Entertainment
Actors pay tribute to late Prince Yawson (Waakye)
The movie fraternity was on Tuesday August 2, 2022, hit with the sad news of the demise of veteran actor, Stephen Prince Yawson, affectionately called Waakye, 65, at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra.
Waakye came to the limelight when he was discovered by Grace Omaboe, known in movie circles as Maame Dokono, at the Arts Centre to join the Obra Television Series on GTV in the 90’s.
He rose through the ranks and featured in many movies and at a point became a Production Manager for numerous productions.
Some of the movies he featured in included, Diabolo, Obra, Marijata, Babina and Chorkor Trotro.
Family and friends will gather on August 26, at the Accra Tourists Information Centre close to the Jubilee House to observe the One-Week rite.
Against this backdrop, The Spectator reached out to some actors to share their fond memories and pay tribute to him.
Astute movie producer, Socrate Safo said, Waakye was hardworking, adding that he had worked with him on about four productions which the late Prince Yawson was a Production Manager.
“He was one of the best production managers in the country, he got close to me through Jagger Pee, we became friends and I later made him join the NPP in 2008, where we campaigned for the party. Waakye was dedicated to his responsibilities, unfortunately he battled sicknesses for years. May his soul rest in peace.”
Renowned actress, Kalsoume Sinare, said Waakye was a good actor she met in the early 90’s at the Arts Centre, when he was then a member of Theatre Mirror club.
“He was very calm, hardworking, I will say the industry has lost a gem. My last encounter with him was when he was a Production Manager at a set two years ago, and he told me he wasn’t feeling well. May he rest in peace.”
Veteran Kofi Falconer also said that Waakye was a good person he met way back and they became friends.
“As a Production Manager, he doesn’t joke with his work, he is always serious. In the past five years, he has been coming to my pharmacy shop at Accra New Town anytime he visits his mother, and also as a Regional Chairman of Ghana Actors Guild, Waakye does call me at times to share ideas with me,” he said.
According to him, Waakye reached out to him recently to discuss a project unfortunately, “a week after he paid me a visit, his wife called to break the news of his passing. My condolences to the family and his mother who is still alive, it’s a big blow to her.”
Award-winning actor, Mikki Osei Berko affectionately called Master Richard, on his part said, Waakye shaped his acting career, and he was someone he looked up to in the 90’s. “He used to call me anytime he saw my works and suggested to me I could have done it this or that way. I must say, he was an experienced actor, he would be missed, may his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Comic actor, Akrobeto, told this paper the death was a big blow, and that he had worked with Waakye on some sets as a Production Manager, and attesting to his strong work ethics.He said, Waakye paid his dues to the movie industry. “My deepest condolences to his family, May His soul rest in perfect Peace.”
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
Oncemore Six to headline Symphonic Gospel Meets Orchestra 2024
Symphonic Music Ghana is set for the 4th edition of the Symphonic Gospel Meets Orchestra concert, scheduled for December 22 at The Palms Convention Centre in Accra.
This year’s event will feature renowned South African gospel artiste Oncemore Six as the main performer.
The singer is known for his powerful worship songs like “Here on our knees” and “Ohlonishwayo”.
‘Oncemore Six’ has inspired audiences across Africa with his heartfelt music.
Joining him on stage will be a lineup of talented gospel musicians, including Grace Charles, Shadrach Kwesi Mensah, Efe Grace, Charnté Eseyin, Lordina The Soprano, Kofi Owusu Peprah, Luigi Maclean, Enuonyam, and more. This diverse group of artistes promises to deliver a memorable evening of worship and praise.
The concert aims to blend contemporary gospel music with classical orchestral elements, creating a unique and uplifting experience for all attendees. As a live recording event, it offers the audience an opportunity to be part of a significant moment in Ghana’s gospel music scene.
The tickets are still available for purchase.
You can’t miss this opportunity to experience a night of powerful worship and musical excellence. Mark your calendars for tomorrow and join at The Palms Convention Center for an unforgettable evening.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Entertainment
2024 Eastern Music Awards: Daasebreba Kwame crowned Artiste of the Year
Rising music sensation Daasebreba Kwame has been crowned Artiste of the Year at the 2024 Eastern Music Awards held at the Koforidua Cultural Centre.
The Eastern Music Awards, currently in its fifth year, promotes and recognises remarkable artistes thriving in the region and throughout Ghana in a variety of categories.
The night featured thrilling performances by nominees and past winners, highlighting the Eastern Region’s rich musical tradition.
Daasebreba Kwame, who is signed to the Yaco International record label, has had a successful year, winning the prestigious Artiste of the Year award, as well as Highlife Song of the Year at this year’s Eastern Music Awards.
Daasebreba Kwame’s Artiste of the Year prize package included a performance at the 2025 African Music Week in Canada.
In his acceptance speech, Daasebreba Kwame expressed gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support and dedicated this award to all aspiring musicians in Ghana.
He emphasised the importance of staying true to one’s musical roots while embracing innovation in music, and this was received by massive applause from attendees at the auditorium.
This accolade is a significant milestone in the career of Daasebreba Kwame, who is known for his unique blend of traditional Ghanaian sounds with contemporary music styles, which has captivated audiences both locally and internationally.
Winning this award not only highlights Daasebreba Kwame’s individual talent but also underscores the growing recognition of Eastern Region artistes within Ghana’s broader music industry.
Daasebreba Kwame’s victory at the Eastern Music Awards marks a significant achievement not just for him but for all artistes striving for excellence in their craft.
As he continues to inspire others through his music and dedication to cultural heritage, it is clear that he will remain a prominent figure in Ghana’s evolving music landscape.
This year’s event saw an increase in nominations across various genres, reflecting a diverse range of musical expressions emerging from the region.
