Entertainment
Ghanaian Gospel Music Continues to Surge in Popularity, Inspiring Young Ghanaians
As Easter approaches, the soul-stirring sounds of Ghanaian Gospel music are resonating with listeners more than ever. Whether it’s the powerful lyrics that evoke deep emotions, or the uplifting melodies that set the perfect tone for a day of reflection and celebration, the surge in streaming on Spotify is a testament to the genre’s enduring popularity.
From the soaring vocals of renowned artists to the rich harmonies of Gospel choirs, Ghanaian Gospel musicians are reaching new heights and their music continues to capture the hearts of Ghanaians.
It’s no surprise to see some of the industry’s biggest names seeing some increase in their songs around Easter. Yaw Sarpong’s Oko Yi sits proudly at the top of the list – a powerful testament to the artist’s enduring popularity and the song’s timeless message of hope and faith. Meanwhile, Ohemaa Mercy’s Ote Me Mu is another firm favourite, with its uplifting lyrics and soaring vocals capturing the hearts of listeners across the country. The list is further enriched by the music of Joe Mettle, Diana Hamilton, Obaapa Christi, and Koda.
Among 18-35-year-old Ghanaians, certain songs have risen to particular prominence, becoming some of the most added songs on playlists. Leading the way is MOG’s Be Lifted, an anthem of praise and worship. When it comes to playlist additions, Joe Mettle’s songs are on everyone’s lips, with five songs in the top ten: My Everything, Bo No Nie, Turning Around, Yesu Mo, and Ga Praise. Celestine Donkor’s Agbelolo, a call to worship that showcases the artist’s incredible vocal talents, also made the cut.
Below is a breakdown of Ghanaians favourite gospel songs;
Biggest track listenership increases this Easter
Oko Yi – Yaw Sarpong
Ote Me Mu – MOG, Ohemaa Mercy
Enyo (He Is Good) – Bethel Revival Choir, Joe Mettle
Hosanna – KODA
W’ agye Me – Obaapa Christy
Nsenkyerene Nyankopon – Diana Hamilton
Meda Wase – Hannah Marfo
W’asem – Diana Hamilton
Nkwa Abodoo – KODA, Nacy (feat. Nacy)
Tenabea Foforo – Yaw Sarpong
Playlisted tracks by 18-35 year old Ghanaians during Easter
Be Lifted (Live) – MOGmusic
My Everything – Joe Mettle
You Covered Me – Dr. R. A. Vernon & “The Word” Church Praise Team
Bo No Nie – Joe Mettle, (feat. Luigi Maclean)
Elohim (Live) – MOGmusic
Turning Around(Live) – Joe Mettle
Hallelujah – MOGmusic
Agbelolo – Celestine Donkor
Yesu Mo – Joe Mettle
Ayeyi Ndowm – DSP Kofi Sarpong
“The Ghanaian Gospel genre is experiencing a surge in popularity, with listeners responding to its powerful messages of faith, hope, and inspiration. With young listeners showing a particular affinity for certain songs and artists, it’s clear that this vibrant genre has a bright future ahead,” says Spotify’s head of music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu.
Entertainment
Nineteen57 Events announces Black Stars Legacy Awards
Nineteen57 Events has announced the launch of an event aimed at celebrating Ghanaian, African, and diaspora achievements.
The event is a prestigious platform dedicated to honouring exceptional individuals and organizations contributing to the growth and success of the Ghanaian society, the African continent, and the African diaspora.
Since its inception as part of Rhythms on the Runway in 2019 during Ghana’s historic Year of Return celebration, the Black Star Legacy Awards has recognized remarkable achievements in creative arts, culture, and beyond.
It has always been a component of ‘Rhythms On Da Runway,’ however, the organisers have decided to stage it as an independent event this year.
This shift allows for an expanded focus, honouring excellence across various fields, including business, leadership, innovation, science, and humanitarian efforts.
This bold move aligns with the awards’ mission of celebrating the spirit of achievement and innovation that defines Ghana and connects it to the broader Pan-African and global community.
While specific event details, including categories and selection criteria, are still being finalised, the Black Star Legacy Awards promises to be an unforgettable experience that highlights the very best of Ghana, Africa, and the diaspora.
Esteemed icons from Ghana, Africa and the African Diay such as Obrafour, Ricci Osei, Hon. Lisa Hanna, Reggie Rockstone, Queen Asabea Cropper, Nene Agyemang, Agya Koo Nimo, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Morgan Heritage, Stonebwoy, and Richard Mofe Damijo have been among the honorees, setting the stage for what has become a highly anticipated annual celebration of excellence.
Entertainment
Zhikay Junior launches ‘The mind shift campaign’
Ghanaian award winning gospel blogger Isaac Nartey, popularly known as Zhikay Ike Junior, and his team have launched a campaign at Sap’s School in Teshie-Nungua, located in the Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipal Assembly in the Greater Accra region.
Themed ‘The mind shift campaign’, it was aimed to touch the lives of students by educating them on the use of social media and how it can impact lives.
Isaac Nartey, told The Spectator that the purpose of the campaign was to orient students in Ghana about social media and its impact.
Sharing photos from the campaign on Facebook, Zhikay also emphasised the importance of listening to children’s concerns, which include mental health, emotions, and societal acceptance.
“We must not consider children as just minors, they have genuine concerns that revolve around mental health, emotions, societal acceptance and others. We must create avenues for their voice to be heard,” He explained
The campaign included education, games, and entertainment. Some students received customized ‘Zhikay’ items as rewards for their hard work.
This initiative seems to be made a positive impact on the students.
‘The school tour will delve into the overview of social media and how it can be used to impact society positively,’ he added
Zhikay embarked on the tour with popular Ghanaian content creators such as “Freedom Official” and “Quecy Official.” Together, they created an educational and engaging atmosphere for the students.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
