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We have failed for not investing in making hiplife attractive to younger acts – Okyeame Kwame 

Nana Kesse
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We have failed for not investing in making hiplife attractive to younger acts – Okyeame Kwame 

Multiple award-winning Ghanaian rapper and songwriter, Kwame Nsiah-Apau popularly known as Okyeame Kwame has expressed dissatisfaction about the neglect of the hiplife tag by the current crop of Ghanaian rappers.

According to Okyeame, a lot of young rappers in Ghana would rather want to associate with hip hop or Asakaa (Ghanaian drill) now than call themselves hiplife artistes because it is difficult to find the genre name on digital music stores.

During an interview with Joy FM’s entertainment journalist Kwame Dadzie on X, Dadzie raised concerns about the perceived decline in the hiplife field.

Dadzie who expressed worry about the lull in the hiplife field wrote: “I admire @Okyeamekwame ‘s love for hiplife and his annual hiplife concert but what is the end-goal? Your people say hiplife is dead. Even these young rappers would rather want to identify with hip hop or Asakaa than hiplife?”

Responding to the post, Okyeame Kwame acknowledged the shift in preference among younger rappers and explaining that although they may not use the term “hiplife,” they are technically still creating music within that genre.

“A younger generation will give up on tradition when it fails them. If they call their music hiplife, how will it fit on Spotify and other streaming sites? People choose their business heroes based on financial and social impact, how many heroes did hiplife create? Nuances,” Okyeame Kwame emphasized.

Asked if he meant hiplife had failed, he answered in the affirmative and admitted that hiplife had indeed failed, pointing out several factors, including the lack of a digital platform to sell their art, the failure to turn their gifts into a multi-billion-dollar business collectively, and the absence of a welcoming culture to attract young artists.

Contrary to the belief that hiplife concerts may be unnecessary in recent times, Okyeame Kwame explained the importance of such events in evoking nostalgia and preserving the heritage of Ghana’s music genre, Hiplife.

“The goal is to evoke nostalgia and also maintain the heritage of Ghana’s music genre #HIPLIFE and make sure it is not forgotten in the annals of history. 

The beautiful #asakaa music is #hiplife (Hiphop + Highlife). The term hiplife has just not been used for it,” he explained.

Addressing the mention of Ghanaian drill by the Recording Academy of the Grammy Awards instead of hiplife, Okyeame Kwame dismissed it, stating that the Grammy Awards operate on a business basis.

“The Grammy award is not consequential here. It is an American award, they choose what will benefit their agenda financially. Do you think they involve some Ghanaian genres because they love Ghana or because they want to be relevant in Ghana? It is business not charity,” he stated.

Another iconic hiplife artiste, TiC, shared his thought on the matter.

“Hip Life is dead.” There’s no need to start the convo this way…. Is Hip Hop dead? No, but the real hip hop is not flowing like it used to. Again it has gone through different transformations, to the extent that the real hip hop lovers will say it doesn’t sound like before, yet hip hop is still alive. Why can’t we do the same here, accept that the original versions of HipLife is not flowing but we still got it in the new vibe rather than saying it is dead. Life goes on not backwards i guess,” he posted.

I sold my Rolex watch to fund ‘Rhythms of Africa’ concert – Sonnie Badu

Nana Kesse
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I sold my Rolex watch to fund ‘Rhythms of Africa’ concert – Sonnie Badu

The Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) pulsated with excitement as it hosted the biggest gospel musical event of 2023 so far, “Rhythms of Africa”.

Curated by the iconic UK-based Ghanaian gospel musician Sonnie Badu, in collaboration with George Quaye’s Image Bureau, Rhythms of Africa was a resounding success, with the event selling out completely.

The sheer star power of the event which took place on Saturday, December 9, was enough to tell that “Rhythms of Africa” was meticulously planned and executed.

A plethora of A-list gospel artists graced the stage, including Nigeria’s Preye Odede, Ghana’s Joe Mettle, Nacee, Piesie Esther, Perez Musik, and MOG Music.

Their presence alone confirmed the event’s high calibre and drew in a massive audience.

But speaking in an interview with Nana Adwoa Annan of Onua TV, Dr Sonnie Badu made a staggering revelation that the show was organised without sponsors getting on board.

