EISH!!! SARKODIE AND EL NOMINATED FOR 2013 GHANA GOSPEL INDUSTRY AWARDS

Nominations are out for this year’s edition of the crowning event of Ghana’s gospel music industry, the Ghana Gospel Industry Awards (GGIA). The event celebrates and rewards excellence in the gospel music industry.

The 2013 edition of GGIA comes off at the National Theatre on Sunday December 22, 2013.

A total of 18 outstanding artistes will be honoured for their contribution to the growth of Ghana’s gospel industry over the past years and will also showcase the cream of Ghana’s gospel artistes.

Organisers have released a short code – 1736 – for the general public to choose their favourite artistes in the nine (9) public voting categories.


Below is the list of nominees.
PUBLIC VOTING CATEGORIES

*New Artiste of the year

Patience Nyarko – te twere wo & ye fre no Jesus – [1PN]
Ernest Acheampong – Pegya Me Kosoro/Wo daso ye Nyame – [1EA]
Mabel Okyere – Bibihiami – [1MO]
Miriam Afari – Ashase Nyame – [1MA]

*Album of the year –
Joyce Blessing – heavy price – [2JB]
Ernest Acheampong – wuda so ye onyame – [2EA]
Cynthia Maccauley – Wait – [2CM]
OJ – Nokoa Sem – [2OJ]

*Song of the year
Joyce Blessing – Monko moakye – [3JB]
Nicholas Omane Acheampong – Zaphnat Panea – [3NOA]
OJ – maye se mo pen – [3OJ]
Cynthia Maccauley – Nkomhye – [3CM]

*Artiste of the Year –
Joyce Blessing – Monko moakye – [4JB]
OJ – maye se mo pen – [4OJ]
Cynthia Maccauley – Nkomhye – [4CM]
Nicholas Omane Acheampong – Zaphnat Panea – [4NOA]

*Popular Video of the Year –
Joyce Blessing – Monko moakye – [5JB]
OJ – maye se mo pen – [5OJ]
Cynthia Maccauley – Nkomhye – [5CM]
Nicholas Omane Acheampong – Zaphnat Panea – [5NOA]

*Alternative Gospel Video of the Year –
Sarkodie – Hallelujah – [6SK]
Brenya – Life – [6BN]
EL – Hallelujah – [6EL]
Trigmatic – Wo Sika Nti – [6TG]

*Alternative Gospel Song of the Year –
Sarkordie – Hallelujah – [7SK]
EL – see me suffer – [7EL]
Brenya – Life – [7BN]
Lil Shaker – Amen – [7LS]

*Collaboration of the Year –
Joyce Blessing & Jewek Arkah – Nyame Eguama – [8JB]
Ceccy Twum & Nacy – semeko Meho a – [8CT]
Bro Philimon & Mouris – me bo wodin – [8BP]
Ruthy & Nacy – Lala – [8RT]

*Urban Gospel Artiste of the Year –
Joe Mettle – Medo wo – [9JM]
Eugene Zuta – woso – [9EZ]
Akese Brempong – Crazy Love – [9AB]
Shika – Onnaee – [9SK]

*NOMINEES FOR GGIA 2013 – ACADEMY VOTING CATEGORIES

*Male Vocalist of the year –

OJ – Maye se mo pen
Uncle Ato – Ono Nkotoo
Joe Mettle – Sound of Praise
Koda – Nsem pee

*Female Vocalist of the year –
Cynthia Maccauley – Nkomhye
Joyce Blessing – Monko moakye
Ceccy Twum – semeko Meho a, Osoro Kasiebo
Miriam Afari – Ashase Nyame

*Video of the year
Emmitt Jim Konadu – you are beautiful
OJ – maye se mo pen
Tina Asante – Remember me
Celestine Donkor – Manim Nuguase

*Record Label/ Executive Producer of the Year –
Media Exel Prod. Joyce Blessing (Nyame Eguama)
Cebex Prod. – OJ (maye se mo pen)
Obroni Records – Ernest Acheampong (pagya me)
Gospel Sound Engineer of the Year –
Dan Bassy – Obaapa Christy (Aba ba mu)
Dave Joy – Joyce Blessing (Nyame Eguama)
Nacy –OJ ( maye se mo pen / apor jesu)

* Gospel Producer of the Year –
Nacy – OJ ( maye se mu pen)
Dave Joy – Nyame Guamaa
Osei Francis Ahyease Nyame
Dan Bassy – Nkumhye no aba mo

