Your most authoritative entertainment talk show in Ghana, Showbiz A-Z on Joy FM, will be introducing a new segment that will help elevate fledgling creative brands and businesses.

Dubbed The Push, this segment will provide up and coming musicians, poets, dancers, film makers, writers, fashion designers, comedians and the like, a platform to market their craft through interviews and live studio performances. 

With the creative economy showing great promise of contributing immensely to the gross domestic product of the country, Joy FM’s quota to this, is to start from the base – nurturing the people blessed with the talent to create works of art. 

Interested creatives would have to send videos and photos of their works, their names and a brief description of what they do to WhatsApp number 0551111997. Alternatively, they can also post on social media, tag Joy FM, with the hashtags #ThePush and #ShowbizAtoZ.

Showbiz A-Z has over the years has dedicated its platform to thought-leadership and progressive conversations. 

The show which starts from 2pm to 6pm on Saturdays, has a music segment hosted by DJ Wobeti who plays amazing tunes from Ghana and across the world. 

The ‘Say It Loud’ segment is an editorial that addresses critical issues plaguing the culture and creative industries without fear or favour.

The show climaxes with the big conversation which brings together the greatest minds in showbiz to analyse the relevant issues in the industry. 

Showbiz A-Z is hosted by Joy FM’s entertainment journalist Kwame Dadzie. It is backed by a formidable team of producers led by Philip  Nai. He is assisted by Anita Teye, Crispy Kay, Olivier Fangnon, and DJ Wobeti. 

Ghanaian musician Okyeame Kwame has organised the 14th edition of his annual Hepatitis B screening exercise for residents of Dome in Accra.

This year’s screening held at the Dome Market, was in collaboration with the MDS Lancet Laboratories and the Noguchi Memorial Institute. 

Okyeame Kwame’s OK Foundation holds the screening exercise every year to mark the World Hepatitis Day celebration. 

The World Hepatitis Day is an annual event celebrated worldwide on 28th July, aimed at educating the public on viral hepatitis and creating awareness of the global and regional burden associated with the disease. 

This medical outreach intends to offer complimentary screening for hepatitis B and C, as well as check for hemoglobin levels and malaria infection. For persons who tested negative for Hepatitis B, there was also free hepatitis B vaccination. Additionally, the team provided counseling and support to individuals who may have tested positive.

According Kwadwo Asamoah Kusi, an Associate Professor of the Noguchi Memorial Institute, they decided to collaborate with Okyeame Kwame on this project because of they saw how progressive his initiative had been over the years.

“Two years ago, we have a discussion with Okyeame Kwame to combine our efforts and that is what has resulted on what we are seeing today,” he said.

Okyeame Kwame, who led the team on the streets of Dome Market to conscientise people on Hepatitis B and invite the to take part in free screening exercise, told myjoyonline.com that the quest to eradicate the disease from Ghana has been his driving force for running the programme for fourteen years.

He also called on individuals and corporate institutions to come on board and offer help in various forms to help advance the worthy cause. 

The seventh installment of E.L’s Best African Rapper (BAR) mixtape makes a return after a three-year pause, representing a decade of excellence.

It may feel like just yesterday when the original BAR mixtape made it to fans with tracks like ‘American Passport’ and ‘Borle.’ Surprisingly, that was ten years ago, yet the series is still with us.

Ghana’s longest rap marathon has made significant progress since its humble beginnings without becoming a parody of itself.

That said, three years have passed since “BAR 6” dropped. But who is still counting? The wait is over. After being recorded across three studio albums in the past year and undergoing rigorous quality control, “BAR 7” steps out of obscurity into reality. Fan rage has subsided, and now it’s time to press play.

While each mixtape in the series continued to push E.L’s creative boundaries, its latest brings superiority to what he began a decade ago, to be the Best. African. Rapper.

“This album is very dear to me,” he says. Veritably, it ascends to a plane of perfection, making this seventh installment (arriving in the seventh month) an indication of the quality within.

“I feel like ‘BAR 7’ is a culmination of all the experiences I’ve had with the past BAR projects,” E.L mused, “It is a reflection of the man I am today. I also feel like this is the best installment yet.”

There were two surprises from the rapper this month: the declarative ‘BAR 7 Intro’ (accompanied by an explosive video) and the heavy bass Trap single ‘Chakido.’

The album has an abundance of features. Lyrical Joe returns for another dreaded session, ‘Boogieman,’ that mirrors his former collaboration with E.L., ‘Dracula.’

This straight-up, no-nonsense track is another jaw-dropping masterclass in lyricism. Another track to catch the eye is ‘IDGAF,’ featuring Kobi Onyame and Tradey.

‘IDGAF’ has a smooth vibe, with producer Kojo Cooks serving a flaming-hot Hip-Hop beat that complements the verses of each rapper cooly. In addition, fans of the culture get treated to the aptly titled ‘HipHop’ (prod. by Altra Nova). This track stands out with its staccato beat, reminiscent of a Busta Rhymes hit from the early 2000s.

This throwback will resonate with fans as the culture’s 50th anniversary approaches. Still, about the past, E.L enlists a sensational voice from the time. He taps the African Dancehall King, Samini, to re-capture the essence and flair of their contributions to Ghana’s iconic 2000s music era. The result is ‘One Ghana Guy,’ a memorable, self-produced encounter combines the best of both worlds: a catchy hook and irresistibly good lines.

By now, it is no secret that E.L loves to produce. He contributes six of these to the 13-track project, and all feel unapologetically his. From the hard-hitting Drill vibe of ‘Delilah,’ featuring emerging Afrobeats star AratheJay, to the gripping tale of ‘Tracy’ poised to keep fans on the edge of their seats, E.L makes each moment count, even down to when he drops scathing lines on fake rappers in ‘Facts/Cap.’

Further collaborations include ‘BAR Radio (Interlude)’ with up-and-coming producer Kreptismenace. ‘One of Us’ also sneaks in with Nana Grenade and Kev the Topic squeezing the most fun out of the ear-splitting John Doe production. There’s also the solemn ‘Pray,’ produced by TheKidValid.

The track features a hook from German-Ghanaian singer Jean Feier, whose captivating vocals add a fresh dimension to the ELien-in-Chier’s lines as he seeks inspiration. At this point, “BAR 7” hits the end of the curve. Kojo Steve takes production duty to round up the album with “God on the Sidewalk.” True to its title, the track takes a reflective approach and highlights E.L journey and future aspirations. It captures conversations with a higher power—the epitome of perfection.

“BAR 7” is not a follow-up to “BAR 6.” It is a testament to how E.L’s musical journey and artistic excellence have evolved over the past ten years. Indeed, this is a project worthy of the God Number, and E.L is excited to share his latest with the world.

Listen to “BAR 7” here: https://tieme-music.lnk.to/BAR7

The much-anticipated maiden African Arts and Music Festival 2024 is set to take place in the UK, featuring a stellar lineup of artistes and an array of vibrant activities.

Powered by Alordia Promotions and WestCoast UK, the festival promises an unforgettable celebration of African culture and creativity.

The festival will be held on three different dates: the first show on 13th September, the second on 19th September, and the third on 27th September. All events will be hosted at the Lighthouse Theatre on Camberwell Rd, London SE5 OAY. Tickets are priced at £25.

The festival will showcase a diverse range of activities, including an art exhibition, fashion show, paintings, walking arts, dreadlocks making, and contemporary African music and dance.
Meanwhile, attendees can look forward to an immersive cultural experience that highlights the richness and diversity of African arts.

Additionally, a host of talented artistes and bands are set to perform at the festival.

Epixode, known for his dynamic stage presence and unique blend of reggae and dancehall music, will be one of the main attractions.

Nonetheless, Black Rhythm Band will bring their soulful and rhythmic sounds to the audience, while Abiba Locks, a renowned name in the world of dreadlocks making and styling, will also be featured.

Glennsamm, who’s celebrated for his innovative and thought-provoking works, and the Kings of the New School, an exceptional band known for their fresh and contemporary take on African music, will round out the lineup.

The African Arts and Music Festival 2024 is more than just a music event; it’s a cultural extravaganza that offers a platform for artists to showcase their talents and for attendees to immerse themselves in the rich and diverse heritage of Africa.

With three shows spread across September, there’s ample opportunity to experience the magic and vibrancy of African arts and music.

Don’t miss out on this exciting event! Grab your tickets now and be part of a festival that celebrates the beauty and diversity of African culture.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official festival website or follow Alordia Promotions and WestCoast UK on social media.

Beatz Vampire has shared his debut instrumental album.

After conquering the airwaves hits like JzyNO’s ‘Butta My Bread,’ KiDi’s ‘I Lied,’ Shatta Wale’s ‘1 Don,’ Smallgod’s ‘Blacklist,’ Mr Drew’s ‘Mood’ and ‘S3k3,’ Lasmid’s ‘Puul,’ ‘Atele’ and ‘Sika,’ Peter Asare Badiako, professionally known as Beatz Vampire, finally shares his debut instrumental album, “Culture Harmonies.”

On the record, the young producer infuses his creativity into 14 instrumentals, capturing the spellbinding magic of Highlife, Afrobeats, Afropop, Afroswing, and Amapiano.

In “Culture Harmonies,” Beatz Vampire stepped up to the role, fusing elements from distant African cultures.

“As a creative, I thought of exploring and fusing different sounds from different cultures. I mean, why not? I wanted to feed my people with other beautiful sounds they don’t mostly hear,” he shares.

Fortunately, his new direction does not disappoint. If anything, it positions him as a producer gracefully reaching his prime.

As the CEO of Loop Music and manager for fast-rising Afrobeats singer Olivetheboy, you best believe Beatz Vampire possesses an ingrained ear for beautiful sounds. He has led the crooner to success, producing two of his top three hits: ‘Goodsin’ and ‘Asylum.’

Beatz Vampire uses this experience to his advantage, dropping delicate piano keys that evoke a sweet tingle. These soothing elements provide a serene backdrop for listeners to unwind with little to no distractions.

“Culture Harmonies” offers the perfect setting to bask under moonlit skies while sipping chilled palm wine. From ‘New York to Lagos’ to its exotic penultimate track, ‘Sika Piano,’ everything tune resonates.

The glassy keys in the latter stand out, rivaling some of the album’s best, including ‘Juice Jinja,’ ‘Kilos,’ ‘1974 Gen Z,’ and funky compositions of ‘Ganja’ and ‘Krukere Groove.’

Beatz Vampire’s debut instrumental album celebrates Africa’s identity in a beautiful tale of tradition meets innovation. It is a rare sight you don’t want to miss. From the syncopated beats of Afrobeats to the swagger of the UK’s vibrant Afroswing synths, the producer thrills down to the playful notes of Highlife and the heavy basslines of Amapiano.

Afro-Gospel singer Joseph Matthew [JM] has released0 his latest release, ‘Fear No Evil.’

‘Fear No Evil’ which has infectious Afrobeat rhythms, sublime vocals, and impressive rap skills is already gaining reviews from music lovers and analysts.

The song was produced by award-winning music producer Francis Osei.

It conveys a magnifying message of courage and faith, delivered with the conviction that leaves an indelible mark on souls.

The accompanying music video, directed by The Boldz, is a visual spectacle that complements the song’s message.

Shot in Tema, the video features stunning imagery and choreography that enhances the song’s impact.

Known for numerous hit songs such as ‘Hallelujah, Nyame Ye, Not Alone, My Story, The Name, Blessed, Promise Land and now ‘Fear No Evil’, Joseph Matthew has two awards to his credit, including ‘Gospel Song Of The Year UK’ for his hit song ‘Blessed’ at the 2023 Ghana Music Awards UK.

All of these songs will be featured on his debut album ‘Solid Rock’, which is set to be released later next year.

