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Kuami Eugene has done nothing wrong – Jacob Kwaku Gyan writes

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Many people have criticised Kuami Eugene for releasing “confusion”, a song that is believed to be a remix of an original by Sidike Diabite. Albeit I concur that the song by the lynx entertainment singed youngster is indeed a cover of Sidike’s “Fais mois Confiance”, I believe Eugene has done nothing wrong in making this beautiful song for the gusto of his fans and Ghanaians at large.

First, there are over dozen copyright laws that may prevent an artist from putting up a remix. However, standard industry practice and conventions give room for an artist to take inspiration from another’s creativity but ought to give due credit to the original creator of the piece. The emergence of remixes is not a new practise in the music industry across the globe.

I hope you enjoyed the hit single by Sean Kingston titled “Beautiful girls”. Oh! I bet you didn’t know that it was a cover of Ben E. king’s Stand by me. Did you bash The then 17 year old Kingston for that amazing creative work? Kingston used Ben E. King’s riddim to express his high school self-pity, warning a possible girlfriend that her good looks will make him want to kill himself if they break-up. Teenage angst paid off well, though: The song went to Number One on three continents. Ben E. King’s stand by me has been remade in different genres by Legendary acts like John Lennon, Junior Murvin, Maurice White, R – Kelly, U2 and Bruce Springsteen. In recent times, former Disney star, Miley Cyrus cut lyrics from “Stand by Me” into the chorus of “My Darlin’,” she and the perpetually Auto-Tuned Future rhyming the older song’s title with a promise to make a movie in the 3D and had contributions from Pharrel, Dr. Luke and Mike Will I am. So Miley and Future did a perfect collabo as remix. Even the Greatest, Muhammad Ali took a shot at recording an amazing version of the same song.

The just ended Grammy awards also nominated many songs that were covers of other songs. In fact, the album of the year won by Bruno Mars had all the songs in it sampled from originals by other musicians. And oh! My very own favourite musician of all time Jay Z sampled “Bam” from Sister Nancy’s 1982 hit rock on the 4:44 album. The album had the highest number of nominations at the Grammys this year. The album that got most people dancing around the world, Grateful by DJ Khaled. The timeless song , “Wild Thoughts “ which features “Bad Gyal” Rihanna and “Kojo fine boy” Bryson Tiller is just another good sample of Santana’s “Maria”. I bet you never knew ?

As I mentioned earlier, there are copyright laws regarding how to go about a cover of someone’s creative work. I am not a lawyer so I would not dare into explaining those laws. I would leave that to my dearest , Annica Nsiah-Appau, wife and manager of Okyeame Kwame.

To the fans and lovers of kuami Eugene, keep supporting the young talent. He has caused some “confusion” with his new song but give him a break, he’s done nothing wrong.

Jacob Kwaku Gyan
International Music Promoter/ Fmr Project Manager of Okyeame Kwame


Miss Ghana Foundation supports cost of surgery of a 13 year old girl suffering from Scoliosis

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Miss Ghana Foundation, the Charity Arm of the Miss Ghana brand has donated $5000.00 to the Foundation of Orthopedics and Complex Spine (FOCOS). Scoliosis is a medical condition in which a person’s spine has a sideways curve.

The curve is usually “S”- or “C”-shaped. In some, the degree of curve is stable, while in others it increases over time. Mild scoliosis does not typically cause problems, while severe cases can interfere with breathing. In most cases causes unknown except for main conditions of cereal palsy and muscular dystrophy.

The donation is a first instalment to commence surgical procedure for a teenager suffering from scoliosis and an extreme orthopaedic ailment; out of a total cost of $15,000.00.

The beneficiary, 13 year old Gifty Amuzu is living with a life threatening condition called TB Kyphosis of the Thoracic spine which will require urgent surgery to save her life or it will paralyse her soon. Her condition was noticed five years ago while in primary school. All efforts by her mother to curb this deformity proved futile. Currently, Gifty has dropped out of school due to the intense pain in the back which causes her to loose concentration in class. She is unable to sit, stand or walk for long periods and also cannot perform simple house chores. She feels stigmatised, sad and often isolates herself in social gatherings. Gifty Amuzu enjoys singing and aspires to become a soldier in future.

She caught the eye of the Miss Ghana Foundation recently when the Foundation’s current Ambassadors Miss Ghana 2017 Margaret Dery, her runner ups Pricilla Gameli and Marigold Frimpong visited the FOCOS Hospital as part of the Miss Ghana Foundation’s charity plans for the year.

Presenting the donation, Chairwoman of the Miss Ghana Foundation Ms. Inna Patty reiterated that, Miss Ghana Foundation was passionate about health, especially that of less privileged children. She commended the efforts of the queens and a good Samaritan for the donation thus far. She appealed for more support to complete the surgery by the end of this month of Love, February 2018.

On their part Miss Ghana 2017 Margaret Dery and her runner ups recounted how they raised funds through the Miss Ghana Kids Bazaar event, some corporate institutions such as Nasco Ghana, Brommon, Crystal Capital and Investment limited and other fund raising drives at Accra Mall, ANC Mall and Tang Palace Hotel.