*Best Gospel Song Writer –
Ernest Kwaku Sarfo – Monko moakye (Joyce Blessing)
Koda – Nsem pii
OJ – maye se mo pen
Bro Philimon – Mebo wodin

NOMINEES FOR GGIA 2013 – HONORARY CATEGORIES

*Honorary Award of the year –
Elder Mireku

* Life Time Achievement Award –
· Kusi Berko

BARIMA SYDNEY SPEAKS ABOUT MAHAMA’S "DONKOMI" VIDEO

Over the week, there were rumours that controversial hiplife musician, Barima Sydney, had been invited by the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) over the use of President John Mahama's image in his latest video clip which was yet to be released.

In a chat with Sydney, he told Flex newspaper that the official video of the music was not out, but rather they had taken a few seconds of the span of the video, to show it to critics through Whatsapp and other social media platform so they could take the critics view on it before its official release.

He said after they shared the short music video with friends, he saw an article by the 'Herald' and 'The informer' newspapers that, he had been invited by BNI and national security.

He lamented that from a close source, he fathomed that the article the newspapers did was a calculated attempt to influence the BNI and National security to call him so they could frustrate him from coming out with the official video and music.

In the video of the of the 'Donkomi' song, the President impressively dressed in fine 'fugu' with Barima Sydney, sitting beside him at the Flagstaff House, asking him probing questions about what people are saying on the streets of Accra concerning the allegations of corruption under his watch.

He stated that the song is just a wake – up call on the president and they are basically things that have already happened and things that people are saying on the street including some of the answers that the president has already given.

He cleared allegations he's a member of the NPP: “I have never come out to say I will always rally behind Nana Addo or NPP. What I said in 2012 was that I personally thought Nana Addo's messages made lots of sense to me than John Mahama's. Nana Addo was preaching free education while Mahama was preaching 'Ede bee Keke.'”

“In 2008, I did a song titled 'Oga Dey Chop Am' 'Chanfu Chanfu' and people said I was an NDC affiliate, so to me I think Ghanaians will always talk against some of us who want to do social and political music, to help the society,” he added.

NADIA BUARI & JIM IYKE FACE THE PRESS @ ‘THE DAIRY OF IMOGEN BROWN’ LAUNCH

Ghanaian actress, Nadia Buari and her lover, Jim Iyke were today present at the press briefing of her new movie - ‘The Dairy of Imogen Brown’, which took place at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Accra, Ghana.

At the launch which saw Nadia come in with an Engagement Ring which is supposedly to be from her boo told the media that, “I took up the challenge which was a bit scary because I am not the authoritative person, but it is my passion and thus I think it was the right time to venture into this.”

Jim showered praises on his woman, by calling her, “a hardworking lady.”

The movie which is based on real life events also features her boyfriend, Jim Iyke and her brothers Majeed Sidiku Buari, Jameel Sidiku Buari, Soraya Mensah, Heba Khaled, Kevin Boateng, Prince Mingles and Beatrice Dadson.

Imogen Brown, a successful business woman who had it all. Such as what most women will wish for, an incredibly beautiful daughter, a great home, a diamond business empire and a handsome boyfriend.

Unknowing to her, her envious boyfriend, Tyler Graham, who had been having an affair with two of Imogen’s closest friends, was only interested in her wealth.

After many failed attempts of persuading Imogen to marrying him so he could take over her company, he decides to walk out on their six years relationship. In trying to get over the pain of heartbreak, she meets Stanley Coleman who introduces her to all kinds of drugs and as a result becomes an addict.

The movie will be premiered in Accra on the 23rd of December, 2013, at the Accra International Conference Centre from 7pm and 9pm.

In Takoradi on the 24th of December, 2013, at the Akroma Plaza from 5pm and 8pm; and in Kumasi on the 26th of December, 2013, at the Golden Tulip Hotel from 6pm and 8.30pm.

JOSELYN DUMAS & PRINCE DAVID OSEI NOW DATING?

This is the photograph of popular Ghanaian actor, Prince David Osei and actress cum TV host, Joselyn Dumas, fuelling speculations that they are dating.

But Prince David has reportedly denied the claim saying, “We are just friends.”

“Joselyn Dumas happens to be a friend and she was in the UK, the same time I was in the UK and we hanged out together at an Italian restaurant. But we are just friend,” David added.

Joselyn is yet to be heard on allegation. Prince David is the second actor; she was amorously link with this year, after John Dumelo.

