Entertainment
Point of View: Ghanaian artistes have knack for live band music amidst COVID-19
Necessity, they say, is the mother of invention, and clearly this is what has taken the Ghanaian music industry by storm in the midst of deadly coronavirus wreaking havoc around the world.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in Ghana, various measures have been taken by the government to help curb the spread of the virus. i.e ban on social gathering.
Though there has been some easing, it has not impacted the music scene significantly to open up for major concerts.
There is no denying the fact that concerts amongst other public events are the major sources of income for most Ghanaian artistes.
Due to the situation, there have not been a lot of events on the music scene, as artistes and their managements put in a lot of effort to change the status quo by shifting from the traditional concert model to charting new paths.
As the nation adjusts to the new reality of life, a number of artistes and bands are connecting with their fans on live streaming platforms, exhibiting their prowess and knack for live band music to help alleviate the uncertainty and fear instigated by the outbreak.
It is established that music is a powerful means of connecting people, and the joy even becomes intense when it is’ enjoyed live.
Performing without an audience is certainly a little awkward, however, these concerts were far from the normal miming the industry is noted for, as artistes have exhibited their prowess in live band music.
Many a time, Industry players complain of the lack of love for live band music among Ghanaian artistes.
The narrative has however, shifted in the wake of COVID-19, as the likes of, Samini, Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale, Wendy Shay, Edem, Eric Jeshrun, Joe Mettle, Akesse Brempong, Kelvyn Boy, M.anifest, Adina, Cina Soul, Efya, Wiyaala, Camidoh among others have rekindled hope in live band music in the country.
Clearly, the virtual concerts are shaping up to be part of their business portfolio, with the hope of generating healthy income and engaging a geographically dispersed base of core fans.
It is my hope that this new normal will positively impact the music industry when COVID-19 is defeated, because a vibrant music economy drives value for countries in several important ways.
It cannot be underestimated that it fuels job creation, economic growth, tourism development and artistic growth, and strengthens a country’s brand.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
Kay9ice apologises to Shatta Wale
Afro-highlife musician, Kay9ice, known in private life as Philip Kay Kissi has publicly apologised to award-winning dancehall musician Shatta Wale and the Shatta Movement following his controversial remarks about his song.
Kay9ice made the comments about Shatta Wale’s song on Adom TV’s Showtime programme with Sally Mann.
Kay9ice believes the comments passed did not sit well with the Shatta Movement.
Against this backdrop, in a recent interview on Wontumi TV, Kay9ice expressed regret for his statements, clarifying that he never intended to disrespect Shatta Wale.
“I would like to use this opportunity to apologise to all S.M fans, I might have made some comments which I never intended for it to sound wrong to the fans, I have no intention of disrespecting such an icon,” Kay9ice added.
Kay9ice is currently promoting his latest release dubbed “Pema”, which is making waves since the release.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
Von Sinu releases debut single ‘Thank You’
Von Sinu, an upcoming gospel musician, has released her debut single titled ‘Thank You’ which is gaining popularity on the airwaves and streaming platforms.
‘Thank you’ seeks to appreciate God for his goodness and faithfulness in her life.
In an interview with The Spectator in Accra, Von, who is also a fashion designer said “looking back at my life and what God has told me about myself, I was grateful.
She said she had to record it and later sent it to a friend who has been very instrumental in her being a gospel singer.
She said though there were other songs written and recorded, she thought it was prudent to release ‘Thank you’ as the Bible urges believers to give thanks in Psalm 92:1-2: “It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your name”
The song is available on all digital platforms including Youtube, Spotify, Apple music Deezer and Tidal.
By Jemima Esinam Kuatsinu
