Entertainment
I hope Grammy Recognition will change the Ghanaian youth perception of highlife as “Old People Music” – Naana Blu
Naana Blu, the talented singer known for her enchanting highlife music, has expressed her hope that the younger generation of Ghanaian youth will embrace highlife as a genre for everyone, rather than associating it solely with the older generation.
Highlife music, a popular style cherished by Ghanaians and Nigerians alike, has garnered recognition by being included in the Grammy Awards’ Best African Music Performance category.
In light of this development, Naana Blu opened up about the criticism she has faced from some prominent figures in the Ghanaian music industry for pursuing highlife music.
She hopes that the endorsement from the Grammys will put an end to the disparaging remarks she has endured.
“As Ghanaians, we tend to value things more when they receive international recognition. Therefore, I hope that the majority of Ghanaian youth will begin to appreciate and support highlife music, encouraging young artists like myself who are determined to push the boundaries of this genre by creating more highlife songs that can be enjoyed and serve as a source of education,” Naana Blu explained.
Alongside her inspiring words, Naana Blu recently released a chart-topping Afrobeats track titled “Cartoon,” which has been met with great enthusiasm, amassing numerous streams and receiving extensive airplay. To listen to the song, visit ffm.to/naanablu_cartoon.
In 2020, Naana Blu made her debut with the release of an EP titled “This Is Highlife,” featuring five captivating highlife songs: “Ohia,” “Odo Asem,” “You Dey Do Yourself,” “This Is Highlife,” and “Highlife Dance.” Experience the beauty of these songs by clicking on this link: lnk.to/CruxNaaNaBlu-ThisIsHighlife.
Entertainment
Prophet Atarah opens new studio, launches Atarah Praise 2025
Prophet Joseph Atarah has launched his annual event aimed at bringing believers together in an atmosphere of worship and praise.
The theme for this edition is ‘Restoration’ with the belief that patrons would be restored in the face of their challenges.
The programme will be in two parts, with the first scheduled to take place in the United Kingdom at 5pm on May 11, at Pleasant Place Church.
The Ghana edition will take place at the forecourt of Believer’s Grace Crown Ministry International, Bond Square, Adenta Barrier, at 4pm on May 25.
Prophet Atarah has paraded Piesie Esther, Kofi Owusu Peprah, Nana Yaw Asare and Mavis Asante among others for the Ghana edition.
For the UK edition, patrons will enjoy performances from Kofi Owusu Peprah, Kobby Mantey, Emmanuel Smith, and Ern Ruthy.
Speaking at the launch, Prophet Atarah said, God has been good throughout last year, and 2025 has started on a positive note.
Against this backdrop, he wants to bring believers together and, in unity, to praise God.
He said, like what happened last year, a lot of miracles will take place.
In a related development, Prophet Atarah also commissioned a new studio for rehearsals and live recordings.
This, he said, was not limited to him, but open to every musician across all genres.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
Empress Gifty to thrill patrons at MTN Stands In Worship on Easter Sunday
Ghanaian gospel heavyweight, Empress Gifty is set to thrill thousands at this year’s MTN Stands In Worship event.
The programme brings believers together annually to celebrate the death and resurrection of Christ.
This year’s edition, slated for the Grand Arena on Sunday, April 20, will feature Empress Gifty.
Against this backdrop, the anointed gospel musician has urged all patrons to come with a heart of worship and praise.
She is optimistic that a lot of miracles will happen through the ministration.
“Through our ministrations instant miracles will happen and you are going to have an encounter with God,” she told The Spectator.
Empress Gifty again appealed to patrons not to come alone, but with their families and friends to receive blessings.
Empress Gifty, who had a big song dubbed Watch Me, has been nominated in the Best Traditional Gospel Song of the Year and Gospel Artiste of the Year categories at this year’s 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards.