Receiving the donation on behalf of 13 year old Gifty Amuzu, the nursing director of FOCOS Hospital Miss Jemima Owusu, expressed gratitude to Miss Ghana Foundation.

“We are happy to see the Miss Ghana Foundation helping to put a smile on the face of Gifty; thereby helping her fulfil her dreams of going back to school and becoming a soldier one day. Even though her case is a serious one she has been on the waiting list for weeks now, hoping for some assistance somehow. I appeal to everyone, corporate bodies and individuals to join in this good deed so that the full cost of the surgery would be covered” She said.

The Medical Doctor on Duty Dr. Gerhard Ofori Amankwa, Director of Medical Services, used the opportunity to reiterate that such conditions are not hereditary nor a curse. As such, society should show more love by supporting such patients.

Dancehall bad girl Ebony is dead

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Twenty-year-old Dancehall star, Ebony Reigns, has been confirmed dead in a car crash at Mankranso in the Ashanti Region.

Ebony, real name Priscilla Opoku-Kwarteng, was returning from Sunyani in the Brong Ahafo Region when the Jeep she was travelling in crashed into a VIP bus on Thursday evening, according to police.

Ebony was travelling with three other people, and two of them have also been confirmed dead. The two include a young lady, Ebony’s assistant, and a man in military uniform believed to be a soldier.

The driver of the Jeep survived the crash, but is currently unconscious and receiving treatment, according to police.

The Divisional Commander of Mankranso, DSP John Adusei, confirmed the accident to Citi Newsnarrating that Ebony was on her way from Sunyani where, “at the intersection of the road between the Nsuta and Bechem junction, [her car] collided with a VIP bus which was also coming from Kumasi towards the Sunyani direction.”

“…so three of them passed on. Now the bodies are at Mankranso. We have a morgue here so we have deposited the bodies over here,” DSP John Adusei added.

No causalities have been recorded from the VIP bus.

Ebony’s passing comes on the back of a stellar 2017 where she rose to superstardom in Ghanaian popular culture.

The singer was discovered by renowned music entrepreneur Bullet of Ruff n Smooth fame in 2015, when she sent in a demo. She was signed to Bullet’s Rufftown record label a day after.

Known for her risqué onstage acts and vivacious performances, Ebony captivated Ghanaians with her hit singles which included Maame Hwԑ, Kupe, Poison and Sponsor.

She was widely tipped to be the Artiste of the Year at the Ghana Music Awards in April 2018.

Below is a video of Ebony believed to have been taken hours before her fatal car crash.

By: citifmonline.com

Efya weeps for Ebony

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Ghanaian singer, Efya burst into uncontrollable tears on GHOne TV on Friday, when she attempted to talk about Ebony on live TV.

Death of the sensational singer, Ebony has been devastating and unbearable to say the least.

During the interview with the host of the Rythmz LIVE show, Efya said..“for strength for everybody” following Ebony‘s death on Friday.

She told Jason El-A on Rythmz Live On GhOneTV Friday afternoon, she hopes that people can do the best before they leave the earth.“I pray for strength for everybody. For her family, my condolences.” expressed the ‘Forgetting Me’ crooner. “I pray that we can do as much before we go and that we can do our best in everything because God gives us the strength… and everything will be okay.”

Watch the video below.

DStv Eutelsat Star Awards 2017 – Closing Date for Entries Extended to 1 March! 

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Good news, students will now have until Thursday, 1 March 2018 to enter the 2017 edition of DStv Eutelsat Star Awards competition. The closing date has been extended to allow science and technology fans between the ages of 14 and 19 have extra time to be inspired to write a creative essay or design a poster.

This year’s topic is “It’s sixty years since the first satellite, Sputnik, was launched, broadcasting a unique and easily captured ‘beep, beep, beep’ signal. Looking back at this historic moment, write an essay or design a poster depicting how satellites have launched humankind into the 21st Century and acted as a unifier.”

Follow us on our brand new Facebook page and get the latest news and useful tips on how to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip by entering the 7th edition of the DStv Eutelsat Star Awards competition.  The essay winner will be eligible for a trip for two to Paris, France in the company of Eutelsat, and onwards to French Guiana to see a rocket launch into space. The poster winner will win a trip for two to South Africa which includes a visit to the South African National Space Agency as well as exploration of several heritage sites as guests of MultiChoice Africa. The schools attended by the two winners will also receive a DStv installation, including a dish, TV, decoder and free access to the DStv Education Package.

 The DStv Eutelsat Star Awards competition is open to all learners from secondary (high) or combined schools on the continent where MultiChoice Africa maintains operations. Entry forms can be obtained from any MultiChoice Resource Centre, the nearest MultiChoice office or via www.dstvstarawards.com. Entries are accepted in English, French and Portuguese and will be judged on the basis of high-standard criteria of accuracy, creativity, originality and innovation. For the first time this year students are also invited to engage with the Awards community through a dedicated Facebook page.