Joseph Matthew is known for his ability to seamlessly blend traditional gospel elements with contemporary sounds.

‘Fear No Evil’ is available on all streaming platforms.

Watch the video below:

The 2024 edition of the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards is bringing back its regional categories after putting them on hold for four years.

According to the organisers, Merqury Republic, the regional categories were rested because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The various regions were rather changed to zones: northern, central and southern.

With the latest announcement, the most outstanding DJ in each of the 16 regions in Ghana will be recognised.

The 2024 edition of the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards powered by Smirnoff, was inaugurated with a thrilling line-up of activities on Saturday, June 20, 2024.

The launch, attended by a rich spectrum of Ghana’s creative industry greats, took place at the Multimedia Group Limited premises and saw the dazzling prowess of talents in Ghana’s creative industry.

Headlined by Guinness Ghana, Ghana’s leading total beverage business, the 2024 event is cementing its status as a cornerstone for the promotion of music and the art of Disc Jockeying.

This year’s theme, United by Music, emphasizes the profound power of music to bring people together, especially in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections in Ghana. It underscores music’s role in fostering unity, harmony, and collective spirit, transcending differences and connecting diverse communities through shared rhythms and melodies.

A key highlight of this year’s line-up of events is the ‘Pub Fest,’ powered by Smirnoff, a dynamic regional roadshow designed to give DJs the opportunity to showcase their talents to diverse audience across the country.

The event launch which was broadcast live on Joy Prime TV, showcased the creativity and ingenuity within the world of DJs by acknowledging the infusion of fresh energy and creativity, reflecting the evolving landscape of music and the diverse tastes of the audience.

The primary objective of the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards, powered by Smirnoff, is to empower, educate and reward hardworking DJs who make significant contributions to the growth of the entertainment industry in Ghana and beyond. The launch will also mark the commencement of various activities leading up to the main awards ceremony.

Guinness Ghana PLC took over the sponsorship of the DJ Awards in 2023, marking a new era of support and recognition for the DJ community. Last year’s event was a testament to the company’s dedication to fostering the growth and development of the music industry in Ghana. The 2023 edition saw an array of talented DJs and artists being celebrated for their contributions to the industry, and this year’s event promises to be even more spectacular.

Yaa Amoah Owusu Marketing Manager, Guinness Ghana PLC, spoke at the launch, underscoring the brand’s aim topromote female DJs and also expressed excitement about the theme for this year’s event: United By Music. “Music has the incredible ability to unite people from all walks of life. The ‘United By Music’ theme for this year’s Guinness Ghana DJ Awards is a celebration of that unity and the diverse talents that make up our vibrant music industry. We are excited to continue our journey of supporting and empowering DJs and artists in Ghana, and we look forward to an unforgettable event.”

Like the past editions, this year’s awards promise to be better and more thrilling with the line-up activities.

The coordinator for Merqury Republic, David Quaye, pointed out ceremonies fans should anticipate as the main event approaches.

The coordinator revealed that the board has reintroduced the regional category, which was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The awards scheme recognises the efforts and hard work of DJs in Ghana and Africa at large, including the coveted Best DJ of the Year, Afrobeat DJ of the Year, Female DJ of the Year, Discovery DJ of the Year, and Event DJ of the Year, among other categories.

DJ Lord OTB won the ultimate DJ of the Year award in 2023, making him the reigning champion. Will he retain the title, or will another person take over?

The 2024 Guinness Ghana DJ Awards festival, happening on Saturday November 9, promises to be more enthralling by bringing together DJs across the world.

About Guinness Ghana PLC:

Guinness Ghana PLC is a leading beverage company in Ghana, known for its iconic brands and commitment to quality. The company is dedicated to supporting the growth and development of the Ghanaian music industry through initiatives like the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards.

The 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony is poised to be a historic event. The ceremony will take place on the Seine River instead of in a traditional stadium.

Céline Dion is also set to perform for the first time since getting diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome in December 2022. Reports say that she’ll be be joined by another musical icon: Lady Gaga.

Rumors started swirling about the artists’ involvement earlier this week after Gaga and Dion were spotted in the city of love ahead of the Summer Games. Social media videos showed the A Star Is Born actress waving to fans from her car.

On July 23, Variety reported that Dion arrived in Paris on Monday at the Royal Monceau Hotel near the Champs-Élysées, where Gaga is also staying.

On July 25, one day before millions are set to tune into the international event kicking off the 2024 Olympics, French journalist Thierry Moreau shared on X that Dion and Gaga rehearsed a duet of “La Vie en Rose” by Édith Piaf. TMZ also confirmed the news.

“La Vie en Rose,” which translates to “Life in Pink,” was performed by the acclaimed French singer Édith Piaf. Written in 1945 and released as a single in 1947, the song gained international acclaim in the U.S. and around the world.

It has been covered by many artists, including Andrea Bocelli, Audrey Hepburn, Bing Crosby, Carla Bruni, Dalida, Dean Martin, and Diana Krall, among others.

Gaga is also no stranger to performing the French ballad. She sang “La Vie en Rose” in the 2018 romance/musical A Star Is Born.

The film’s success helped her achieve a historic milestone, making her the first woman to win an Academy Award, Grammy Award, BAFTA Award, and Golden Globe Award in a single year.

South African rapper Malome Vector, whose real name is Bokang Moleli, has died in a car accident

Vector was reportedly travelling with musical collaborators Lizwi Wokuqala and Puleng Phoofolo when the tragic crash happened in the Free State on Wednesday evening

His former record label, Ambitiouz Entertainment, confirmed the news on Wednesday evening.

“With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of a shining beacon; the Lion of Lesotho’s sun has set. Our deepest condolences go out to his loved ones and industry peers during this time of profound loss,” the label stated.

The Free State Department of Health reported that three men were declared dead at the scene of an accident on the N1 near the Koppies turn-off close to Kroonstad.

Two other individuals, a man and a woman, were transported to Boitumelo Regional Hospital with injuries.

A source revealed to News24 that Malome Vector was travelling from Gauteng through the Free State to his home country of Lesotho to shoot a music video when the accident occurred around 13:00.

The vehicle he was in collided with a heavy motor vehicle.

Among the occupants were his musical collaborators Lizwi Wokuqala and Puleng Phoofolo.

Hillary Mophethe of the Free State Department of Transport indicated that a burst tyre might have caused the driver to lose control, but the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation.

A Meteoric Rise

Malome Vector’s journey in the music industry saw a significant boost when he moved to Johannesburg in 2020 and signed with Ambitiouz Entertainment.

The label discovered him through social media and facilitated a meeting in Lesotho, setting the stage for his rapid ascent.

Before gaining prominence in South Africa, Vector was well-known in Lesotho for hits like “Ichu” and “Motho Waka.”

His fame in Mzansi soared when he won a South African Music Award for Best Music Video of the Year in 2021 for a collaboration with Miss Pru and Blaq Diamond.

In 2022, he released his debut album, “Karabo,” featuring artists such as Blaq Diamond, Intaba Yase Dubai, Wave Rhyder, Sjava, Ubuntu Band, and Ntate Stunna. Speaking to City Press about the album, he said, “The album is about my story, my hustle, which includes my family, especially my daughter. It is based on my true story and my answered prayers.”

Earlier this year, Vector released a seven-track EP titled “1964,” featuring Ntate Stunna and Mlindo The Vocalist.

Music sensation, Ahmed  Ololade, popularly known as Asake, will perform for the second time at the iconic 02 Arena in London for an event slated for Sept 21.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the O2 Arena, commonly known as ‘The O2’, is a multi-purpose indoor arena in the centre of the 02 entertainment district on the Greenwich  Peninsula in southeast London.

It opened in its present form in 2007. It has the third-highest seating capacity of any indoor venue in the United Kingdom.

It is behind the co-op Live and Manchester Arena, and in 2008 was the world’s busiest music arena.

Asake, who is presently on his ‘Lunge Boy’ tour, took to his Instagram page @asakemusic to announce his second-time performance to his fans, at the highest seating capacity O2 arena with excitement for making history.

According to him, he is so excited to announce that his tour ‘Lungu Boy World Tour’ coming to city that is close to everyone.

“I’m super excited to announce that my tour ‘Lungu Boy World Tour’ is coming to a city near you. London Lungu BY is Active @theo2london Saturday 21st September, “he wrote.

In 2023,  the singer delivered a solid-out performance at the O2 arena. The show, which is scheduled for Sept.21,  happens to be a part of his highly anticipated “Lungu Boy” world tour.

His latest project, “Lungu Boy,” would be his third album in three years and fourth project since January 2022.

The “Lungu Boy” tour promises to be an unforgettable experience, with stops in Europe, America, and Australia.

The global resonance of African music continues to captivate audiences worldwide, with its vibrant rhythms and unique fusion of genres. Among the artists leading this movement is the Grammy Award-winning artist, Burna Boy.

On the 26th of July, 2024, YouTube will livestream an exclusive YouTube Music Nights presents Burna Boy. This special event will commemorate the 5th anniversary of his critically acclaimed album, African Giant.

The YouTube Music Nights program places global superstar artists on intimate stages, creating an electrifying, money-can’t-buy experience and live video content that celebrates the unique connection between artists and their fans.

YouTube is about storytelling, a platform where fans don’t just discover songs; they forge deep connections with artists. Through a blend of Performance Video, Live Stream, and Shorts content, Music Nights empowers artists to showcase their craft, stripped back and up close.

On July 26, 2024, Burna Boy, who boasts 5 million subscribers on YouTube, will grace the stage in an intimate setting as part of YouTube Music Nights. This exclusive event will see Burna Boy celebrate hits from his critically acclaimed album, “African Giant,” marking its 5th anniversary.

Burna Boy expressed his excitement about the event: “Celebrating the 5-year anniversary of ‘African Giant’ with a special performance in London, supported by YouTube Music, has been an incredible experience. This album holds a special place in my heart as it represents a pivotal moment in my career and a powerful statement of African pride. Performing these songs for my fans, who have supported me every step of the way, is a reminder of the journey we’ve shared and the cultural impact we’ve made together.

I’m grateful to YouTube Music for helping us create this memorable event and to all my fans for their unwavering support. Here’s to many more years of making music that resonates and inspires.”

“We are thrilled to present Burna Boy on YouTube Music Nights, celebrating the 5th anniversary of his groundbreaking album, African Giant,” said Addy Awofisayo, Head of Music at YouTube in Africa. “This event exemplifies YouTube’s commitment to showcasing the best of global music and connecting artists with fans in unique and meaningful ways. Burna Boy’s artistry and impact are undeniable, and we can’t wait for the world to experience this special performance.”

The content will be livestreamed exclusively on Burna Boy’s YouTube channel allowing fans worldwide to join the celebration.

With his fusion of dancehall, reggae, Afrobeat, and pop, Burna Boy is one of Africa’s most celebrated stars.

He released his full-length debut, “L.I.F.E,” in 2013 and followed this with two more albums over the next five years, collaborating with artists like J Hus, Fall Out Boy, and Lily Allen.

His album “Outside” won the Nigeria Entertainment Award for Album of the Year.

In 2019, “African Giant” marked his international breakthrough, earning a nomination for Best World Music Album at the 62nd Grammy Awards. His follow-up album, “Twice as Tall” (2020), reached #54 on the Billboard 200 and #11 on the UK Album Chart, winning the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album.

Burna Boy continued his winning streak with “Love, Damini” (2022) and earned his first #1 in the UK with his latest album, “I Told Them…” in 2023. He has also made history by becoming the first Nigerian artist to sell out the prestigious Madison Square Garden in New York and the O2 Arena in London.

