Entertainment
ICONIC: Stonebwoy performs with Angelique Kidjo, Youssou N’Dour, Ibrahim Maalouf, and more in London
Ghanaian reggae and afropop star Stonebwoy joined Grammy-winning singer Angelique Kidjo on stage at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday night, as part of her 40th anniversary concert.
The two artists performed their collaborative single Manodzi, a song that celebrates the resilience and diversity of African cultures, in front of a packed and enthusiastic audience.
Stonebwoy, who is one of the most popular musicians in Ghana and Africa, expressed his gratitude and admiration for Kidjo, who he described as a “legend” and a “mentor”.
He also praised the legend for her contribution to the global recognition and appreciation of African music.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to be here with you tonight. You are a living legend, a mentor, and a role model for me and many others. You have paved the way for us to showcase our talent and our culture to the world. Thank you for inviting me to share this stage with you,” he said.
Kidjo, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers of all time, reciprocated the compliments and thanked Stonebwoy for his collaboration and friendship.
The concert was a celebration of Kidjo’s 40-year career spanning catalogue, which includes 14 studio albums, four Grammy awards, and collaborations. The night also featured performances from artists such as Laura Mvula, Grammy-nominated trumpeter Ibrahim Maalouf, and Senegalese superstar Youssou N’Dour.
The audience, which included fans from different backgrounds and generations, cheered and danced along to the music, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere. Some of the attendees shared their impressions and reactions on social media, praising the performance and the message of the concert.
“What a night! Angelique Kidjo and Stonebwoy were amazing. They brought the house down with their energy and talent. I loved every minute of it,” one user wrote on Twitter.
“This was more than a concert. It was a celebration of Africa, of music, of life. Angelique Kidjo is a force of nature, and Stonebwoy is a star. They made me proud to be African,” another user commented on Instagram.
A leading name in African music circles, Stonebwoy is credited with pioneering and powering the Afro-dancehall music genre into a globally accepted cultural phenom.
The artist is gearing up for his highly anticipated BHIM Festival at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, December 22, 2023.
Entertainment
Ayisi teams up with Fameye for Highlife classic “Sika”
In a follow-up to his successful collaboration with Worlasi on “Everyday People,” Ayisi has once again partnered with prolific songwriter Fameye for a timeless highlife track titled “Sika,” which translates to “Money.”
This track is expected to make waves across Ghana and beyond, as it speaks to the universal pursuit of financial stability in a meaningful, melodious way.
Money, as Ayisi rightly points out, is a universal and never-ending topic of discussion. In “Sika,” both artists reflect on the role money plays in life and the lengths one must go to secure it.
Ayisi emphasizes a strong work ethic, noting that laziness will only lead to hunger and hardship. His message is clear: one must take action and pursue financial stability to navigate life successfully.
On the other hand, Fameye’s verse focuses on the idea of self-reliance when it comes to wealth. He highlights that becoming wealthy is something he must achieve on his own, without waiting for handouts or relying on others.
Fameye’s perspective complements Ayisi’s, creating a well-rounded narrative about ambition, responsibility, and financial independence.
“Sika,” produced by GroovyWrld, is deeply rooted in the classic highlife sound—a genre that has long been a cornerstone of Ghanaian music. The soulful melodies make it an instant classic that evokes a sense of nostalgia, while the contemporary twist keeps it fresh for today’s audience.
Ayisi, widely respected for his independent spirit and unique musical style, has typically preferred working alone, cultivating his own space in the industry. However, his recent collaborations signal a new chapter in his career, one that is more collaborative and expansive.
Through these collaborations, Ayisi is not only broadening his creative horizons but also offering his fans new and exciting musical experiences.
With “Sika,” Ayisi and Fameye remind us that while money may not be everything, the drive to earn and sustain oneself is essential to success.
Available on all Digital Streaming Platforms – https://yve.ampl.ink/Sika
Entertainment
Aku Favor shares inspiration behind new song ‘Celebrate’
• Aku Favor
Ghanaian gospel singer Aku Favor has shared the story behind her new song, “Celebrate.”
The song was released on September 5, 2024 on all the various music streaming platforms.
In an interview with The Spectator Agoro, she explained that the song comes from her deep desire to praise and worship God continuously.
“I have always wanted to connect with God in a deeper way. This song is my way of showing that desire, to give God the constant praise and worship He deserves.” Aku Favor explained.
Aku Favor is known for praising and worshiping God wherever she is, whether in the kitchen or the bathroom; she always finds a way to lift God’s name. She shared that she got some of the lyrics for ‘Celebrate’ while taking her bath; receiving biblical inspiration while reading the Bible, specifically Psalm 150:6.
She said that with God’s guidance, she has created a beautiful song in English, Twi, and Ewe.
Her journey in gospel music has always been driven by her passion for worship, and this new song is no different. Fans are excited to hear the release and experience the spiritual depth and dedication that she puts into her music.
As gospel music continues to grow, artistes like her are making a strong impact by creating songs that are more than just entertainment; they are tools for worship and spiritual connection.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