 The competition closes on 1 March 2018. Only entries submitted on the official entry form will be eligible. The overall winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in April 2018.

 

ATWAG mourns Ebony and charges government to fix bad roads

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The Executive and members of the Arts and Tourism Writers Association of Ghana (ATWAG) wish to express our deepest condolences to the family, management and fans of dancehall artiste, Priscilla Opoku Kwarteng aka Ebony as well as the families of her two friends who died through a fatal road accident on Thursday, 8th February, 2018.

Indeed, this is a great loss to the arts industry considering Ebony’s exceptional talent and phenomenal achievements in her short music career.

It is sad to note that Ebony and her two friends met their untimely demise through a motor accident, which has become one too many. We plead with the government to, as a matter of urgency, fix the country’s bad roads which are claiming precious lives and also hindering the national domestic tourism promotion drive.

As we mourn our departed star, we also advise drivers and motorists to be extra careful on our roads.

Finally, we urge the media to act with a high sense of professionalism in reporting on issues relating to Ebony’s demise to preserve the dignity of the departed while ensuring that the emotions of the affected families are not bruised.

May the souls of Ebony and her two friends rest in perfect peace.

About ATWAG

The Arts and Tourism Writers Association of Ghana (ATWAG) is an association of Ghanaian arts writers/journalists and media workers.

ATWAG seeks to promote arts and tourism reporting in Ghana while developing the professional capacity and the welfare of its members.

ATWAG is also aimed at promoting co-operation and collaboration among its members and players in the arts, tourism and culture value chain.

Signed: Kwame Dadzie
(Public Relations Officer-elect, ATWAG)
Tel: 0242778469, 0208156974
e-mail: kwamedazzy@yahoo.co.uk

Statement: Zylofon Media CEO Nana Appiah Mensah speaks on Ebony’s “Bail Out” tweet

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The Chief Executive Officer of Zylofon Media Nana Appiah Mensah has as promised, clarified issues regarding his tweet and Instagram post which has generated controversies in the media space especially on social media platforms.

In his first tweet where he talked about a successful meeting with the late “Maame Hwe” hit maker, it reads “we had a fruitful meeting and reached an agreement just last Tuesday. “Please help me pay him for my bail out. I want to be free”. I hope you`re free now and finds absolute peace in the bosom of the almighty God. Let`s pay CRITICAL ATTENTION to our female artistes. #RIPEBONY”

This obviously did not go down well with many social media followers so the man who has promised to fix the industry with his might promised to clarify the tweet on a radio platform to settle the confusion arising from his words. In an interview with Samuel Atuobi Baah aka Sammy Flex who doubles as the Communications Director of Zylofon Media on Zylofon 102.1 fm Showbiz Agenda, Nana Appiah Mensah who goes by the moniker NAM explained that, he did not mean harm or disrespect to any one in his tweet.

“Yes, I had a meeting with Ebony on Tuesday and sadly, that was the first time we met and last time we spoke. It was a possible signing discussion with an artiste which is the first stage to determine the artiste`s interest or otherwise. In our discussion, she emphasized and it was agreed that before she goes out of the contract, she has to satisfy a termination clause in the contract by paying her record label Ruff Town Records an amount of USD$100,000 of which Zylofon Media was ready to fulfil. That was what she termed as a bail out and there was no way we could do that without reaching out to Ruff Town Recordz. The emphasis I wanted to draw was even about the need to pay attention to female artistes; rendering them support and advantage on grounds of affirmative action in their professional endeavours, that I captured in CAPS which went unnoticed but I consider that a normal tendency. I respect all talents in this industry as well as all managers and record labels, I very much appreciate their toils and sacrifices, so under no circumstances would I bully or disrespect any of them. It`s the same process I go through with all our artistes and their managers, so that should be kindly and humbly noted. I pray for strength for her family and the entire Ruff Town Record label as they go through these hard times to manage the demise of their super star Ebony. May her soul rest in perfect peace!!!

The citing of the quotation was my expression of pain, over the fact she had a WISH of which she couldn’t wait to be fulfilled. Just as others are expressing worry over her purported wish to pick up awards.

There’s nothing wrong in stating that, she had this wish or that wish and hoping that wherever she is she finds fulfillment”.

VIDEO: Creative Arts Minister and Industry players visit Ebony’s dad, government to support the funeral

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The government of Ghana in collaboration of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) and Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) will support Ebony’s funeral.This was announced by the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Hon Catherine Afeku when a delegation visited Ebony’s dad Mr Opoku Kwarteng.

The Delegation included Hon Catherine Afeku, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, CEO of Ghana Tourism Authority Akwasi Agyeman; Hon Godfred Same deputy AG and del Minister of Justice, MUSIGA President Bice Osei Kuffour, 1st Vice Rev Dr Yawson; Director of Communications and Special Projects, Ahuma Bosco Ocansey; Rex Omar chairman of GHAMRO, Diana Hopeson and Bandex also of GHAMRO and Bola Ray, CEO of EIB.