Seeing this global superstar perform in an intimate 400-capacity venue will be an unforgettable experience. Fans worldwide can catch the livestream of this performance on his YouTube channel, featuring special renditions of his hits from the album

As part of this year’s World PR Day Festival, Global Media Alliance, in collaboration with Africa’s biggest music streaming platform, Boomplay, has outdoored two uniquely curated music playlists to recognise artistes who have creatively leveraged the power of public relations in their craft.

The playlists – “World PR Day Festival Jams Playlist” and “World PR Day Festival New Gen”, seek to acknowledge the contributions of both established and emerging musicians while highlighting the role of public relations in promoting Ghanaian music.

The Jams Playlist features a repertoire of hits songs from renowned artists creating a vibrant mix of rhythms and melodies that highlight the diversity and creativity of Ghana’s music industry. Artistes in this category include King Promise, Stonebwoy, Amaarae, Black Sherrif, Gyakie, Joe Mettle, Kidi, Smallgod, and Wendy Shay.

The New Gen playlist which shines a spotlight on the freshest talents redefining the music landscape features an exciting line-up of music talents whose unique perspectives are setting trends in the industry.

Artistes in this category include Arathejay, Baaba J, Beeztrap KOTM, Darkua and Ess Thee Legend. The rest are Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, Olivetheboy, SuperJazzClub, Team Eternity and 99Phaces.

Commenting on this partnership, Ekow Quandzie, Head of Public Relations at Global Media Alliance highlighted the relevance of music in shaping narratives and inspiring a new generation of communicators.

“Music has always been a powerful tool in shaping narratives and connecting people. In accordance with this year’s theme for the World PR Day celebration, ‘The Future of PR in a Changing World,’ our curated playlists reflect the evolving landscape of both music and public relations,” said Ekow Quandzie.

On his part, Public Relations Manager at Boomplay, Paul Azumah Ayitey, said, “Boomplay is committed to amplifying the diverse voices and innovative sounds that resonate with audiences across the globe. Once again, we are proud to collaborate with GMA to launch playlists that affirm the transformative power of music.

Through these playlists, we hope to provide a platform for new artists to reach wider audiences while inspiring PR professionals to embrace creativity and innovation.”

 The World PR Day Festival ‘24 and New Gen playlists are available exclusively on the Boomplay App to music lovers around the globe with easy access to the latest tunes that define the synergy between public relations and music.

The World PR Day Festival is an annual event that seeks to bring together Practitioners, Industry Players, Media, and Students to dialogue and share insights and innovative strategies to improve the industry both in Ghana and globally.

The 2024 festival which began in May took participants through several virtual sessions on Greenwashing x PR and PR Measurements x ROI. Masterlabs were also organised to equip PR professionals in Sustainability and Artificial Intelligence.

It climaxed with a summit which inspired insightful conversations on shaping the African narrative with public relations and storytelling.

Jennifer Aniston has criticised Donald Trump’s vice-presidential candidate, JD Vance, for resurfaced comments calling Democrats a “bunch of childless cat ladies with miserable lives”.

The Friends actress, 55, posted a 2021 interview with Mr Vance that has been widely shared since his selection as Mr Trump’s running mate for November’s presidential election.

“I truly can’t believe that this is coming from a potential VP of the United States,” she wrote on Instagram.

“All I can say is… Mr Vance, I pray that your daughter is fortunate enough to bear children of her own one day.”

Mr Vance has a two-year-old daughter, and two sons.

“I hope she will not need to turn to IVF as a second option,” Ms Aniston wrote.

“Because you are trying to take that away from her, too.”

‘Country miserable’

The actress has previously spoken openly about her struggles while trying to have children through in-vitro fertilisation (IVF).

Last month, Mr Vance voted to block Democrat-proposed legislation to guarantee access to IVF nationwide.

In the clip, Mr Vance criticised Vice-President Kamala Harris because she has no biological children.

Ms Harris is stepmother to her husband Doug Emhoff’s two children.

But Mr Vance told former Fox News host Tucker Carlson the US was run by “a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices that they’ve made and so they want to make the rest of the country miserable too”.

“Look at Kamala Harris, Pete Buttigieg, AOC [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez], the entire future of the Democrats is controlled by people without children,” he said.

“How does it make any sense we’ve turned our country over to people who don’t really have a direct stake in it?”

Kamala Harris’ stepdaughter, Ella Emhoff, posted a reaction to Mr Vance’s comments on Instagram on Thursday.

“How can you be ‘childless’ when you have cutie pie kids like cole and I?” the 25-year-old daughter of Harris’ husband, Doug Emhoff, and his ex-wife, Kerstin Emhoff, wrote. Cole Emhoff is her 29-year-old brother.

The BBC has contacted the Trump-Vance campaign team for comment.

‘Heartbreaking setback’

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg also addressed the comments earlier this week, speaking about adopting twins with his husband, Chasten.

“The really sad thing is he said that after Chasten and I had been through a fairly heartbreaking setback in our adoption journey,” Mr Buttigieg told CNN’s The Source programme.

“He couldn’t have known that – but maybe that’s why you shouldn’t be talking about other people’s children.”

There has also been backlash from fans of singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, who has no children – and three cats.

“It’s bold, for someone seeking votes, to hone in on ‘childless cat ladies’ when the leader of Childless Cat Ladies is Taylor Swift,” British writer Caitlin Moran posted on X.

Another X user shared the Time magazine cover where Swift posed with one of her cats, writing: “Hell hath no fury like a certain childless cat lady who has yet to endorse a presidential candidate.”

‘Zero regrets’

In 2022, Aniston told Allure she wished someone had told her to freeze her eggs.

“It was a challenging road for me, the baby-making road,” she said.

“All the years and years of speculation… it was really hard.

“I was going through IVF, drinking Chinese teas, you name it.”

But she had “zero regrets”.

“I would’ve given anything if someone had said to me, ‘Freeze your eggs. Do yourself a favour.’ You just don’t think it. So here I am today,” she told the magazine.

“The ship has sailed.”

Ghanaian singer Selasi Aklotsoe Mensah, also known as SamKcat, is calling for peace and unity in his latest song, “All I Want to say.”

The artiste, known for his Reggae/Hiplife/Afro-Dancehall style, emphasises the need for togetherness in Africa and the world in his single.

‘All I want to say’ encourages listeners to “love thy neighbour, speak truth to power respectfully, and enjoy the fruit of their labour.”

He delivers this message in multiple languages—Hausa, Twi, Ewe, English, and Ga—showcasing his cultural roots and linguistic dexterity.

With many African countries, including Ghana, approaching election years, calls for peace across the continent have deepened.

Amidst rising cases of coups and terrorism, he promotes the “See Something, Say Something” initiative, urging people to report criminal activities.

Additionally, he advocates for dialogue over violence, echoing Winston Churchill’s sentiment, “To jaw-jaw is better than to war-war,” emphasising the importance of finding win-win solutions and unity over division.

This August, Joy Prime will be premiering an all-new family-oriented fun and games show dubbed ‘Family Arena.’

Different families will battle it out through games and quizzes to win mouthwatering cash prizes and goodies from sponsors.

With Joy FM’s Drive Time presenter, Lexis Bill, as the host, the show definitely promises to be fun and exciting for the participating families.

Poised as he is, Lexis says, “Get ready for the show” and have a blast of a lifetime.

As the show approaches, entries are open for interested families to submit their applications before the show kicks off.

To participate, families are encouraged to send their family name and the first name of three (3) members of the family to the WhatsApp number, 055 157 5757.

The show will also create a platform for families who are on the verge of breaking to rebind their union and cash out the easy but tricky way.

Global Citizen, as part of its Move Africa project, has partnered some Ghanaian non-governmental organisations as it girds up to hold Ghana’s edition of the initiative this year.

Move Afrika encompasses building infrastructure for touring to attract bigger artistes to the continent and creating jobs in the live event and concert space, as well as stimulating the creator economy. This includes sectors like food, music, art, podcasting, and fashion.

Speaking to aKorfa on Joy FM’s ‘Ignition’ on Wednesday, July 25, 2024, Liz Agbor-Tabi, the Vice President of Global Policy at Global Citizen, said on the back of the great feat achieved with the 2022 Global Citizen Festival in Ghana, they intend to build on that with more impactful projects.

“Global Citizen is an advocacy organisation that exists to end extreme poverty across the world. We do that with music as our entry point but we are not just the party and we are not just the festival. We work with NGOs, we work with governments, we work with the private sector to really drive social and economic impact.

Move Africa is Global Citizen initiative and we are looking to bring that here to Ghana. And as part of that we have identified five NGOs that are working across multiple sectors, but specifically in the areas like health, women’s sexual and reproductive rights, building capacity and training, up-scaling for young people,” she said.

She added that they are going to partner these five NGOs to further their mission to create impact.

Some of the NGOs selected for this cause are Dikan Centre, Livingstone Foundation, the Alliance for Reproductive Rights, among others.

Global Citizen’s Move Afrika initiative began with an event in Kigali last December, headlined by Kendrick Lamar.

The event included various programs such as a shadowing program for young people to learn about lighting, rigging, set design, and directing, a film workshop, a food experience, and a fashion pop-up.

These activities are aimed at training and celebrating entrepreneurs while providing participants with skills applicable to other live shows.

The initiative recognizes Africa’s rapidly growing population, projected to account for 50% of global population growth by 2050. With population growth outpacing job creation, the goal is to boost the creative economy, which currently contributes about 6% to the continent’s overall economy.

In 2022, the Global Citizen Festival in Ghana featured performances by Usher Raymond, SZA, Stormzy, Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, Tems, Tiwa Savage, Yaw Tog, and DWP Academy, among others.

Move Afrika: Ghana builds on Global Citizen’s previous campaigns and events across the African continent that include: Move Afrika: Rwanda held at the BK Arena in 2023; Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100, which brought Beyonce, Jay-Z, Ed Sheeran, Usher, Eddie Vedder and Chris Martin of Coldplay to Johannesburg, South Africa in 2018; Global Citizen Live: Lagos that featured Davido, Femi Kuti, and Tiwa Savage at Fela Kuti’s New Afrika Shrine in 2021; and Global Citizen Festival: Accra, which brought Usher, SZA, Stormzy, and TEMS to the Black Star Square in 2022.

Legendary Broadcaster and host of Cosmopolitan Mix on Joy FM, Doreen Andoh, has disclosed that she does not know the nitty-gritty of working with a producer.

She said she independently produced her own shows including DJing for the first ten (10) years of her career after completing secondary school.

This makes her not understand and realise what it is like to work with a producer for the over 25 years she has worked as a media personality.

The radio goddess made this revelation during the Season 2 premiere of ‘Changes‘, which airs on Joy Prime, while responding to the question of how strict her producers were.

Read also: Celebrity-wishes troop in as Doreen Andoh turns 50

“I worked for 10 years without a producer. So, I don’t know what it is to have worked with a producer from scratch. Yes, I was my own presenter, producer, and DJ. I’ve always played my own music; I don’t have a DJ.”

She learned to do all the productions from the beginning, which she eventually got used to and enjoyed doing.

Compared to the current technological advancement in media, she said in her early days one had to be properly trained to acquire the requisite skills in production and other basic requirements that come with the job because mistakes were not pardonable.

“I learned from the get-go that we should pretty much weigh the songs we play. Songs with nude lyrics were definitely a no-no; we made sure we sampled the music before putting it on air. At that time, you also had to make sure that you were learning the songs and knowing which ones were radio edited, which means that they were clean songs. We went through training to learn pronunciations because a lot of people would ‘butcher’ the local names, and it was unpardonable, but now presenters have walked away with too much.”

Her media career was accidental because she wanted to study pharmacy, which unfortunately did not happen as lecturers were on strike and universities closed at the time.

She decided to apply for a presenter opportunity on radio since it was her hobby, but it later developed into a passion and influenced her to divert to journalism and public relations.

