Entertainment
Stonebwoy releases video for Manodzi featuring Beninese queen, Angélique Kidjo
Multiple award-winning Ghanaian dancehall star Stonebwoy releases his most prestigious video for the brand new single, Manodzi, featuring 5 x Grammy Award-winning singer Angélique Kidjo.
Directed by Ghanaian filmmaker, director and cinematographer, Yaw Skyface, the video was shot on location at the palatial Chateaux Bouffémont in the Bouffémont commune in France.
Dating back to 1860, the chateaux provided the perfect backdrop for the video’s sweeping introduction, setting the scene for the true African royal experience taking place within its walls.
The video reflects the message behind the single Manodzi well. Referred to as Stonebwoy as the ‘root’ of his 5th Dimension album, the track is aptly placed last in track-listing. But it also has a deeper meaning concerning where Stonebwoy feels he is going in life and urges listeners to take comfort in the meaning.
The song simply means, ’keeping on’, whilst working hard to achieve one’s dreams. “I call it the last, but not least track on the album”, he states, because its uplifting message drives the listener to remember where they come from and where they are going – and getting to work with Angélique Kidjo has been a dream for Stonebwoy since the beginning of his career.
“It was an honour to work with Ms. Kidjo, she is like a mother to me and Africa at large,” Stonebwoy revealed.
Kidjo is a multi-faceted singer, actor and activist and well-known for her immensely diverse approach to African sounds.
Through Manodzi she expanded further by contributing vocals sung in the Ewe language, one that is not her native tongue. It is also her first feature outside of her primary language, which fans are finding particularly poignant.
The internet has exploded with love for the track, with social platforms and react videos calling it Stonebwoy’s most spiritual track to date, proving that the collaboration resonates with listeners regardless of language.
The video itself is without a doubt one of the finest cinematic experiences that Stonebwoy has released in his career.
Produced by London-based Casey Kobia, the crew and cast pulled out all the stops to produce one of the finest African music videos to date.
It instils the sense that Stonebwoy is taking his rightful place amongst leaders in the African music industry, and with Ms. Kidjo making an appearance in the video alongside him, it is the perfect culmination of years of dreams and hard work paying off.
Catch the video live right here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pf7aZsUHe5Y
Entertainment
My ‘Victory’ song is a prophetic declaration – Mavis Asante
Ghanaian gospel musician, Mavis Asante, has disclosed that her new song dubbed, ‘Victory’ is a prophetic declaration in one’s life.
The song, produced by renowned producer, Kaywa, has been making waves recently.
Speaking to The Spectator Agoro she said the song was inspired by a scripture in 2Kings 7:1, in which “Prophet Elisha prophesied to the City of Samaria that, tomorrow by this time food will be in abundance whereas the city was facing a great famine.”
Mavis Asante further added that the song preaches a message of hope and prophetic declaration, “A personal and spiritual reflection of resilience and faith.
A message encouraging believers and listeners to trust God no matter the situation. A message that resonates deeply in these challenging times. A motivational message.”
Touching on the feedback received after the song was released, Ms Asante revealed that it has been amazing.
According to her, as a matter of fact people have already shared some testimonies, adding that “we give all the glory to God. And it’s already topping musical charts in the country.”
She said the music video just won an award as the Best Video at the just ended GH Awards, held on November 15 at the Silver Bird Cinemas.
The gospel music icon urged Ghanaians to expect the Victory Concert in 2025, which will be her first major concert and her biggest programme since her entry onto the music space 15 years ago.
Entertainment
Quame Gyedu wins top gong at Praise Achievement Awards 2024
Justice Gyedu Amissah, well known as Quame Gyedu has made headlines with his remarkable achievement at the Praise Achievement Awards 2024, where he clinched the Worship Song of the Year award.
This recognition highlights not only his incredible talent or songwriting skills but also the impact of his music in the gospel community.
The Praise Achievement Awards, known for celebrating excellence in gospel music, provided a platform for various artistes to showcase their work.
Quame Gyedu’s win is a testament to his dedication and passion for worship music, resonating deeply with listeners and uplifting spirits.
His song ‘Osaberima’, released last year November has captivated audiences throughout the year and has become a staple in many worship services, reflecting the profound influence of his artistry.
The award was received by gospel blogger Skbeatz Records on his behalf at the event held on Sunday, November 24 at the Perez Dome.
He was the only artiste who won an award from the Ashanti Region.
As fans and fellow musicians celebrate this milestone, Gyedu’s achievement serves as an inspiration for aspiring artistes in the gospel genre.