Also present were Ebony’s manager Bullet, Nero X, KK Fosu and other musicians. The one week celebration for Ebony takes place on February 18.


Veteran actor Super OD is dead

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Veteran actor Asonaba Kwaku Darko, popularly known as Super OD, has died.

The actor passed away on Tuesday, February 13 at the Swedru Government Hospital in the Central Region.

The 84-year-old veteran actor had been out of the public’s eye for some time due to his illness and had been living in Agona Swedru.

Simon Darko, son of the veteran actor, confirmed the sad news to Myjoyonline.com.

According to him, his late father “wasn’t feeling that well” and was rushed to the hospital on Saturday, February 10, but was confirmed dead around 7:15 am Tuesday.

Super OD, who started acting in the 1970s, gained national prominence in the 1990s for roles in popular series, Akan Drama on Ghana Television.

He was part of the Oppong Drama Group which later became known as Osofo Dadzie Group.

In November last year, former President Mahama, after the Unity Walk by National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Cape Coast, visited his ‘friend’ to check up on him.

The former President was in the company of some members of the NDC including Allotey Jacobs, Central Regional Chairman; Ade Coker, Greater Accra Regional Chairman; Nana Oye Lithur, former Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection; and actor Clement Bonney (Mr Beautiful) when he visited Super OD.

Allotey Jacobs, on behalf of the former President, presented an undisclosed amount of money to the veteran actor.

In July last year, before former President Mahama’s visit, the leadership of Ghana Actors Guild paid a visit to the actor and presented a mobile phone and an undisclosed amount of money to him.

That delegation included the Guild’s President, Samuel Fiscian; Welfare Officer, Secretary, Ziggy Netteyson; and Kalsoume Sinare.

Simon Darko said his late father left behind at least 13 children.

Source: Myjoyonline

TV Africa here to beat competition to be number one

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“We are here to beat competition and to be number one.” Ekow Blankson the Managing Director of TV Africa said in an interview at the maiden edition of the station’s morning show, Breakfast Live.
Mr Blankson promised viewers and stakeholders “excellent” television with the relaunch of TV Africa’s programme line-up.
When asked what prompted the relaunch by Obuobia Darko-Opoku on Breakfast Live, the MD said, “we listened, it took a bit of time, but we listened” and though it took time the new TV Africa is ready to beat its competitors.
He added that, what TV Africa is doing is unprecedented plus people want to see something different and that is exactly what they intend to give viewers.
As a member of Groupe Ideal known to have a mark of excellence, the new TV Africa stems from excellence and the station has a great vision to go global with rich contents to give viewers, stakeholders, and friends the best of television.
TV Africa is currently on the analogue and digital platforms, Mr Blankson added in his interview that the station will expand its coverage to the other regions. “
Source: Ama Nunoo/TV Africa

TV Africa

TV Africa

GoldKay Out With ‘You Remind Me’ featuring B4Bonah

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Ghanaian born UK-based afrobeat musician, GoldKay is out with a new banger, “You Remind Me” featuring B4Bonah.

The song which talks about GoldKay’s dream girl is produced by Guilty Beatz and released under Gbevu Music Group.

It is GoldKay’s first release in 2018 and it was released on Friday February 16 together with a video directed by Thephotograherx in the UK.

The song portrays a guy who sees a girl for the first time but believe this girl reminds him of a girl he once knew… in a dream. He feels an instant connection between him and the girl… Just like the one in his dream… but Can this dream be made a reality?

Both GoldKay and B4Bonah brought their talent to bare on the song.

Born Nana Kay Agyekum, GoldKay is a semifinalist of Britain’s Got Talent 2013 Season 7 who has featured on a number of UK TV shows and reality shows including BBC Altogether Now.

He is one of the most talented Ghanaians in the UK making Ghana proud out.

 

VIDEO: D-Black releases video for ‘Nobody’ featuring King Promise

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Valentines Weekend just got better with the release of the highly anticipated “Nobody” music video by D-Black featuring King Promise.

“Nobody” was one of the singles on his recently released “Hunger and Thirst Mixtape” which boasts equally compelling songs featuring Kuami Eugene, Sarkodie, Mayorkun, Ycee, Darko Vibes and more.

The Black Avenue Muzik boss features Ghana’s fastest rising star King Promise who drops his melodious voice on this tune to make an instant smash hit. “Nobody” was directed by Gyo of Phamous Philms and produced by Rony Turn Me Up for Black Avenue Muzik.