Due to how things started for her, she passionately learned all production techniques on the job, never bothering about getting produced.

Prince Wisdom Baako, a distinguished gospel artiste originally from Akyim Dwenase and now residing in Accra, has captivated audiences with his spiritual and transformative music.

With roots in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Baako’s journey has been marked by faith, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his calling.

Baako began his music career in 2004 and released his debut album, Mogyeme, in 2009 at the Akyim Dwenase Presbyterian Church.

The album, featuring ten tracks, gained significant attention, with the hit song “Kogyeme” resonating deeply with listeners.

Despite this early success, Baako chose to step away from music to focus on evangelism, dedicating twelve years to spreading the word of God.

Returning to the music scene last year, Baako has released an impressive seventeen songs, culminating in his latest album, ‘Mortino’.

Launched three months ago, ‘Mortino’ features twelve tracks that emphasize spiritual deliverance and breaking the yoke in believers’ lives.

This album represents a significant milestone in Baako’s career, showcasing his evolved musical style and profound spiritual insights.

“Mortino is more than just an album; it is a testament to my spiritual journey and dedication to God’s work,” says Baako. “Each song is crafted to inspire and uplift, providing spiritual keys to help believers overcome life’s challenges.”

Meanwhile, Baako’s return with ‘Mortino’ has been met with enthusiasm and acclaim, solidifying his place in the gospel music industry.

His music, characterized by its powerful messages and spiritual depth, continues to touch the hearts of many.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Baako owns a recording studio where he produces gospel songs and supports budding artistes.

Nonetheless, his work is driven not by financial gain but by a deep-seated calling to share his talents and bring out the hidden potential in others.

Prince Wisdom Baako’s ‘Mortino’ album is a powerful testament to his faith and dedication, reinforcing his role as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the gospel music scene.

His journey from evangelism back to music highlights the transformative power of faith and the enduring impact of spiritually enriched music.

Gospel artiste Broda Sammy has mentioned in a recent interview that he is ready to go into areas that are considered as ‘ungodly’ to minster through gospel music.

According to him, the essence of evangelism is to go into every corner of the world to preach the word of God for people to be saved.

In an interview with TV3, ‘The Nation’s Worshipper’ said that even if he is invited to perform in nightclubs and places where alcoholic drinks are sold, he wouldn’t hesitate to grant the invitation.

“If a drinking spot or a nightclub invites me to perform, I will hurriedly go. If any secular artiste invites me, I will go. I take the opportunity to spread the word anywhere,” he explained.

Broda Sammy said at church, everyone goes to listen to the gospel but those at the nightclubs are not there for the same reason; a reason he wouldn’t turn down an invitation to win souls in those places.

“I don’t look at people and say they are non-believers, so I won’t work with them. I see them as people. I don’t discriminate. That’s all,” he further mentioned.

He suggested that Christians should their strategy of spreading the gospel.

“Even the devil has changed his strategy, why can’t we change our strategy? The clubs where people are going to sin should be the places we should go and conduct praises and worship,” he said.

Broda Sammy is known for his unconventional and controversial style of gospel music, a feature that has generated a lot of conversation about the propriety or otherwise of his approach.

He is known for songs like ‘Masei Ho’, ‘Woye Obaatan Pa’, ‘Odo Nyankopon’, among others.

After a two-year hiatus, 3Music Awards is resuming its operations in September 2024.

The announcement of their return was made in Accra on Thursday, July 25, 2024 during a press soiree.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of 3Music Network, Rashidatu Yasmine Abdulai, breaking communication on this mentioned the amount of hard work that has gone into bringing back the scheme.

“Today, I am thrilled to announce the return of 3Music Awards in September,” she said.

“After a year-long hiatus, we have reimagined our approach to ensure 3Music Awards celebrates musical excellence and sets new industry standards. The 3Music Awards is more than an event. It is a celebration of creativity, talent and vibrant culture. This year, we are introducing fresh elements to captivate the audience and honour the artists who inspire us. Our renewed commitment is to showcase the best in music and amplify the voices of our artistes creating an inclusive and unforgettable experience,” she added.

Preceding the awards ceremony in September, there will be a nominees event in August.

In the meantime, the Board and the Academy will be going through process towards the nomination for this year’s edition.

Fast-rising talent, DJ Wallpaper’s performance at this year’s ‘Ghana Party In The Park’ held in London has been one of the highlights of the event.

The young disc jockey mesmerised the thousands of patrons at the event with his lively mixes and impeccable song selection.

With a blend of new school and old school music, he got the audience happily singing and ‘dancing the day away’ at the Oak Hill Park in East Barnet.

DJ Wallpaper known in real life as Bittor Elikem Wonder did not only excite the crowd with his session but topped it up by playing skillfully for artistes billed for the power-packed event.

He was on the turntables dishing out songs like ‘Goodsin’, ‘Asylum’, and ‘Favourite Story’ for OliveTheBoy.

DJ Wallpaper was on deck for King Paluta’s crowd-cheering tunes like ‘Makoma’, ‘Aseda’ and ‘Yahitte’ remix.

The award-winning disc jockey also played for Ghanaian songstress Wendy Shay and ‘Friday Night’ hitmaker, Lasmid.

DJ Wallpaper is expected to announce many more headline shows in Europe and Ghana in the coming days.

Inside Out 2 has become the highest-grossing animated film of all time, six weeks after it was released in cinemas.

The film, a sequel to 2015’s Inside Out, has so far taken $1.46bn (£1.13bn) at box offices worldwide.

That means it has overtaken Frozen II, which made $1.45bn in 2019.

Inside Out 2’s total is likely to rise further in the coming weeks, and it is only just about to open in Japan.

The film has also overtaken last year’s most successful film, Barbie, which took $1.45bn.

However, Inside Out 2 has not yet surpassed Disney’s 2019 remake of The Lion King, which earned $1.65bn (£1.28bn).

Technically, The Lion King is computer-generated but the studio classed it as a live-action remake, which means it is not considered an animated movie.

Overall, Inside Out 2 is now the 13th highest-grossing film of all time.

It has some way to go to catch up with the films at the top of that list – Avatar ($2.9bn, £2.2bn) and Avengers: Endgame ($2.7bn, £2.1bn).

About $601m (£466m) of Inside Out 2’s running total was made in the US, while $861m (£668m) was taken in other countries, including $61m (£47m) in the UK.

Inside Out 2 is said to have cost around $200m (£155m) to make, not including additional costs such as marketing.

Its success marks something of a bounce-back for Pixar, which has struggled in recent years to reach its previous heights.

However, that is partly due to some films being released straight to streaming services during the pandemic, when many cinemas were closed.

Inside Out and its sequel focus on a group of characters, who represent emotions, inside a head of a young girl named Riley.

In the latest film, Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Anger and Fear are joined by new characters such as Anxiety, Envy and Embarrassment, as Riley becomes a teenager.

The top 10 animated films

1. Inside Out 2 (2024) – $1.46bn
2. Frozen II (2019) – $1.45bn
3. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) – $1.36bn
4. Frozen (2013) – $1.27bn
5. Incredibles 2 (2018) – $1.24bn
6. Minions (2015) – $1.16bn
7. Toy Story 4 (2019) – $1.072bn
8. Toy Story 3 (2010) – $1.068bn
9. Despicable Me 3 (2017) – $1.032bn
10. Finding Dory (2016) – $1.025bn

The figures are not adjusted for inflation, which puts older films at a disadvantage in the box office top 50.

The family of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba popularly known as Mohbad has conducted a second autopsy to unravel the cause of his death.

The autopsy, ordered by Ms T.A. Shotobi, Magistrate of the Coroner Court, is part of an ongoing investigation into the cause of the artist’s death.

A statement signed on behalf of the family by a member of the legal team, Monisola Odumosu, said the autopsy was conducted on Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20.

Odumosu stated that the family would proceed to carry out toxicology and histology tests on the necessary samples already obtained if the post-mortem procedure failed to reveal the cause of death.

This latest development follows a court order from June 26, 2024, allowing Joseph Aloba, Mohbad’s father, to commission an independent autopsy by a licensed and certified pathologist. The court mandated that Mr. Aloba bear all costs associated with the examination, evaluation, and autopsy.

The comprehensive procedure conducted last Friday was witnessed by a limited group, including Mr. Joseph Aloba, the appointed forensic pathologist and his team, and Aloba’s legal representatives.

Wunmi Aloba, the deceased’s wife, was represented by her legal team and her appointed pathologist who observed the procedure.

The Coroner Court has emphasized its commitment to a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the cause of Mohbad’s death, aiming to provide closure for the family and maintain the integrity of the judicial process.

Further updates are expected following the completion of the second part of the autopsy, if deemed necessary.

Late Mohbad d!ed on September 12, 2023 in controversial circumstances.

The pathologist earlier employed to investigate the cause of death of late singer on May 15 told the Coroner Inquest that the cause could not be ascertained as the body had decompose before the test was carried out.

Veteran actress Auntie Bee has revealed that despite decades in the industry, she has little to show for it in terms of personal wealth and properties.

Opening up on the harsh realities of her career, she disclosed that acting was her sole career and passion, to the extent that she initially sacrificed having children for the love of the job.

Auntie Bee added that she was fully occupied with set life that she did not learn a trade or other skills; a decision that is haunting her in her adult stage.

She now recognizes the truth in the saying that “time waits for no man,” as she feels the weight of not having learned or earned anything substantial outside of her acting fame.

According to her, after over 40 years on-screen, the only thing she can boast of is fame and no material thing to account for.

Auntie Bee also noted that even her first international travel opportunity came through football, not acting, and most of the personal properties she possesses, like cars, were gifts from private individuals.

After the decline of Kumawood, she remarked that she has resorted to selling menial items to survive.

Offering advice to aspiring actors in an interview on Accra FM, she urged them to find a side job to sustain themselves for fear of the unknown.

Katy Perry’s comeback has faltered after Woman’s World, the first single from her new album, debuted at number 63 in the US chart and at 47 in the UK.

It’s a disappointing return for the pop star, who will release her seventh album 143 in September.

As well as being torn apart on social media, Woman’s World – and its video – have been critically panned, with many feeling its feminist messaging is out of touch.

The Guardian asked “what regressive, warmed-over hell is this?”, The Cut stated that “Perry is stuck in 2016”, and Rolling Stone raised the question: “Did Katy Perry release the worst comeback single of all time?”

On the song, Perry sings about women being sisters, mothers, champions, winners and superheroes all while being sexy and confident – with a catchy chorus of “It’s a woman’s world, and you’re lucky to be living in it“.

The video goes one step further, with Perry (dressed as Rosie the Riveter) and other women dancing around a construction site in tiny outfits.

Scenes from the video include the women using urinals, brandishing sex toys, and Perry being hit by an anvil – which prompts her to grow bionic legs.

There’s also an appearance from YouTuber Trisha Paytas, dragging a monster truck.

Later, in a behind-the-scenes video posted on Instagram, Perry explained that the video was meant to be “satire”, “slapstick” and “very on the nose”.

But in her review, the Guardian’s Laura Snapes said Perry was struggling to match her pop star peers at the top of the charts, such as Chappell Roan.

“Roan – along with Sabrina Carpenter and Charli xcx – is modelling how to be a pop star in 2024: they’re inventive, self-aware, silly, deep, some of the qualities Perry had at the peak of her promise but seems to have lost for ever,” she wrote.

Perry has also drawn criticism for working with producer Dr Luke on the single, particularly given that the track is about female empowerment.

Fellow singer Kesha sued Dr Luke in 2014, seeking to void their contract because, her lawyers claimed, he had “sexually, physically, verbally, and emotionally abused [Kesha] to the point where [she] nearly lost her life”.

Dr Luke denied the claims. They reached an agreement to settle a years-long defamation lawsuit last year.

