Entertainment
Why Patience Nyarko got it wrong “attacking” Joe Mettle
I had the surprise of my life this weekend, when I heard a gospel musician, Patience Nyarko, expressing disaffection for the hype of a colleague, Joe Mettle.
From the nature of gospel music genre, and what goes into it, it should be the last place where an artiste would be embittered by the rise of a colleague.
It was really surprising for such words to come from a gospel artiste even if provoked to the highest degree.
A true gospel musician is called by God and he or she understands the ministry and as such, must be guided by the Holy Spirit when making utterances about the ministry.
Why should gospel artiste Patience Nyarko be irked by a radio presenter, OB Nartey’s assertion that “Joe Mettle is the only artiste with an international appeal.”
This claim was seconded on Onua FM’s “Anigye Mmre” entertainment programme by another Ghanaian promoter, Allordia, in the United Kingdom.
According to Allordia, “most local gospel musicians billed for shows in UK flop, with the exception of Joe Mettle”.
This did not go down well with the “Obi Nyane Me” hitmaker, who felt it was an insult to other gospel artistes in the country.
Against this backdrop, she “fired” Joe Mettle on the show when expressing her disappointment, saying, “Joe Mettle doesn’t deserve his hype and that he mostly sings existing hymns.”
For her, there were other amazing talents other than Joe Mettle who wrote their own songs and must enjoy the spotlight, adding that Joe Mettle, who had been around for over a decade had not reached where Ghanaians were trying to project him.
At best Patience Nyarko and other musicians should ask themselves what is making Joe Mettle attractive to international gigs and all the hype as well as what he puts in his songs.
It must be made clear that there is no problem with a gospel artiste singing existing songs or hymns, rather it is how one is able to move the crowd and make ‘annointing’ rain on the congregation.
One mark of a gospel artiste is how to make the Holy Spirit fill a room during performances among others, not whose song it is. Congregation concentrates on the anointing, not composers.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
Afia Ayiwah out with ‘testify’
Media Ecxel Productions artiste, Afia Ayiwah, has released her latest single ‘ testify’ which is already receiving massive air play and doing wonders in the lives of music lovers both locally and international.
The single produced by Ghanaian renowned producer Kaywa, showcases Ayiwah’s powerful vocals and unwavering faith, encouraging listeners to share their testimonies of hope and redemption.
In an interview The Spectator Agoro Afia Ayiwah said her single is a blend of traditional gospel sounds and modern musical elements.
According to her, the single offers an uplifting anthem that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners.
‘The release of ‘testify’ comes at a time, as many are seeking solace and encouragement amidst life’s challenges’ and also remind listeners that faith is a journey meant to be shared within the community’ she explained.
Afia Ayiwah, known for her soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics, has been a prominent figure in the gospel music scene for several years.
With a unique ability to connect with her audience, Ayiwah’s songs often celebrate personal experiences of faith, resilience, and the transformative power of God’s love.
‘Testify’ is now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Boomplay, Apple Music, and YouTube.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Entertainment
Womba Drumming and Dance set to tour UK
Womba Africa Drumming and Dance ensemble, a traditional cultural troupe in Ghana, is set to embark on an exciting tour of the UK.
Renowned for their use of traditional instruments to create melodious, original compositions, the troupe never fails to get audiences on their feet with their high-energy performances.
“Womba” means “We are coming” in the local Ga dialect, and true to their name, the troupe makes a powerful impression wherever they go. Their upcoming UK tour, scheduled for September and October 2025, promises an immersive cultural experience centered on drumming and dancing.
From September 18 to 20, the troupe will host a workshop and training programme.
This event will delve into the history and origins of various dance styles, showcase traditional costumes and instruments, include storytelling sessions, and provide hands-on training in dance techniques, among other activities.
The workshop will take place at Lewsey Community Centre Landrace Road Luton LU4 OSW.
In an interview with their manager, Felix Nii Okai Nummello, he expressed their anticipation for the world to know how hard working the group has been over the years.
“A lot of preparation is ongoing, and we are surely going to make Africa proud on this tour”, he said.
“This is a rare opportunity to witness the vibrant rhythms and rich traditions of Ghanaian culture live in the UK. Don’t miss out, mark your calendars and be part of this unforgettable cultural celebration,” he urged patrons.