Watch NOBODY by D-Black ft. King Promise here:

 

“I said Ebony is in heaven because …” – Dr. Lawrence Tetteh

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Economist and Founding President of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach Dr. Lawrence Tetteh has opined that 20-year old dancehall diva Ebony Reigns is in heaven with her maker.
The renowned evangelist who made his stance known on Breakfast Live with Obuobia Darko–Opoku on TV Africa disclosed that his thirty five-minute encounter with the sultry songstress, which occurred 72-hours before her untimely death was poignant because he personally led Ebony Reigns to Christ. This he believes, would ultimately make a remarkable difference on where she spends eternity.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3I4-5qFoGFM
Dr. Tetteh’s comment was a follow up to the huge media publicity of the sudden death of the Ruff Town records signee, amidst the negative reportage and comments attributed to her care-free lifestyle, provocative dress code, sexual disposition and the sultry kind of music she churns out.
“I said Ebony is in heaven because if going to heaven means knowing the Lord as your personal savior then she did it. The impact of the encounter was very strong and you know there are some people that God loves – there are some people who you will meet in heaven and be shocked.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehtVg1C2zxo
Dr. Tetteh further elaborated that “Within that 72 hour period after she (Ebony Reigns) had accepted the Lord, for all you know she made it up with her god, she accepted Christ and I personally led her to the Lord, that is something nobody can take from me’’
Dr. Lawrence Tetteh cautioned Ghanaians to be more chary and careful with the handling of the death of Ebony and the others, [Frank Kuri & Francis Atsu]
“We should be very mindful as a nation and be circumspect with the way we handle things especially in the case of Ebony. We need to be sensitive because three people died and I say that today when I leave here I am going to be looking for the families of the remaining two people to also go and express my condolences to them.” he concluded.
Friends and family of the late Priscilla Opoku-Kwarteng will observe a remembrance party in her honor on the day she was supposed to have turned 21.
Nonetheless, a one-week commemoration of her death will be held at St. Martin De Porres school in Dansoman, a suburb of Accra on Sunday.
Breakfast Live shows every weekday from 6am to 9am on TV Africa and also on DSTV and GOTV on channels 362 & 175 respectively.
Source: TV Africa

Dr. Lawrence Tetteh and Ebony

Don’t abuse Prophetic Ministry – Dr. Lawrence Tetteh

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Renowned International Evangelist and Founding President of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach Dr. Lawrence Tetteh has decried the rampant rate of abuse plaguing the prophetic ministry in Ghana.
The Economist (Dr. Tetteh) who made his first TV appearance on the all new TV Africa morning show, Breakfast Live, expressed his utmost disgust and disappointment at the way some so-called “prophets” claimed to have the spirit of prophesy.
In a heart-to-heart chat on Breakfast Live with anchor, Obuobia Darko-Opoku, the man of God revealed that having the word of knowledge and spirit of discernment does not automatically make one a prophet.
“In the bible there are 9 gifts of the spirits and the prophetic ministry is one of them. However, I must cautiously say this, that a lot of people who call themselves prophets who are really not prophets. Having the word of knowledge and spirit of discernment doesn’t automatically make you a prophet.”
Dr. Lawrence Tetteh further clarified the difference between major prophets and minor prophets. “In the old testament we have major and minor prophets. Who do you think is a major prophet, he quizzed?”
“A major prophet is one who wrote volumes! Jeremiah wrote few chapters, Nehemiah…Isaiah wrote some long chapters. Minor prophets are like Obadiah and Micah who wrote one chapter or Joel who just wrote three chapters. Now the reason we have major and minor prophets is because in the olden days if you gave false prophesy, you will be stoned.”
“However in this day and age we have the freedom to do whatever we can and it is very sad that genuine prophets who are in Ghana, Nigeria and within West Africa who have the prophetic calling have been undermined.” He added.
His comments come at the heels of the sudden death of 20-year old dancehall diva, Ebony Reigns and the prophesied death of dancehall king, Shatta Wale.
Dr. Lawrence Tetteh who is a member of the Christian Council of Ghana has been an evangelist for more than 3 decades and actively served God as a preacher since 1986.
Apart from his calling as an evangelist Dr. Lawrence Tetteh lectures in Economics, Econometrics and International Relations in Universities and colleges around the world.
Breakfast Live is one of the most outstanding morning shows in Ghana currently and one of the latest additions to the all-new entertaining programming lineup on TV Africa. Breakfast Live is dedicated to giving viewers the most exciting content ranging from politics, to entertainment, health, wellness & sports, lifestyle and many more.
Breakfast Live shows every weekday from 6am to 9am on TV Africa and also on DSTV and GOTV on channels 362 & 175 respectively,
Source: TV Africa

Does a woman’s body count matter? #SeriousBanta

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Watch as the cast of  #SeriousBanta featuring media personality Taje Prest, popular photographer Demilade Roberts, Papa Omisore to name a few discuss the issue of sexual body count. In this video, the debate is on as some of the men seem to believe that a lady’s body count will be an issue if she has been with a number of men. The women argue that this is a double standard.

 What are your thoughts?
To catch more episodes on the series, visit www.arcadiamobiletv.com

BBC launches two services for Nigeria; Igbo & Yoruba

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BBC Igbo and Yoruba services launched today, two of the 3 new languages to be launched by the BBC for Nigeria and the West and Central Africa region. These services are part of the largest investment in the BBC World Service since the 1940s and are funded by the UK government.