When Perry announced the collaborators for her new album, Kesha – who has just released her first track as an independent artist – tweeted “lol”, widely seen as a jibe at her fellow pop star. Kesha was later pictured in a vest top bearing the same message.

With 2010 album Teenage Dream, Perry became the first female artist to have five number one songs from the same album on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.

She has also had five number one singles in the UK, but these were spread out over a decade – from 2008’s I Kissed A Girl through to Feels, her 2017 collaboration with Calvin Harris, Pharrell Williams and Big Sean.

Perry’s last album, Smile, was released in 2020 and – while it had mixed reviews – hit the top five in the UK and US. Its lead single Daisies peaked at number 37 on the UK chart.

Season 2 of ‘Changes’ on Joy Prime has captured audiences’ hearts with an exhilarating and breathtaking season premiere.

The show, which premiered on Wednesday, July 24, explored a mixed bag of media and legal-related issues, including fun and games, and a captivating studio audience.

Joy FM’s Doreen Andoh and legendary TV presenter, Eddy Blay graced the show and shared their experience in media and how it has evolved for the past two decades.

For Eddy Blay, who started with TV, technology has changed a lot of things about media with the infusion of social media as compared to their days.

“There were only three channels at the time. So, there was literally no opportunity. You had to be the best of the best to get on television. So, at that time, it was very competitive, but now it’s better for everyone because of social media and a lot of television stations. At that time, because of the competitiveness, you want to be great. You had to be different and bring something to the table,” he said.

From the radio perspective, Doreen also known as the radio goddess said radio presentation style has evolved.

“I learned from the get-go that we should pretty much weigh the songs we play. Songs with nude lyrics were definitely a no-no; we made sure we sampled the music before putting it on air. At that time, you also had to make sure that you were learning the songs and knowing which ones were radio edited, which means that they were clean songs. We went through training to learn pronunciations because a lot of people would boucher the local names, and it was unpardonable, but now presenters have walked away with too much,” she added.

Their conversation brewed the topic regarding the legal implications of foul utterances by on-air personalities both on traditional media and social media, to which Sena Hotor, a legal practitioner, gave insights with his expertise.

According to him, “There are some comments that either media personalities or guests or hosts on shows have made that have even made it very difficult for them to get representation by lawyers.”

Coupled with music and dance, the studio was lit with a magic performance by the Militant Dance Family, with Sappers Band 48 Engineer Regiment adding a twist of music, bringing out the excitement in the audience.

Catch the second episode on Friday, July 26, and learn more about how to handle changes that occur in life and interesting, shocking revelations from guests.

Join Roselyn Felli this and every Wednesday and Friday at 1 p.m.

The Ghanaian community in New York will enjoy a great dose of Ghanaian entertainment and culture at the Ghanaian Festival of Arts and Culture on August 4, 2024.

This event will take place at Earl Bales Park in North York, Toronto -Canada, promising a rich celebration of Ghanaian heritage and culture.

Organised by the Akwaaba Ghana Festival Initiative, the festival aims to bring like-minded Ghanaians together in a joyous and immersive environment. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of Ghanaian arts and culture, fostering a sense of community and pride.

The festival will feature an array of activities, including traditional music and dance performances, art exhibitions, cultural displays, and delicious Ghanaian cuisine. It is a perfect occasion for families and individuals to connect with their roots, enjoy traditional entertainment, and socialize with fellow Ghanaians.

“We are thrilled to host this event and provide a platform for Ghanaians to come together and celebrate our rich cultural heritage,” said Oppong De-Graft Amponsah member of the Akwaaba Ghana Festival. “This festival is not just about entertainment, but also about fostering unity and pride within our community.”

The Ghanaian Festival of Arts and Culture is open to all and promises to be a memorable day filled with joy, laughter, and cultural appreciation. Mark your calendars and join us at Earl Bales Park for an unforgettable celebration of Ghanaian arts and culture.

Akwaaba Ghana Festival Initiative is dedicated to promoting and celebrating Ghanaian culture through various events and activities. Our mission is to unite the Ghanaian community and share the rich heritage of Ghana with the world.

Ethnomusicologist and lecturer Professor John Collins has discounted claims that Liberians may be the true originators of highlife.

This comes on the back of several contestations of the origin of the genre which has been widely touted to be Ghanaian.

Contrary to the notion that the Kru Sailors from Liberian teaching Ghanaian guitarists how to play the western guitar with two-finger-picking technique means they introduced the genre, Professor Collins has said, that does not make them owners of the genre.

He told Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z although some Western African countries als do highlife, Ghanaians are on record to have created the genre in the 1920s.

“The Kru players developed distinct ways of playing the guitar on the high seas in the 19th century. Kru’s were recruited on board a lot of slave ships by the Europeans and Americans. So they picked up the Spanish guitar but they didn’t use the Spanish way of playing or picking the strings. They used the typical African style like King Ayisoba – the way Africans play the lute.

That’s what the Kru people spread down the coast of West Africa but it wasn’t highlife. It was a sort of an element of highlife. In Ghana, it was absorbed into the Osibisaba music and in Sierra Leone the Maringa, and in Nigeria, juju music,” he said.

Although some countries keep laying claim to highlife, people like Professor John Collins have over the years attributed the origin to Ghana in various books, workshops and documentary.

In the meantime, the United Nation’s Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation is considering listing highlife as Ghana’s intangible cultural heritage.

A few weeks ago, Ama Serwah Nerquaye-Tetteh, the Secretary General of the Ghana Commission for UNESCO, mentioned that highlife will be listed by UNESCO as Ghana’s intangible heritage soon.

This comes after series of engagements and conferences organised by the Ghana Folklore Board and the Ghana Cultural Forum to discuss plans by which Ghana’s highlife can be listed as a UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH).

An intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is a practice, representation, expression, knowledge, or skill considered by UNESCO to be part of a place’s cultural heritage.

Intangible heritage consists of non-physical intellectual wealth, such as folklore, customs, beliefs, traditions, knowledge, and language.

Intangible cultural heritage is considered by member states of UNESCO in relation to the tangible World Heritage, focusing on intangible aspects of culture.

Jamaica’s reggae and Congo’s rhumba are some music genres listed by UNESCO as intangible heritage.

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has marked a significant milestone with the commissioning of the Refurbished Salaga Slave Market and the Salaga slave wells.

The ceremony, held in Salaga, to kick-start Emancipation 2024 was graced by esteemed dignitaries including the Lepowura, representing the Kpembewura, the Minister of Tourism Arts and Culture, the MCE , the Board chairman of GTA , Mr. Seth Adjei Baah, the MP of the area and Directors of various agencies in the Savannah region.

Welcoming the guests, the MCE, Hon Richard Broni, thanked the Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture and the Ghana Tourism Authority for staying true to their word to redevelop the site when they visited the Kpembewura in 2023.

In his address, the CEO of GTA , Mr. Akwasi Agyeman emphasized the importance of the Salaga Slave Market and the Wells to the nations Heritage Tourism offerings and stressed the need for Ghanaians to acknowledge our past while looking toward a future of healing and unity.

Mr. Agyeman expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts that led to the restoration and preservation of these historical sites. He highlighted GTA’s commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural heritage.

Hon. Egyapa Mercer, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture delivered a powerful address, stressing the need to honor the memory of those who suffered during the transatlantic slave trade.

He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to promoting heritage tourism and fostering connections with the diaspora.

The Lepowura Bore-enasa I, speaking on behalf of the Kpembewura pledged the support of the Traditional Authority to preserving the site.

The producers of the much anticipated DJ Awards headlined by Guinness Ghana have opened applications for the public to file and nominate their favourite Disc Jockeys for the 12th edition.

The event was launched on Saturday, July 20 at the Joy Prime studios with more than twenty categories and a thrilling line-up of activities for the major event which comes off on November 9.

Just after the launch, the call for entries has also been announced as part of the requirements of the show.

Some of the categories include the coveted Best DJ of the Year, Afrobeat DJ of the Year, Female DJ of the Year, Discovery DJ of the Year, Event DJ of the Year, Hip Life DJ of the Year, and Highlife DJ of the Year, among others. Find the categories in the video below.

Individuals are permitted to submit all applications within four weeks as the deadline for submission is August 20.

You can visit the Ghana DJ Awards website at entry.ghanadjawards.org to nominate your favourite DJ.

The 2024 Guinness Ghana DJ Awards is powered by Smirnoff and supported by Electroland Ghana Limited (EGL), Korba, Franko Trading Enterprise, and the Ghana Library Authority. Supported by Ezzy Grab GH, Whatsup TV, and Dennis Pizza.

Other media partners include Joy Prime, Joy FM, and Adom TV.

Janet Jackson can still remember the first song she wrote.

She was nine years old and bored, one rainy afternoon in 1975.

Her older brothers – already international megastars – had just returned from an exhausting 10-month world tour. While they recuperated, there was no-one to keep her entertained.

Finding herself at a loose end, Janet sneaked into the recording studio in family’s backyard in Encino, California, and started playing a tune she called Fantasy.

“I laid down the drum track, I did the background vocals, I sang and I played everything on it,” she recalls.

With an empty day successfully filled, she left the tape on the system and went to bed, not thinking much about it.

But when she arrived home from school the following day, the song was blaring down the driveway.

“I was so embarrassed. The studio door was open and Mike was listening to it,” she says, referring to her brother Michael.

“I think Randy was listening to it, my father was listening.

“Then my father said, ‘You’re gonna sing’.

“I said, ‘No, no, no, I want to go to the college and study business law.'”

But when Joe Jackson told his children what to do, they fell in line.

“It was kind of hard [to argue] because, look at where he led my brothers,” she says.

“So I said, ‘OK, I’ll give it a go.'”

Nearly 50 years later, Janet Jackson is one of the most successful recording artists of all time.

With era-defining albums like Control and Janet, she has sold more than 100 million records, been named an MTV Icon and, in 1990, broke the glass ceiling by becoming the first woman to be nominated for best producer at the Grammys.

“That was jaw-dropping for me,” she says. “You think it should have happened a long time ago.”

We meet backstage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, where the star is about to play the 73rd show of her Together Again tour, which reaches the UK in September.

Her most successful concert tour to date, it explores Janet’s entire career, from the sweaty R&B grooves of Nasty and Rhythm Nation to seductive slow jams like That’s The Way Love Goes and Any Time, Any Place – all performed with her trademark whip-crack choreography.

On stage, she’s a commanding presence. In person, she’s shy and softly-spoken.

“I don’t like talking,” she confides. “And I don’t like interviews. I don’t think I’m very good at them.”

In the midst of a New York heatwave, this puts a chill up my spine. I’ve watched enough YouTube videos to know Janet can be awkward and distracted under the spotlight.

But the fears quickly melt away.

Today, Janet is candid, relaxed and funny – not only breaking into song, but busting out dance moves and, most surprisingly of all, joking about her ill-fated love life.

“How many times have I been married now?” she laughs. “Three, I think.”

There’s an ease that suggests the star has resolved – or at least found a way to make peace with – her battles with low self-esteem and body image.

The key, perhaps, is that she has someone else to care for.

Her first son, Eissa, was born in 2017 and is present for her New York show, standing proudly at the side of the stage wearing ear defenders.

“Being a mum is the most beautiful thing,” she says.

“I love every single minute of it.”

Eissa is now seven, the same age Janet was when she made her TV debut, appearing with her brother Randy in a comedy sketch on the Carol Burnett Show.

“I don’t ever remember being asked,” she says, a hint of sadness in her voice.

“I just remember doing it.”

Before long, she was taking roles in the TV sitcoms like Good Times and Diff’rent Strokes.

In her teens, she released her first two albums, Janet Jackson and Dream Street. One contained a surprising duet with Cliff Richard. Both failed to sell.