She acted with John in the upcoming Christmas film, Northern Affairs and that set the tone for the gossip about her and John.

GHANA’S DJ BLACK FACE-OFF SOUTH AFRICA’S DJ DIVALASH FOR 020 LIVE

Ghana’s well-known disk jockey, DJ Black and DJ Divalash from South Africa will square off at this year’s 020 Live ‘Red Island Party’ in a battle for supremacy.

DJ Black, who is considered one of Ghana's top radio personalities, started as the DJ for the group Prime Cut in 1995, and went on to host both the ‘Space Jam’ show and the ‘Universal Hip-Hop Show’ on Radio Universe, a University of Ghana campus radio station in 1997.

The talented DJ joined Accra-based radio station Joy FM in 2001 where he hosts the "Weekend Warmer" show on Fridays and the "Open House Party" show on Saturdays.

In 2010, DJ Black was Africa’s second best disc jockey, according to MNet’s showbiz news program, Studio 53 Extra.

DJ Divalash, on the other hand is driven by her passion to spin the music she loves for a larger audience. She started disk jocking early 2010, and has performed at the 2010 World Cup funfest and the Big Brother Amplified Live eviction show in 2011.

In February this year, she won the best international DJ of the year award at the first-ever National DJ awards in Africa, held in Ghana.

This year’s ‘020 Live which will take place this Saturday at Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra promises to be a fun-filled event with Ghanaian born UK-based Fuse ODG; R2Bees, 4x4, Eazzy, Keche and Ryan, winner of Vodafone Icons Street’s Edition performing on the night.

CASTRO DEFENDS ASAMOAH GYAN

Hiplife show stopper Castro has jumped to the defense of Baby Jet Asamoah Gyan over claims by some Castro fans that Asamoah Gyan “destroyed” the part he sang on Castro’s latest release Odo Pa.

Contrary to the claim that Asamoah Gyan’s portion on Odo Pa was not well executed, the African Girls hitmaker told Showbiz last week “Asamoah’s version is even the most loved part by most of my fans. Just visit the various social sites and you will know how people are crazy about his part. Some people even doubt if indeed it was he who sang that portion, but that is Asamoah for you, he is multi-talented”.

He revealed to Showbiz that unknown to many, he had been friends with the skipper of the Black Stars since childhood and had always known that the latter loved good music.

He denied that he was riding on the back of Asamoah’s popularity to direct some shine to himself in the face of the stiff competition on the music scene. “Asamoah is only doing what he loves to do”, he said.

He confirmed, however, that his collaboration with Asamoah Gyan has helped his brand and music to transcend the borders of the country because he is the only artiste whose music is played on Super Sports, feat most artistes could only dream of.

Before the release of Odo pa, Castro featured the Black Stars skipper on his African Girls album in 201l which revealed the showbiz spirit within him.

Currently, working on his fifth album, the Back and Front singer believes Odo Pa, the new hit single from the yet to be released album is a testimony of the good stuff to expect. He hinted of the album’s release next year when Asamoah returns home after the league and promised there will be “fireworks”.

The Toffee singer told Showbiz that his voice has always been that magical wand that pulls people to his music.

“For me, my voice is my identity because at the initial stages of being in the public limelight, it was that which gave me recognition.

“Till date, whenever I step out and ask for assistance from people, they blackmail me to sing for them. My voice gives me the power to excel.

“You can’t even imagine that when I go to the hospital to seek medical assistance, the nurses will say ‘use that voice of yours to sing for us before we attend to you’ and in most cases, I am compelled to do it. I never knew that my voice has given me such an identity” he said.

According to the artiste, his accolade” The Destroyer” which was attached to his showbiz name emerged from the fact that all the songs he comes out with become instant hits because he is versatile and cannot be clamp down by just one genre of music.

“I don’t just do any music but normally seek the views of my fans who tell me what they want and I give them just exactly that.

His debut album, Sradinam shot him into instant fame and he followed up with subsequent hit albums including Toffee, Comm Centre and African Girls.

“It has always been my prayer that God will bless me so that I can help the society, family and unearth talents that are hidden. My dream is to help bring talented but hidden young artistes to limelight.

“There are so many talents but because the music industry lacks the right structures like producers and record labels, many of these talents are left to go waste”.

OHEMAA MERCY’S CHRISTMAS GIFT TO ALL IS ‘HIS WORD’

Ghana’s queen of gospel music, Ohemaa Mercy will next week bring out her latest album titled "His Word".

