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
Foto Copy tackles realities of friendship in new song
Ghana’s decorated young musician, Foto Copy, known in private life as Kallai Nana Qwaachi has tackled the realities of friendship in his new song.
The song tackles issues of conflict, loyalty, reward, ingratitude and betrayal of trust in friendship.
According to him, the song produced by DDT and dubbed “Friends Today, Enemies Tomorrow”, preaches a message that goes to address some realities of life.
He revealed that many best friends some time ago have become bitter enemies now due to similar issues they failed to address.
The musician noted that people have gone all out for others and ensured their friends succeeded, but unfortunately, they paid them back with evil.
Speaking to thespectatoronline.com, Foto Copy said, these things have made people regret going all out for their friends.
He is of the view that when society becomes embittered by the negative actions of their friends, it becomes difficult for others to get help in difficult situations.
Against this backdrop, he felt the need to address this in his new song.
The song is available on all digital music stores
Stream the song below
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
Taste 68@68: Okyeame Kwame wins Celebrity Jollof Competition with Vegan recipe
Multiple award-winning Ghanaian musician and activist, Okyeame Kwame, known in private life as Kwame Nsia-Apau has been adjudged winner of the ‘Taste 68 @68’ Celebrity Jollof Competition.
The ‘Taste 68 @68’ Celebrity Jollof Competition was an event organised by the Ghana Tourism Authority(GTA) as part of activities to mark the country’s Heritage Month recently.
The event held at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park brought together industry players among others.
Okyeame Kwame competed with Mr.Beautiful, Uncle Ato, Victoria Lebene and Joyce Blessing.
The Rap Dacta called his food, the Vegan Jollof funnily some of the spectators claimed his Jollof could ‘lower global warming’ due to the ingredients used.
He used mushrooms, bell peppers, tomatoes, rice, oil and other vegetables.
The protein source was seitan which is made from wheat gluten.
Ultimately, he overcame other culinary skills from his competitors for the ultimate crown.
Okyeame Kwame expressed his appreciation to everyone who tasted it and urged Ghanaians to consider it as part of their delicacies, adding that it is healthier.
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of GTA Mr.Gilbert Aggrey, affectionately called Abeiku Santana said Okyeame Kwame won the competition not because he is famous and likeable.
According to him, Okyeame understood gastronomy tourism and techniques in culinary artistry, a strength he leveraged against his competitors.
He added that “if you look at the presentation of his meals he used cucumber to garnish his food by creating a design with his initials, OK, Okyeame Kwame. In gastronomy tourism, there should be a story and motivation behind the food that you have prepared.”
Abeiku Santana further noted that Okyeame Kwame’s presentation was outstanding considering how he linked food to climate change and the symbiotic relationship between humans and animals.
He congratulated him for emerging as the winner of the competition.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