Then, when she was 18, Janet suddenly and unexpectedly eloped with doe-eyed soul singer James DeBarge.

Their marriage was annulled after eight months, but not before it threatened to ruin her reputation.

At the time, DeBarge was a drug addict who would often disappear for hours at a time – including on their wedding night. Janet found herself scouring the streets for him at all hours of the night and day.

“I was doing the TV show Fame at the time and I’d be late for work and hold up shooting,” she says, wincing at the memory.

“I wasn’t being irresponsible. I just felt that [James] needed me more than the show.

“I got spoken to a few times by the producers. I’m not sure they were that fond of me.”

Ferociously cool

Janet eventually asked to be released from the show, deciding to give music “one more chance”.

Rejecting her father’s preferred producers, she hired Minneapolis funk masters Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis for her next album, Control.

Known for hits like The Time’s Jungle Love and The SOS Band’s Just Be Good To Me, they teased out a new sound for the singer – full of industrial-strength rhythms and strident, assertive lyrics.

The stories were drawn directly from Janet’s life. What Have You Done For Me Lately was a sassy retort to DeBarge, while Nasty was written after Janet and her friend were harassed by a group of men on the streets of Minnesota.

The title track, meanwhile, was a defiant celebration of independence.

“When I was 17, I did what people told me / Did what my father said, and let my mother mould me / Now I know I’ve got to take control.“

Jam and Lewis helped Janet express a side of her personality – self-confident and in command – that the public had never seen before.

And they did it by getting her drunk on ice cream.

“They did!” she laughs. “I didn’t know the ice cream had real rum in it because I really didn’t drink.

“But I wasn’t like an idiot, tripping and stumbling over myself. I just felt a little woozy in the head and I was more forthcoming with my story.”

“All of the songs we did with her on Control record had attitude,” says Jimmy Jam.

“She always had a lot of attitude in the parts she played on TV and we just thought, that’s not coming out in the music. So we tried to make really aggressive tracks, really hard-hitting tracks, because we knew she could pull them off.”

Ferociously cool, Control became an MTV staple thanks to eye-catching videos like Nasty and The Pleasure Principle – all featuring Janet’s punchy choreography.

Surprisingly, she never had formal training – learning her moves from classic MGM musicals. Her only experiences of dance classes ended in disaster.

“Mother tried, when I was very little, putting me in ballet,” she says. “But I’ve got a booty. So she [the teacher] would say that I’m not tucking my butt in enough.

“Then she hit me.

“I was young. I was little. Maybe four, five. And so mother took me out.”

A second attempt at taking classes in her teens also ended badly.

“I remember that [my teacher] got a little too close to me and I felt very, very uncomfortable. And I remember coming out of the class and telling my mother and she said, ‘You’re never going back’.

“So I never really studied.”

Music industry pushback

Control was a monster, selling 10 million copies and spawning six hit singles.

For the follow-up, Janet’s label asked her to make a concept album about her family.

She entertained the idea briefly (You Need Me, a song about her difficult relationship with Joe Jackson, eventually became a B-side) but eventually rejected it in favour of the socially-conscious lyrics of Rhythm Nation 1814.

It was inspired by the dawn of 24-hour news. Janet would have CNN running in the studio, and reports about homelessness, drug crime and school shootings made their way into the lyrics.

“I was seeing things that were bothersome to me and wanting to write about [them] in the hope I could make some sort of a difference.”

Her goal, she says, was not to make political songs in the style of Tracy Chapman or U2, but to make sneak messages into music “that was really funky”.

“People would get into the groove of it, then stop and listen to what the message is and say, ‘OK, wait a minute, that’s really interesting.'”

Is she discouraged that, 35 years later, we’re still fighting the same problems?

“It’s crazy, isn’t it?” she sighs.

“Have we made some strides? Yeah, I think we definitely have. But there’s still so much further to go.”

Sexism is another topic Janet has addressed repeatedly, in songs like The Skin Game and New Agenda (“because of my gender, I’ve heard ‘no’ too many times”).

Even after the success of Control, she clashed with men who wanted to dictate her career.

“In the industry, [I was] told no, more than once. ‘You’re a girl. Girls don’t do that.’

“And I was like, ‘Well, why not? What’s wrong with trying?'”

The obvious conclusion would be that Janet got pushback when she delivered the soft, sensual and explicit Janet album as the first record of a multi-million dollar deal with Virgin Records.

But she says the label “loved” the sound and feel of songs like That’s The Way Love Goes, If and Any Time, Any Place. The Janet album – promoted with a topless photoshoot for Rolling Stone – outsold even Control, shifting more than 14 million copies.

It was the 1997 follow-up, The Velvet Rope, that caused more consternation. Dark and disturbing, it amped up the sex while addressing topics like domestic violence, depression and same-sex relationships.

The album’s lightest moment was Together Again – a bittersweet house anthem written after one of her friends died of Aids.

The lyrics aren’t particularly specific: Janet’s promise to meet again in another life works for anyone who has lost a loved one. But the track made executives jumpy.

“I think it was because of the era of Aids and all that was surrounding it. But I had lost a lot of friends and a lot of people that I knew to it – and it was heavily on my mind.

“But I never really envisioned myself singing Together Again,” she adds.

“Even though I wrote it for myself, I always thought it would be better with someone like [The Weather Girls’] Martha Wash, who had that kind of voice.”

Together Again has become her signature song. It’s her most streamed track on Spotify, as well as the title of her current tour.

The stage production may not be as expensive as her theatrical 1990s tours – with just five dancers and a minimal set – but that gives the show a more intimate feel.

Janet lets her guard down, turning her mic to the audience during Again, cheering for fans and blowing kisses as they sing along.

She also rewards them with a clutch of cherished deep cuts like Feedback, So Excited and All Nite (Don’t Stop).

They’re all late-period songs that would have received more love if the Super Bowl “wardrobe malfunction” controversy hadn’t damaged her career (Janet’s music was blacklisted by MTV and hundreds of US radio stations amidst the backlash).

One of the tour’s most powerful moments comes when she performs Scream, duetting with video footage of Michael, who died in 2009.

It’s still emotional “listening to him every night, seeing him, remembering us,” she says.

“Mike and I wrote that song in New York, in his apartment,” she reminisces.

“So [I relive] that whole journey, listening to him sing it [and remembering] what he was going through at that time.

“And just me being his little sister, always by his side, and being that support system. That’s always been my role.”

The concert wraps up with Together Again, during which Janet catches a bouquet of flowers and bounds across the stage with her dancers, beaming from ear to ear.

The audience in Brooklyn is studded with stars, including fashion designer Christian Siriano, soul singer Maxwell, drag queen Kevin Aviance and R&B star Tinashe – whose current single, Nasty, tips its hat to Janet’s song of the same name.

“Everything about her is 10 out of 10. She’s the blueprint,” Tinashe says. “A huge reference point for me. She’s such a queen.”

After the show, Janet meets fans backstage, her hand pressed to the small of her back after pulling a muscle dancing to What Have You Done For Me Lately.

Nonetheless, she’s in good spirits – looking forward to a “mummy day” between shows, and asking whether the setlist should change when she comes to Europe.

Flustered, I deflect the question by asking whether putting together the career-spanning concert has given her new perspectives on her life.

“I’m just thankful that people are still interested in seeing me do this,” she replies.

“I feel very blessed.”

The UK leg of Janet Jackson’s Together Again tour starts in Birmingham on 27 September, with further dates in London, Manchester and Glasgow.

Renowned singer KiDi is connecting with his European fans this summer as he gears up to unleash another major project.

On Saturday, July 27, the platinum-selling artist will headline a concert at Vic in Barcelona, the second-largest city in Spain.

This will be the first time the Lynx Entertainment & EMPIRE signee will be performing in Catalonia’s capital.

Before the anticipated event on Saturday, KiDi had toured Italy, Norway and the United Kingdom.

The first leg of his European summer tour commenced in Norway on June 1 with a spectacular performance at Øvre Slottsgate in the city of Oslo.

He later made a stop in London, United Kingdom, as one of the headline acts for the annual Party In The Park held at the Oak Hill Park on July 13.

KiDi’s summer tour continued in Italy on July 20, where he connected with fans in the city of Modena; capital of the homonymous province.

Music lovers eagerly anticipate the arrival of KiDi in Spain for the mega concert as he wraps up the first leg of his European tour.

The 2022 Ghana Music Awards ‘Artiste of the Year’ is expected to announce cities slated for the second leg of his European tour anytime soon.

American rapper Snoop Dogg has been named as one of the final torchbearers of the Olympic flame before Friday’s opening ceremony in Paris.

The 52-year-old will carry the torch through the streets of Saint-Denis in the north of Paris, which is home to the Stade de France Olympic Stadium, on Friday.

The Saint-Denis stretch is the penultimate leg of the flame’s journey before the relay ends at the Eiffel Tower.

The Olympic torch has crossed France since starting its journey in May and has been carried by a host of different personalities, including former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, Formula One driver Charles Leclerc and actress Halle Berry.

Snoop Dogg, whose full name is Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, was born in Los Angeles – the host city for the 2028 Games.

The US artist will be joined by fellow torchbearers in Saint-Denis, including French actress Laetitia Casta and French rapper MC Solaar.

Berlinda Gedie, a budding Ghanaian artiste known in showbiz as Shylar has announced the release of her latest EP, ‘First Face’.

‘First Face’ is a masterfully crafted EP that takes listeners on a journey through the depths of human emotions.

It features Eno Barony and Kwesi Amewuga. With its lush soundscapes, haunting melodies, and poignant lyrics, this EP is a true masterpiece. 

Shylar weaves a lasting tapestry that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Shylar drew inspiration from her own experiences with love, loss, and self-discovery. 

“I wanted to create an EP that captured the essence of the human experience,” she explained, adding that she experimented with different sounds and styles to create a unique relatable landscape that would transport listeners to another mood.

To celebrate the release of ‘First Face’ Shylar will be embarking on a national tour, this week. 

Fans can also expect a series of music videos and behind-the-scenes content to be released across my social media platforms Shylarmusic in the coming weeks.

‘First Face’ is a must-listen for fans of Highlife, Afrobeats, Dancehall among other music. With its stunning production, raw emotion, and unforgettable melodies, this EP is sure to leave a lasting impact.

The EP is out on all digital streaming platforms get ready to experience the magic of Shylar.

Listen to the song here:

Grammy Award-winning gospel group, Maverick City Music, has included a concert in Ghana on their highly-anticipated Kingdom World Tour.

The contemporary worship music collective will perform in Accra, at the ICGC Christ Temple East (Teshie Rasta Road), alongside legendary gospel singer Kirk Franklin, on Sunday, August 18, 2024.

According to the organisers, the Accra concert is a remarkable worship experience, designed to connect thousands of worshippers and gospel music enthusiasts with God through powerful and soul-stirring performances.

“We are thrilled to bring Maverick City Music and Kirk Franklin to Ghana,” said the organizers.

“This concert promises to be a night of profound worship and spiritual encounter, as we come together to lift our voices in praise and seek a deeper connection with God,” they added.

The Kingdom World Tour is a transformative global worship movement, uniting worshippers in a powerful spiritual experience.

With a mission to foster spiritual renewal and unity, the tour offers an unforgettable encounter with God through soul-stirring performances and heartfelt lyrics.

The Accra concert marks a significant moment in the tour, as it brings the group to the vibrant and diverse worship community in Ghana.

Maverick City Music has garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative approach to worship music, blending contemporary sounds with traditional gospel elements.

The group has amassed a huge following across Africa in recent times, with their success stemming from their songs of faith, inspiration, and their innate knack for breaking the unspoken rules that exist in the CCM and Gospel world.

In Ghana specifically, they command a significant fanbase, especially among young Christian audiences.

