the music scene after a 13-year hiatus, her management announced Wednesday.
The surprise announcement ends over a decade of absence from the music industry for the celebrated singer.
According to an official statement released by her management team, the upcoming comeback will feature a rollout of new music projects and various spirit-filled initiatives aimed at inspiring hope and connecting with believers globally.
“We are delighted to officially announce that Herty Ofori Borngreat is making a highly anticipated return to the gospel music scene,” the management team noted in a statement, expressing deep gratitude to fans and partners for their unwavering loyalty during her long absence.
They added, “We are confident that this comeback will be both impactful and memorable.”
Management has urged fans, the media, and the global gospel community to follow her official social media platforms for update.
No specific dates have been set for the first single, but updates are expected in the coming weeks.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