The Igbo service is mainly for audiences in eastern and south eastern Nigeria as well as the large Igbo speaking diaspora. The Yoruba service targets south west Nigeria, Benin and Togo as well as other parts of the diaspora. These fully digital services will include exciting short format audio, video, graphics and illustrations.

Twice daily, the teams will produce an episode of BBC Minute – keeping people in touch with the world in 60 seconds.

The editorial agenda will reflect not only balanced impartial news, but also a rich mix of trending topics, sports, entertainment, business, health, education and women.

There will be original content through our network of reporters on variety of stories and issues that matter to local people and resonate across the region.

Digital content created daily for the website and social media platforms, will cover a broad agenda with a strong focus on audience interactivity. This is in keeping with the BBC News editorial strategy of not only being news providers but also providing enriching analysis, explainers and features.

As Editorial Lead on the project, Peter Okwoche says “Both services will concentrate on original journalism from their target regions but will also feature stories from Africa and the main global stories. BBC Igbo & Yoruba will provide a platform for debate on the main issues of interest to audiences and give voices to a wide spectrum of people. There will also be a strong focus on women.”

Head of West Africa, Oluwatoyosi Ogunseye says, “Delivering content and engaging with the Igbo and Yoruba audiences in their mother tongues is authentic, exciting and refreshing. The BBC is passionate about original journalism that adds value and this is what we want to achieve with these services. These platforms will deliver independent, objective and original news to meet the needs of our audiences in Nigeria and West Africa.”

Punch Touring bringing Romain’s Lovesick Tour to the UK

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Punch Touring prides itself as the premiere booking agents for touring reggae acts in the United Kingdom.
Since its inception, the company has worked with a long list of acts from Jamaica and the Caribbean.  Now, the company is pulling out all the stops for the Romain Virgo Lovesick UK tour. Accompanying the former Digicel Rising Stars winner on the trek is rising reggae singer Sevana.
Ammo Talwar MBE , CEO of Punch Touring, has seen first hand the development of reggae acts in the UK over the years. He has high hopes for Virgo’s first major outing.
‘This is guaranteed to be a prestige tour. Both Romain and Sevana will be performing with full bands and bringing a particular style of music for their fans’, said Talwar.
Virgo will be promoting his new 17-track Lovesick album, due for release March 30 by VP Records.  The singer is well-known on the UK lovers rock scene for his string of hits which have become staples on FM radio.
The tour is scheduled to start on April 4 in Birmingham and wrap on April 8 in London.  Other dates include April 5 (Manchester), April 6 (Leeds) and April 7 (Cardiff).
‘We have worked with a lot of reggae and soul artistes over the past few years including Tarrus Riley, Julian Marley, Kabaka Pyramid, Jesse Royal and artistes such as Angie StoneAmerie and Janet Kaye among others’, said Talwar.
Talwar also shed some light on the growth of the tour scene in the UK.
‘Reggae artists in the UK are always developing new audiences, especially with the online and streaming support, whilst touring in the regions and obviously London is healthy.  Dancehall artists are also making major moves into mainstream festivals creating new pathways for emerging artists to follow’.
Punch Touring has offices based in Birmingham and London. There are plans to bring other established and emerging acts from Jamaica later this year.
 
CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS
 

6TH APRIL – LEEDS – WARDROBE

 

Ko-Jo Cue, Shaker, Kwesi Arthur narrate black history in “Up & Awake” video

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Ko-Jo Cue and Shaker have finally dropped the official music video for “Up and Awake”.

The song was taken from the BBnZ Live label duo’s joint project “Pen and Paper” and it features Tema-based rising musician Kwesi Arthur.

The video directed by Esianyo Kumodzi gives an account of black history.

Scenes of activities reminiscent of the transatlantic slave trade which spanned from the middle of the 15th century to the end of the 19th century are displayed in the video.

Enjoy the full music video below and don’t forget to share your candid views with us.

 

All the photos from Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

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“I and my wife realised that the conversations around Val’s days were becoming more of sex, condoms and Viagra use. We, therefore, decided to change the narrative by asking couples to now flaunt their lovers in a much positive way,” Okyeame explained.

When Hiplife musician Okyeame Kwame announced some weeks ago that the tickets for his ‘Flaunt Your Lover’ event were being sold for GHc 500, GHc 400 and GHc 250, many were probably the critics who thought the pricing was a bit on the high side.

But as it turned out on Friday when the event finally came off at the plush Alisa Hotel at Ridge, Accra, many are now applauding the musician and his wife, Annica, for pulling off such an experience and charging less.

From the amazing food and drinks served, to the spectacular music performances, to the colourful ambience, to the wonderful guest prizes, to the intimate interactive sessions that punctuated the night’s experience, one cannot shudder to think of the event as probably the best Val’s Day event this year.

With a décor setup that blended tradition into sensuality, the organisers successfully transformed the poolside of Alisa Hotel into an epic ambience that did not only set the mood for a memorable evening, but also signalled to arriving guests the unlimited possibilities they had signed up for.