Meanwhile, Kirk Franklin launched his career in the early ’90s, leading the Texas-based choir The Family.

With a career spanning over 30 years, Franklin is widely credited with helping to shape modern gospel music.

Renowned standing as a leader of urban contemporary gospel choirs has crowned him a champion of the genre.

He’s reigned atop the Top Gospel Albums chart more than a dozen times, delivering scripture-tinged lyrics for his projects and contributing touching outros to popular artists’ projects dabbling in the gospel genre.

Music producer JMJ, was a recording artiste at the initial stages of his music career, before later transitioning into music production.

JMJ, Born Joshua Raphael, has said that he grew up in a Christian family so he was groomed in the church band which game him the opportunity to learn how to play various musical instruments.

According to him, he later developed the knack to compose his own music.

He told Joy FM‘s entertainment journalist Kwame Dadzie on Showbiz A-Z that it was his engagement with KK Duah and Appietus at Case Frequency that birthed his interest in making beats than singing.

“I was a church boy so the music I wanted to do was gospel but I was a complete R&B boy. I loved Brian McKnight, name them,” he said.

He mentioned that he would always listen to Kofi Kum Bilson and Doreen Andoh play foreign songs, record them on a cassette and and try to play the keyboard along.

JMJ indicated that after Appietus had recorded his demo song for him at KK Duah’s Case Frequency studio, he developed the knack for music production.

“I thought I would just record my demo and then move on to me being an artiste but I fell in love with the process of creating music so much that I ignored my singing. What really became the interest was being a part of the compostion,” he said.

Talking about how he finally got employed at Case Frequency as music producer, JMJ said after getting his demo recording done, he kept going to the studio and KK Duah wondered why I was frequenting the place. Later, he got employed there after Appietus had left.

JMJ who has worked as a music producer for about two decades has produced music for artistes such as Stonebwoy, Kaakie, Samini, Sarkodie, Obrafour, Ghetto KB, Jah Lead, among others.

Highlife musician Bisa Kdei has released visuals for his single titled ‘Medaase’.

The song which was released in March 2024, has garnered massive streaming numbers.

Bisa Kdei has responded to his fans’ request by dropping a classic visualiser for the song.

In the intriguing plot of his latest masterpiece, ‘Medaase’, which means “I’m Grateful” in English, Bisa Kdei expresses gratitude to God for a successful music journey thus far.

The video also featured the likes of Shatta Wale, Gh Kwaku and Gh Hyper who also expressed their gratitude to God for his blessings and the beautiful moments of stardom.

Bisa Kdei released the ‘Medaase’ song back in March as part of celebrations marking another year of life and musical excellence.

The visualiser is available on YouTube while the single can be streamed across various streaming platforms.

On Wednesday, July 24, 2024, Joy Prime will start airing the Season 2 of its lifestyle show dubbed ‘Changes’.

The programme will be hosted by Roselyn Felli, who is also a co-host of the station’s morning show, Prime Morning.

The second season of ‘Changes’ airs on Wednesdays and Fridays at 1pm on Joy Prime.

On ‘Changes’, Roselyn Felli explores stories of individuals who as a result of crisis, choice or chance, turned their lives around for the better.  It will also highlight how to handle changes that occur in life.

The show comprises intriguing conversations, live performances and shocking revelations from guests. 

Roselyn Felli brings to bear her experience as a fantastic host, making the show entertaining, while engaging guests with her spontaneous wit.

The award-winning TV personality, has promised that the second season of ‘Changes’ will be more revealing and educative. 

According to her, “if you are not getting the results you want from your hustle then you definitely need a change.”

Musician KK Fosu has addressed online criticism regarding his absence at the funeral of blogger John Claude Tamakloe, who passed away after involving in a car accident which included him and highlife singer Bless as they both recovered from their injuries.

Over the weekend, John Claude was laid to rest, and many Ghanaians were shocked to notice that KK Fosu and fellow accident survivor, highlife singer Bless, were nowhere to be found. 

This triggered a social media backlash, with many people criticising them for being heartless and not taking the time to support John Claude’s family, especially since they were all involved in the same accident that claimed his life. 

However, KK Fosu has now come out to defend himself, noting that he did not know John Claude well, as they only met on the trip. He also claimed that John Claude’s family did not inform him about the funeral. 

In an interview with Adom TV, KK Fosu defended himself, saying he didn’t know John Claude Tamakloe well, as they only met on the trip. He also claimed that John Claude’s family didn’t notify him about the funeral.

“I didn’t know the young man well. We only met on the trip. The family also neglected to reach out to me after the accident”, he explained. 

He also accused Elorm Beenie of spreading false rumors that he deliberately didn’t attend the funeral. 

“Desist from tarnishing my image because I’m innocent. I’m concerned about the damage these false reports have caused to my reputation reporting. Let’s end the spread of misinformation”, he warned.

Eminem’s 12th studio album, “The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce),” has debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, unseating Taylor Swift’s “The Tortured Poets Department” after 12 weeks.

In its first week, “The Tortured Poets Department” hit 891.34 million album streams stateside, according to Luminate, the biggest streaming week for an album in history.

Swift’s album debuted at No. 1 in April and held the top spot for three months. She is the only woman to have done so; Swift beat the previous record held by Whitney Houston’s 1987 album, “Whitney.” It spent its first 11 weeks at No. 1.

“The Tortured Poets Department” tied Morgan Wallen’s 2023 album “One Thing at a Time,” which also debuted at No. 1 and stayed there for 12 consecutive weeks. (It would later remerge at the top spot, spending 19 weeks total at No. 1.)

The only album to outperform them is Stevie Wonder’s 1976 masterpiece, “Songs in the Key of Life.” It spent 13 weeks at No. 1 after debuting in the top spot; 14 weeks there in total.

“The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)” is Eminem’s 11th No. 1 album. “The Tortured Poets Department” dropped to No. 4 as a result. In the second slot is K-pop boy band ENHYPHEN’s “ROMANCE:UNTOLD” and irreverent country Zach Bryan’s “The Great American Bar Scene” is at No. 3.

Dancehall Queen,  Aklerh is getting ready to light up Le Shrine inside Laboma Beach with a performance on Saturday, August 3, 2024.

Known for her energetic dancehall artistry and unique voice, Aklerh’s shows are always a feast for the senses, blending powerful vocals with high-energy dance routines.

This performance follows a remarkable year for Aklerh, who was recently crowned Female Dancehall Artiste at the maiden edition of the Ghana Reggae Dancehall Awards. 

Her achievements reflect her dedication to her craft and her undeniable talent, making her a standout figure in the Ghanaian music scene.

According to Ghanaian International star Reggie Zippy, he believes “she will be the face of Ghanaian and African dancehall music with her talent. I am still monitoring her growth and progress, I think she has the fighting spirit to succeed.”

The event will feature special guest performances by some of Ghana’s finest talents, including Kojo Kombolo, Konkarah, Osagyefo, and Ras Kuuku. These artistes, known for their own vibrant styles and musical prowess, will join Aklerh in delivering a night filled with rhythm, beats, and positive vibes.

As the reigning dancehall queen, Aklerh’s message is clear. She says, “My music is to celebrate life and positivity because my performances are not just about the music but also about creating an uplifting and joyous atmosphere that resonates with my fans.”

For those seeking an elevated experience, a VIP package is available on demand, offering exclusive access and premium benefits.

Join us at Le Shrine inside Laboma Beach on August 3 for a night of spectacular performances and unforgettable moments.

Aklerh and her talented friends are ready to make this a night to remember.

The Rastafari Council, Ghana, is set to hold a grand celebration in honor of the 132nd birthday of Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia. 

The event will take place on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at Rising Phoenix, Akuma Village, Accra. The occasion promises to be a vibrant mix of music, culture, and powerful speeches.

The celebration will feature performances from renowned artistes such as Konkarah Jah Vybes, Osagyefo, Kojo Kombolo, Aklerh, and Sancious Queen. DJs Nature Wan and Ras Nene will keep the vibes high, spinning conscious reggae and dancehall tunes throughout the evening.

Our esteemed MCs for the night, Culture B and Ruff Ringo, will guide us through the festivities, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees. 

The event will also feature insightful speeches from distinguished guest speakers Djabi, Jah Gold, Empress Safy, and Daddy Bosco, who will share their perspectives on the legacy of Emperor Haile Selassie I and his impact on the Rastafari movement and beyond. Special Guests include International Sound System Operator, Stuart Brown aka African Star and veteran reggae personality, Black Santino.

The celebration takes place on Tuesday, July 23, 2024  from 6:00 pm at the mecca of reggae music in Ghana, Rising Phoenix aka Akuma Village, Accra.

The Culture Commissioner for the Rastafari Council, Ghana Ras Korby Hingere Gaere noted, “It will be an evening of unity, reflection, and celebration as we pay tribute to a remarkable leader and icon adding that, “this event is free and open to the public, and we encourage all to come and be a part of this significant celebration.”

The Rastafari Council, Ghana which was established in 2009 is dedicated to promoting the teachings and legacy of Emperor Haile Selassie I and advocating for the upliftment of Rastafari in Ghana. 

Through cultural events, educational programs, and community outreach, the council seeks to uplift and unite the Rastafari community and all those who appreciate the values of peace, love, and unity. 

The Council comprises various Rastafari mansions including Ethiopian World Federation (EWF), Twelve Tribes of Israel (TTI), Ruutz International and Baifikrom Nyahbinghi House.

Ghanaian hiplife artiste, Kaakyire Kwame Fosu, popularly known in showbiz as KK Fosu, has clarified his intent to perform at the 2024 TGMA after his accident that claimed the life of a blogger, John Claude.

In an interview with DJ Slim on Daybreak Hitz, KK Fosu shared his intention to honour the legendary Amakye Dede, even if it means performing in a wheelchair.

In an interview with DJ Slim on Daybreak Hitz, the musician said he received a call from Andy Dosty about honouring the legendary Amakye Dede. “I will sit in a wheelchair,” he said.

Although KK Fosu’s doctors and management team were against the idea, he planned on honouring the legend. He always wanted to use the platform to declare his comeback and first appearance after the accident.

“Because it was to honour Amakye Dede, even in my sickness I said I will go, they should give me a wheelchair and I will sing for the man to know highlife is not dead, that was my motive,” he noted.

He elaborated that he does not care if John Claude is dead, “I can decide to go and perform and take my money I don’t care if John Claude is dead and so what?”

KK Fosu continued to express his real nature stating that Ghanaians hate on you when you are real.

“Either you hate me or not you can’t do anything to me because I have God,” he said.

Detailing the performance to honour the legendary Amakye Dede, he explained that he managed to convince his management and began rehearsing Amakye Dede’s songs.

The musician recalled receiving a call from Andy Dosty on the morning of the awards night. “There has been a new development, he said from Andy Dosty”.

The artiste said, stating from Andy that Amakye Dede was concerned about his involvement in an accident and there was a life lost and if he should perform the fans would assume he is not concerned about the demise of John Claude.

The tragic accident that claimed Claude’s life occurred on Saturday, May 25, 2024.

John Claude was travelling with KK Fosu and Bless to perform at a wedding ceremony when their Toyota Camry collided head-on with a Benz.

The driver of the Benz attempted to overtake another vehicle when the crash happened. While KK Fosu and Bless both sustained broken legs in the incident, John Claude tragically lost his life. He recalled speculation about him dying during the accident and assumed appearing on stage to surprise fans who thought he was dead.

“That night people will cry and thank God because they have seen I’m not dead,” he concluded.

Following backlash after his interview on Hitz FM, explaining why he was absent from publicist John Claude’s funeral, highlife musician KK Fosu has rendered an apology.

The musician in a statement released on July 22, 2024 reiterates the details of the accident that claimed the life of John Claude and indicates that he was pained after hearing people blame him for the incident.

