Entertainment
Kwabena Kwabena became a bigger artiste after endorsing Akufo-Addo – Okraku Mantey
Deputy Minister for Tourism Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku Mantey has shared a contrary view to claims that political affiliations lead to a decline in brand values of entertainers.
According to him, for someone’s brand value to soar or dim depends on the individual.
The Deputy Minister made this assertion on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z last Saturday.
Mark Okraku made reference to Kwabena Kwabena as an artiste’s whose career excelled and became vibrant even after he endorsed Nana Akufo-Addo as Presidential Candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“Kwabena Kwabena became a bigger artiste after ‘NPP Wo Soro’ [song]. Yea, Kwabena Kwabena became a bigger after endorsing Candidate Akufo-Addo. So if you have your issues don’t blame them on the political parties,” he said.
He added that “If you manage yourself well, you position yourself well as a brand, [you will thrive].”
“I spoke with some companies that I used to work with. I said you guys because I am now in politics you wouldn’t want to work with me. They said when I am done with politics, I should come and that they are ready to still do business with me,” he said.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
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
Entertainment
Contenders for 8th GMA-UK unveiled
Nominations for this year’s Ghana Music Awards-UK have been unveiled with some surprises and keen competition.
The event held last Thursday at Yaya La Parisienne, Labone in Accra, brought together some musicians and industry players.
Powered by Alordia Productions, the Taabea Ghana Music Awards UK 2024 will be held on Saturday, October 19, at the Grand Sapphire Hotel, Croydon, London.
Speaking at the event, the Coordinator for GMA-UK, Ernest Kwesi, expressed his appreciation to all stakeholders for their support.
According to him, GMA-UK will continue to create a platform to promote Ghanaian artistes and their music to the world.
He encouraged music lovers and fans to vote for their favourite nominees in each category from now till the main event.
Interestingly, Black Sherif, King Promise, Kuami Eugene, Nacee, Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale and Amerado will wrestle each other for the coveted ‘Artiste Of The Year crown whiles Seven KiZs, Kasar, Lali x Lola, Keeny Ice, Kwesi Amewuga, Alaptawan
Safo Newman, Beeztrap KOTM, Fad Lan Kwekus and Kofi Badd contest for the Uncovered Artiste of the Year award.
Another keen battle will be the Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year, where Stonebwoy
Shatta Wale and Samini will feature.
Best Gospel of the Year Artiste category will see Diana Hamilton, Joe Mettle, Joyce Blessing and others compete for the ultimate.
There are categories like Hip Hop Artiste of the Year, Hip Hop Song of the Year, Highlife Artiste of the Year, Best Rapper of the Year, Best Collaboration and Most Popular song of the year among others up for grabs.