The 12-track album was produced by Morris D’Voice, Dan Bassey, Kwick Action, George Forest and Francis Osei.

Ohemaa collaborates on some of the songs with Shasha Marley, Cwesi Oteng, Osei ‘Seprewa’ Korankye and Morris D’Voice.

There’s highlife, roots rock reggae, slow worship, contemporary club feel and traditional-clothed tracks that would appeal to diverse listeners.

“It is a great mix of songs because the producers and featured artistes brought their different infections on board,” says Ohemaa.

Her trademark, since bursting onto the gospel music scene in 2005, has been to encourage the depressed and down-hearted to keep trusting in God and she does that well on the new album.

“This new collection is my Christmas gift to everyone. This is the season for giving and there could not be a better gift from me than to urge us all to keep praying and hold on tight to His Word.”

Ohemaa’s last album, the 14-truck Prophecy, was released at the end of 2011.

It was a successful album that contained songs like Obeye Ama Wo, Mengye Ntum, Oye Bi Mame, Ya Paw, Obatanpa, Apam and Fa Woho To No So.

“I know the songs ministered to a lot of people, I started praying to God to guide me on the way forward and the new album is the result of my supplication to God,” Ohemaa said.

According to the songstress, who is signed to the Tema-based Atlantic Productions company, there will be an executive launch of her new work in Accra on December 28.

Part of the proceeds from the sale of the album will go to support her Ohemaa Foundation and Prison Ministry.

GHANA GETS READY FOR THE FIRST 3D EXPERIENCE

Silverbird Cinemas, Ghana’s number one entertainment hub is due to open a second branch at Functions Ghana in a week’s time.

The new theatre will bring world-class movie experience to movie enthusiasts around Weija, Dansoman, Lapaz and its environs.

The new Silverbird cinema has three cinema halls with a seating capacity of 460 people. Each hall is furnished with the latest technology, digital projectors, and sound output.

Mr. Albert Adomako-Mensah, Director of Special Projects and Operations at Global Media Alliance, parent company of Silverbird Ghana noted that “the expansion of our cinemas to Weija is to bring world-class cinematic experiences with special projections to the doorstep of our customers and patrons. We have also installed the 9D games arcade which we introduced in October this year.

This is aimed at giving our customers a complete entertainment experience, and to affirm our position as the number one entertainment hub in the country”.

The cinemas will also serve as a multipurpose function location for activities such as conferences, business meetings, and events launch.

NOLLYWOOD STARS JOIN 2015 POLITICAL CAMPAIGN...DESMOND ELLIOT ON THE LIST

2015 is around the corner and politicians are busy getting their campaign caps on. Don’t be shocked to hear that Nollywood is being dragged into it.

Already, we have names like star actor, Desmond Elliot campaigning for Lagos politician, Jimi Agbaje, who is eyeing the state governorship. After Fashola’s.

Leading the team of campaigners who call themselves ‘Team Jaykay (Think Tank) are Alex Okoroji, Desmond Elliot, Benjamin Joseph, Gbenro Ajibade and a host of others.

Desmond carried a message on his Blackberry Status during the week, which reads:”Decide what you want, decide what you are willing to exchange for it. Establish your priorities and go to work.”

Well, I want a better and more comfortable LAGOS. I’m willing to exchange my ‘in-action’ and ‘silence’ to speak up for a leader who will give me the Lagos of my DREAMS.

I have established that making Jimi Kolawole Agbaje governor, is one of my priorities and I’m off to work on that. Join the MOVEMENT!!Its JAYKAY 2015 The hope has begun”.

PHOTOS: HAS JIM IYKE ENGAGED NADIA BUARI? CHECK OUT THE RING ON HER FINGER!

Has Jim Iyke asked the question already? Well, if the rock on Nadia Buari’s finger during an intended press screening of her new movie, ‘The Diary of Imogen Brown’ on Thursday morning was anything to go by, then maybe the sexy actress and Jim may be heading to the altar sooner than we imagined. While you’re engaged, your engagement ring will go on the left hand, finger next to the pinky. During the ceremony, you can wear it wherever you want cause your wedding ring should go on first and then your engagement ring. So, once your wedding ring is on, you can transfer your engagement ring back to that finger after the ceremony. In the case of Nadia it may well be a fashion statement as her right hand was also dazzling with more of such ornaments…hmmm