The night, however, would not start without the guests taking turns to pose for the camera with the Rap-Dacta (and in some case, his wife) at a specially-designed photobooth sited at the entrance to the venue for the event. The requests of camera-shy patrons who called for privacy, were also respected.

As the guests were ushered to their seats and served some wine, water and bars of chocolates, Okyeame Kwame, sporting an all-red suit, gave a brief welcome address to kickstart the event which lasted for four hours.

Music Performance

Starting the activities for the night was a performance by Okyeame Kwame and the Patch Bay Band, followed with another sterling performance by the songstress Alamisi.

The MC for the event, the ever-interesting Kabutey Ocansey, also added his bit to the musical broth when he, as part of his introductory remarks, gave an astounding rendition of the late Highlife legend, Paapa Yankson’s song, ‘Tena Me Nkye.’

But that was not all; the tall list of performers included contemporary Higlife singers Akwaboah, Kuame Eugene, Kidi and Kwaku Afro. To say that these performances drew the guests onto the dancefloor, would be an understatement.

Kuame Eugene’s ‘Confusion’ and ‘Angela,’ Kidi’s ‘Odo’ (a.k.a 30 million) and ‘Say You Love Me’ and Kwaku Afro’s ‘Awulaa’, simply got many of the guests sweaty.

Okyeame Kwame’s concluding performance, in which he delivered some of his hit songs like ‘Faithful’, ‘Small Small’, ‘Anaa,’ and ‘Medo Mmaa,’ also caught many couples dancing the night off.

Buffet

Adding to the experience was the two-course dinner which saw the guests serving themselves from the incredible list of wines and healthy dishes prepared by the Group Executive Chef of Alisa Hotel, Mr Livingstone Asikoye.

For instance, on the menu (for starters) were offerings such as sumptuous seafood salad (a.k.a Be Mine), refreshing mix green garden salad (with pita bread), darling oriental chicken (with noodles salad), cosy assorted breads and dressing, ravishing continental salad bar, ‘I Miss You’ condiments and crudités, and ‘most beautiful’ sauces and dips.

Two kinds of soup were also served; namely the heartfelt sea food bisque soup, and the intriguing traditional goat light soup.

For the main course, guests had the opportunity to serve themselves the following: alluring chicken and vegetable jambalaya, affectionate coloured jasmine rice, charming spicy homemade jollof rice, dazzling rosemary sautéed potato, ecstatic crispy pan seared grouper (with basil tomato sauce), pretty tossed beans and carrots (with sweetcorn), gorgeous penne pasta, and forever fresh pepper tomato sauce (with shito).

Added to these was an active station that served ‘passionate’ soft fried kelewele, valentine fried yam, rosy barbequed tikka chicken, goat kebab (a.k.a I’m Yours) and exotic roasted guinea fowl.

For the dessert, the guests were treated to delicacies such as fresh fruits platters and kebabs, ‘kiss me’ red velvet cake, beautiful black forest fruit cake, sparkling assorted tiger nuts pudding, lovely ‘nkate’ cake and ‘kube’ cake, as well as a ravishing chocolate mousse obsession.

It was simply a romantic sight to behold as some male guests took the trouble to serve not only themselves but their female partners, in the spirit of the affectionate love that valentine’s day epitomises.

Prizes

Some couples also won amazing prizes from a draw which their tickets entered them into.

For example, the management of Alisa Hotel, represented by the Managing Director, Mr. Samson Masha, awarded a couple with weekend stay at the hotel, and another couple with a night stay.

The CEO of Galaxxy Perfumery (in the Accra, Achimota and A&C malls), Dr Asante Appiah, also awarded a guest, Ms. Uche, with a designer perfume. The management of Total Fitness Health Centre (inside A&C Mall) also awarded some guests with some free months’ subscription at their state-of-the-art gym.

Interactive Session

The night, perhaps, would not have been complete without the interactive session which the MC, Kabutey Ocansey, led the guests into.

Amidst laughter and surprises, the event saw some guests answering questions about their partners which they least expected, as some male guests also received plaudits for rendering love poems and acapellas for their partners.

For instance, questions such as ‘what is the bra size of your partner?,’ ‘what colour of dress was your partner wearing when you first met?’ and ‘what was your partners’ nickname at senior high school?,’ elicited interesting answers which set the night agog.

Testimonials

Some guests who spoke to this reporter after the event could not hide their delight and satisfaction.

“In all honesty, I thank my wife for buying the ticket and bringing me here. Even that, I almost didn’t come because I am not the outing type. But I think Okyeame Kwame and his team have done well by giving us this incredible experience tonight. Hopefully next year, I will be the one buying the ticket and pulling my wife along,” Mr. Kwame Baah Acheamfour, a Deputy Director at the National Communications Authority (NCA), said.

Another guest, Mrs. Gloria Afare Quist, a staff of the Cocoa Processing Company, added: “I have really enjoyed tonight. It was awesome; great settings, great music, great food. I feel good to have come and to associate with the event.”