He however notes that he is sorry for his comments on Hitz FM which may not have gone down well the the family of Claude and the general public. 

He also calls on the police to expedite investigations into the unfortunate incident.

Earlier on, KK Fosu had responded to criticism  regarding his absence from the funeral of publicist John Claude Tamakloe, who passed away a few weeks ago, in the accident involving KK Fosu and ‘Chocho Mucho’ singer K Bless.

KK Fosu and K Bless, had since the incident, come under flak for not calling on phone the family of the deceased to commiserate with them or attending the funeral which was held on Saturday, July 20, 2024.

Some friends of John Claude Tamakloe including Eric Toscar, Elorm Beenie and music producer JMJ, took to social media during the weekend to register their displeasure at the situation.

However, speaking to DJ Slim on Hitz FM, KK Fosu said he was not given prior notice of the funeral. He also indicated that he had not fully recovered from injuries he sustained from the accident.

The ‘Anadwo Yede’ singer added that he was also disappointed in the family of Claude who were only concerned about his inability to attend the one week observance ceremony of the deceased publicist and not about his state of health and K Bless’s.

“I didn’t know about his funeral. None of the family members told us about it. I also sustained injuries and I am still receiving treatment. So it was not compulsory for me to attend the funeral. I was not the one that killed the boy. It was just nice if we all came together but if you are angry with me, I don’t know what will happen to me I come to you. I would never allow any of my team members to represent me,” he said.

He also mentioned that contrary to comments that he took Claude to the event, he only met the deceased on their way to the said event.

The accident occurred on Saturday, May 25, 2024, on the Accra-Apam Highway road when KK Fosu, K Bless, Claude and others were going for a wedding event.

John Claude Tamakloe was laid to rest at Tema Community 2 on July 19, 2024.

Ghanaian musician, Siicie has linked up with Olivetheboy for groovy new single ‘Waste.’

The Afrobeats song drops alongside sunny visuals.

‘Waste’ is a pleasant surprise! It is the kind of collaboration you fall in love with on your first playthrough, and rightly so. Siicie and Olivetheboy instantly captivate the senses. Their lush voices blend with Mix Master Garzy’s well-crafted production to create an irresistible melody.

Siicie, in particular, could disrupt the charts this time around. His graceful performance has already garnered half a million streams and is reminiscent of the buzz his previous single ‘Talk to Me’ received. Olivetheboy is right behind, impressing with his charm.

Director Skygee takes charge of the video. In all simplicity, he beautifully captures the vibrance of the two crooners as they wear their hearts on their sleeves. The choice for a relaxed house party setting creates fewer distractions, giving the two artists a good opportunity to connect with their audience.

Siicie has been one of the hottest prospects in Ghana lately, and ‘Waste’ is another reminder of what he can do. The fast-rising singer has been a constant force since 2022, unleashing well-received singles like ‘Troubles,’ ‘My Side,’ ‘Tonight,’ and more. Siicie is managed by DeepLive Africa and NK Salem Records.

Two up and coming artistes, Afiba and Kwaku Hydro have been selected by Celestine Donkor, as winners for her ‘Come and See’ open verse challenge.

Afiba did her rendition in Nzema while Kwaku Hydro rapped in his performance. 

As part of completing the purpose of the project, Afiba and Kwaku Hydro have been featured on a remix of ‘Come and See’ which is due for release on July 26, 2024. 

In the remix of the song which enjoins people across the world to behold the wonderful things God does for humankind, Celestine comes in with different melodies, still communicating to the theme and proving his versatility in her craft. 

The ‘Come and See’ open verse challenge generated a lot of excitement on social media as hundreds of musicians and music lovers proves their musical prowess by doing their verses on the song. 

The original ‘Come and See’ song is the second in the series of features that Celestine has lined up with her colleague female gospel artistes in Ghana and beyond.

According to her, the move to feature these artistes is to foster stronger bonds between the other female gospel musicians, something that is hardly seen in the gospel music industry. 

The much-anticipated Adamfopa Talent Quest Show, which aimed at uncovering the hidden creative talents of young Ghanaians and Africans living in the diaspora, was successfully launched last week in Paris, France.

Abrewa Nana, also known as Dorcas Opoku-Dakwa, gave a live performance during the launch.

At the launch held at the Voco Paris Intercontinental Hotel in Paris, Nana Obokese Ampah, Apagyahen of Asebu Traditional Area, was unveiled as the Cultural Ambassador of the Adamfopa Talent Quest Show.

Several dignitaries in attendance at the ceremony urged the organizers to take the show on a global scale.

The talent search was created by Adamfopa Media Paris’s operators, Groupe Adamfopa Services, based in Paris, with the goal of identifying, supporting, and advancing talented African and Ghanaian artists residing in Europe.

Yaw Asamoah Bannor, General Manager of Adamfopa Media, stressed during the launch that the goal of the reality show is to reconnect African-American youth living in Europe with their culture, customs, and way of life.

This includes helping them to develop and promote their African heritage, particularly those who were born and raised in the diaspora.

He claims that the competitors will display their skills in acting, dancing, poetry, music, and other artistic or entertainment categories during the event.

The primary goal of the competition, according to Yaw Asamoah Bannor, better known by his stage name Wofadinho, is to provide gifted young African and Ghanaian youngsters in Europe greater chances.

Although happy with the attendance, the general manager of Adamfopa expressed sadness that some brand ambassadors and invited guests, such as Jupitar, Samini, Pinky Pecks, and the dancing duet Allo Danny and Serwaa, were unable to attend because of complications with their visa appointments.

According to Wofadinho, the winner of the competition will get the chance to collaborate on a song with well-known Ghanaian artistes and perform alongside a foreign act at the event’s conclusion.

He continued by saying that interested parties can register and choose their categories on the Adamfopa Media website. Based on their inventive performances, which are evaluated by a jury and chosen by the crowd, contenders go through different stages.

The Adamfopa Talent Quest Show is organized by Groupe Adamfopa Paris in partnership with RAM Media Concepts and is sponsored by Tap Tap Send and Accord Sante.

Highlife musician KK Fosu has responded to backlash regarding his absence from the funeral of publicist John Claude Tamakloe, who passed away a few weeks ago, in an accident involving KK Fosu and ‘Chocho Mucho’ singer K Bless.

KK Fosu and K Bless, have since the incident, come under flak for not calling on phone the family of the deceased to commiserate with them or attending the funeral which was held on Saturday, July 20, 2024.

Some friends of John Claude Tamakloe including Eric Toscar, Elorm Beenie and music producer JMJ, took to social media during the weekend to register their displeasure at the situation.

However, speaking to DJ Slim on Hitz FM, KK Fosu said he was not given prior notice of the funeral. He also indicated that he had not fully recovered from injuries he sustained from the accident.

The ‘Anadwo Yede’ singer added that he was also disappointed in the family of Claude who were only concerned about his inability to attend the one week observance ceremony of the deceased publicist and not about his state of health and K Bless’s.

“I didn’t know about his funeral. None of the family members told us about it. I also sustained injuries and I am still receiving treatment. So it was not compulsory for me to attend the funeral. I was not the one that killed the boy. It was just nice if we all came together but if you are angry with me, I don’t know what will happen to me I come to you. I would never allow any of my team members to represent me,” he said.

He also mentioned that contrary to comments that he took Claude to the event, he only met the deceased on their way to the said event.

The accident occurred on Saturday, May 25, 2024, on the Accra-Apam Highway road when KK Fosu, K Bless, Claude and others were going for a wedding event.

John Claude Tamakloe was laid to rest at Tema Community 2 on July 19, 2024.

Veteran highlife musician Amandzeba has spoken about the seeming nonchalance of Ghanaians in helping promote and preserve Ghana’s highlife music genre.

He told Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM‘s Showbiz A-Z that although highlife is rich in Ghanaian culture and has the potential to represent the country globally, Ghanaians seem to have failed in projecting it.

He made this comment while discussing UNESCO’s move in to list highlife as intangible cultural heritage. 

“Collectively, we seem to have failed. We normally trivialize our heritage, everything. The Chinese can make our kente, they can do anything at all with our own heritage and then we sit in silence and keep admiring them while we know that we have the thing and must be developed here.

It’s just like music. When we had highlife, right from the outset, it affected everybody along the coast even all the way to Zaire, Congo and other places. Take the likes of Fela Kuti, Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela. They were here [because of highlife],” he said.

He also recounted that a lot of music stars across the world keep asking what Ghanaians are doing to project the highlife genre. 

According to Amandzeba, while National Folkore Board is working at making UNESCO list highlife as intangible cultural heritage is commendable, the media must also take the responsibility to make sure the genre lives on. 

A few weeks ago, Ama Serwah Nerquaye-Tetteh, the Secretary General of the Ghana Commission for UNESCO, mentioned that highlife will be listed by UNESCO as Ghana’s intangible heritage soon. 

This comes after series of engagements and conferences organised by the Ghana Folklore Board and the Ghana Cultural Forum to discuss plans by which Ghana’s highlife can be listed as a UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH).

An intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is a practice, representation, expression, knowledge, or skill considered by UNESCO to be part of a place’s cultural heritage.

Intangible heritage consists of non-physical intellectual wealth, such as folklore, customs, beliefs, traditions, knowledge, and language.

Intangible cultural heritage is considered by member states of UNESCO in relation to the tangible World Heritage, focusing on intangible aspects of culture.

Jamaica’s reggae and Congo’s rhumba are some music genres listed by UNESCO as intangible heritage.

The City of New Britain, Connecticut, will be playing host to a special partnership led by BIDEC INC and the Premium Talent Management Group in collaboration with the Greater New Britain Chamber of Commerce, the New Britain Arts Council, Connecticut Central University, the District of New Britain, and many more, is excited to announce the Grand Launching Ceremony and Symposium of the Global Goals Arts Festival.

This highly anticipated event will take place at the Trinity on Main from September 12t to 14, 2024 as a Side Event to the upcoming United Nations General Assembly.

The Global Goals Arts Festival aims to celebrate and promote the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through diverse artistic expressions.

The festival will serve as a crucial platform for fostering cultural ties, sharing artistic expressions, and covering significant stories that resonate with our global audience.

The Organizing Committee and BIDEC Inc.’s proven track record in successfully executing similar events ensures that this festival will be both impactful and memorable.

“The Global Goals Arts Festival is crucial for fostering cultural ties, sharing artistic expressions, and covering significant stories that resonate with our audience,” said Collin Osborn, the Organizing Lead for the Festival.

He added “Our aim is to create a platform for cultural exchange and community engagement, celebrating the power of the arts in promoting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.”

A member of the Board of Directors of the Greater New Britain Chamber of Commerce and member of the Organizing Committee, Eric Williams during a press engagement in New Britain, stated that the Festival is a great opportunity for cultural exchange between America and its partners such as Africa, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean.

He further stated that this would serve as an opportunity develop the tourism and hospitality industries of Connecticut.

The Chairman of the New Britain Arts Council and the Lead for the E Games Program of the Central Connecticut University stated that, the University will be leading the charge in working with the E Games Organization of the City to ensure the young one and students have additional fund and educational components attached to the main event as a means to groom the youth.

The involvement of BIDEC INC and PTMG will significantly enhance the festival’s ability to reach and inspire a broad audience, especially from Europe, the Caribbean and Africa. Their participation is expected to contribute to the cultural and economic enrichment of New Britain, Connecticut, and extend its impact to the rest of the world.

The Grand Launch and Symposium is expected to have attendance from dignitaries attending the UN General Assembly in New York, Government representatives, artists, cultural groups, business owners, the academia, City Officials and industry groups.

There will be special appearances and performances from artists and groups from Ghana, Senegal, Mauritania, South Africa, Eswatini, Benin, Italy, and the Bahamas etc.