It is often said: give gospel artistes a stage and a band, and leave the rest to them—nine times out of ten, they will deliver a performance worth your time and attention.

That’s exactly what Empress Gifty did in living colour at the TGMA Nominees Xperience Concert, held at the Takoradi Mall last week Saturday.

The turnout was massive, the anticipation palpable. From the moment Empress and her band mounted the stage, it was clear that something special was about to unfold—and she didn’t disappoint. Song after song, she dazzled the large and lively crowd. Her command over the band, her effortless connection with the audience, and her choice of songs (including well-loved melodies and choruses that weren’t her own) all contributed to a captivating performance. She brought it all to a crescendo with her latest single, Watch Me, in a truly virtuoso display.

Hers was one of the standout performances on a night filled with stellar displays by some of Ghana’s finest. For Takoradi residents, it was a much-needed reminder of the magic of live performances, and the TGMA Nominees Xperience Concert—with its star-studded lineup—was the perfect catalyst.

Now, let’s talk about BeezTrap KOTM.

Sure, I knew the young man and was familiar with his collaborations with the likes of Sarkodie and Tulenke. But I must confess—I wasn’t deeply acquainted with him as a performer. That changed in Takoradi. His stage presence was electrifying, his confidence was so HIGH even Bob Marley would have been proud. One hit after another, he delivered with infectious energy. What amazed me most was the crowd’s enthusiastic response, even to tracks you wouldn’t expect them to know. They rapped and sang along with passion—it was inspiring.

That night, I became fully convinced that BeezTrap KOTM deserved his nomination in the Best New Artiste of the Year category and I was proud of the TGMA board for recognizing his talent. On my drive back to Accra the following day, I searched BeezTrap KOTM on Spotify and listened to his entire catalogue—some tracks on repeat—until I got home.

Other acts also left lasting impressions. Jupitar, as always, commanded the stage with his signature live band energy. Kwaw Kese brought his iconic “abodam” vibe, thrilling the crowd with timeless hits and sealing the moment with his current smash, Awoyo Osofo. Sista Afia charmed the audience with her presence and strong show(wo)manship. Kuami Eugene was his usual vibrant self—effervescent, dynamic, and crowd-friendly, dishing out one banger after another. King Paluta delivered a solid set anchored by recent hits like Makoma and the TGMA's Most Popular Song-nominated Aseda.

And then came Takoradi’s own Kofi Kinaata to bring it all home. He warned everyone—those in the crowd and viewers watching on TV across the country—that his performance would be a lengthy one. And indeed, it was. But the crowd had waited patiently for his set, and he rewarded them with a hit-packed finale that left everyone satisfied.

It was an unforgettable night of music and energy in Takoradi, filled with excitement, fan love, and performances that lit up the venue. And Empress Gifty, in particular, emerged as a worthy ambassador for gospel music, delivering a show that reminded us just how powerful the genre can be.

The TGMA Nominees Xperience Concert serves as the perfect precursor to the main event. As nominees intensify their campaigns and fans rally support, the stage is set for another unforgettable night on May 10th. If the energy in Takoradi is anything to go by, we’re in for a thrilling celebration of Ghanaian music at the TGMA.