Background

Flaunt Your Lover’ is an exclusive annual dinner and music event started last year (2017) by renowned musician Okyeame Kwame and his wife, Annica

According to Okyeame, the rationale behind the event was to re-orient the minds of lovers and couples about the celebration of Valentine’s Day.

“I and my wife realised that the conversations around Val’s days were becoming more of sex, condoms and Viagra use. We, therefore, decided to change the narrative by asking couples to now flaunt their lovers in a much positive way,” Okyeame explained.

The maiden edition was held at the Silverbird Cinemas & Lounge inside Accra Mall, which also registered a huge patronage of both married and dating couples.

This year’s event was organised by Okyeame and Annica in collaboration with Alisa Hotel. Other partners included EIB Network Ghana, Galaxxy Perfumery, Total Fitness Health Centre, Santeshair, Biegya Bitters and Mefscuisine.

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

Okyeame Kwame’s ‘Flaunt Your Lover’

2018 Ghana National Parade Committee Inaugurated in New York City

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On Tuesday February 6, 2018, the Deputy Ambassador in Charge of Consulate Affairs in the USA, Prof. (Emeritus) Dr. Samuel Amoako swore in the initial members of the new 2018 Ghana National Parade Committee to oversee the historical annual event in New York City. The parade and picnic will be held on Saturday August 4, 2018 at Crotona Park, Bronx, NY.

The Committee of volunteers is charged with ensuring a unified, glorious, and fun-filled Ghana parade and picnic that will showcase the best of Ghana’s culture, talent, industry, and food. All Ghanaian organizations and associations are welcome to work together under the umbrella of the Ghana Consulate. The co-directors will be the National Ghana Parade Council (NGPC) and the National Council of Ghanaian Associations (NGOGA).

The annual Ghana Parade was originated by NGPC which has spearheaded the annual event in New York City for the past nine years.  NGPC is credited with drawing in the Ghanaian youth, young adults, and large crowds from far and near to its annual event.  Similarly, NCOGA is widely known for convening the annual Ghanaian Picnic which had attracted Ghanaians and fellow residents of the tri-state area – New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. The vision of Dr. Samuel Amoako is that the two organizations, most associated with the annual event would combine their expertise, supported by others, to raise Ghana’s banner even higher.

This collective effort of Ghanaians will be overseen (as co-organizers) by the 2018 Ghana National Parade and Picnic Committee. With an open invitation to others to join later, the following individuals and their organizations were sworn in: Catherine Cudjoe, Mohammed Mardah (NGPC), the Reverends Ernest K. Asare, Dr. Samuel Acquaah Arhin, and Samuel Nana Opoku (Ghanaian Ministers Fellowship International); Nana Dabanka (Star 100, NY), Ms. Florence Ofori (Ladies’ Organizations);  Jerry Kwabena Adinkra (Ghana Heritage Brooklyn); Fred Ansong-Dwamena, and Patrick Gyan (NCOGA); and Dr. Kofi A. Boateng (Ghana Chamber of Commerce USA, elected Chairman of the Committee). It is anticipated that representatives from the following organizations will join to make the event a truly all-Ghanaian super cultural activity: Ghana Chamber of Commerce USA, Association of Ghanaian Lawyers of America, Hotel Workers Association, Ghana Orthodox Churches. Ghana Doctors Association, GaAdangbe Council, Ghanaian Heritage Committee and all others.

Mr. Sam Aboah, founder of NGPC said that he cherishes the opportunity to work with all the Ghanaian associations as it has been his dream since being taken as a young boy by his father to an NCOGA-sponsored durbar. The current NGPC president Catherine Cudjoe welcomed the opportunity to work with NCOGA and interested organizations on this unifying event. Mr. Fred Ansong-Dwamena, current president of NCOGA, welcomed the collaboration, especially with their attraction to the Ghanaian youth. Dr. Boateng (chair) hopes that this will be a small step towards Ghanaian assertiveness and self-discovery to benefit the future through cultural and political awakening.  Dr. Amoako (Dep. Ambassador) concurred with all comments and added that as a past Executive Secretary General of NCOGA, it is his delight that that the Ghana National Parade is being reborn and posited on a stronger platform that will lead to socio-political involvement by Ghanaians in the USA while affording our youth opportunities to imbibe their culture.

A website for the 2018 Annual Ghana National Parade will be launched in early March 2018 (www.ghanaparadecouncil.org). In the meantime if you need information, please contact Samantha Udondem -Secretary (914-338-9361info@ghanaparadecouncil.org or Dr. Kofi Boateng-Chair (914-907-0633kofi.aboat@gmail.com).

The Committee has set up three committees: Community Outreach (chaired by Catherine Cudjoe),  Logistics (chaired by Jerry Adinkra), and Fundraising (chaired by Nana Dabanka). The next meeting will be on Thursday March 1, 2016 at 6:30pm at the Ghana Consulate (19 E 47th St., NY, NY). Jump in. There is plenty of room for us to make something big by us.

Honor through Unity.

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