“We hardly got sponsors, and I don’t know why people don’t want to invest when it comes to gospel music. It’s probably a demon worrying us. We sent sponsorship proposals five months ahead and still got just a few to give peanuts “ he said

Sounding extremely disdained the iconic ‘Baba’ crooner disclosed that he had to sell his wristwatch to be able to fund the event.

“I sold my Rolex watch this morning for my concert…Funding gospel events in Ghana is an issue that needs to be looked at.” he astonishingly revealed.

Watch excerpts of his performance at the event below

Photo: Ciara welcomes third baby with husband Russell Wilson

Nana Kesse
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Photo: Ciara welcomes third baby with husband Russell Wilson

Popular American singer and songwriter, Ciara, has welcomed a baby girl with her husband, National Football League (NFL) star, Russell Wilson.

The couple shared the amazing news in a joint Instagram post on Monday, December 11, announcing the birth of their baby girl, whom they have named, Amora.

“Amora Princess Wilson 9lbs 1oz We Love You so much!” the caption read, alongside a picture of the baby wearing an all-black outfit with a hat embroidered with her name in bold white lettering.

Ciara and Wilson already have two children together, son Win Harrison and daughter Sienna Princess and also parent Future Zahir, Ciara’s son whom she shares with her ex, Future.

See photo below

My only regret in life is dating my ex-lover – Omah Lay

Nana Kesse
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My only regret in life is dating my ex-lover – Omah Lay

Nigerian afrobeats singer, Stanley Omah Didia, widely known as Omah Lay has opened up about his life and past experiences, shedding light on his lifetime regret.

According to him, his life journey, expressing contentment with most of the decisions he’s made, except for one particular regret – dating his ex-lover.

During an interview with BBC Radio Capital Xtra in London, United Kingdom, the award-winning music icon Omah Lay did not go into details on his ordeal but disclosed that he wished he had not met or had an affair with his ex-lover named Bright because his relationship with her gravely affected his mental health.

“What my present self will tell myself ten years ago, I will say, ‘I’m proud of you, bro. I’m proud of all the decisions you’re making right now. I’m proud of how hard you’re working right now because I know this whole thing didn’t start now.

“It started a long time ago. I am 26, I started hustling when I was about 13. Yeah, I will say, ‘I’m proud of you. I’m proud of all the decisions you’ve made. Just keep doing it.’ I don’t think there is anything that I would have changed. Oh! I think one particular babe, her name is Bright. I would’ve dodged that babe. But it’s fine,” he said.

South African music icon Zahara dies aged 36

Nana Kesse
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South African music icon Zahara dies aged 36

Award-winning South African singer and songwriter Bulelwa Mkutukana, 36, known by her stage name Zahara has passed on.

The “Loliwe” hitmaker was admitted in hospital with liver complications two weeks ago. A source close to the muso told Sunday World that the singer passed away just before 9pm.

“The family will release a statement soon. She was with Mpho when she passed away,” the source added.

Mkutukana family spokesperson and Zahara’s cousin Oyama Dyosiba said he was struggling to locate Xaba on Monday night.

“I am getting calls from everywhere. I am in Cape Town and doing my best to get hold of Mpho. I can’t get hold of him,” he added.

Zizi Kodwa, the minister of sport, arts and culture, posted on X: “I am very saddened by the passing of @ZaharaSA. My deepest condolences to the Mkutukana family and the South African music industry.

“Government has been with the family for some time now. Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music,” said Kodwa.

A week ago, the family confirmed that Zahara was hospitalised for a week.

They thanked those supporting them and expressing compassion for the then ailing musician. This after reports the singer was rushed to hospital due to “liver complications”.

The statement read: “Unfortunately, even though our daughter’s hospitalisation has been of strict confidentiality within our family and close friends, that hasn’t stopped the spread of disingenuous information on the internet. We want to stress that any reliable information regarding Zahara’s health will be communicated via her official social media platforms or by herself.”

The singer’s family from East London also arrived in Joburg to be by the singer’s fiancé, Xaba’s, side.

Zahara was admitted to a medical ward but her condition became worse and she was transferred to the ICU section of the private hospital.

Last week, the singer’s situation deteriorated and she was reportedly unresponsive.

Hit albums and awards
Zahara released five hot selling studio albums, from double platinum debut Loliwe (2011) to Nqaba Yam (2021), peaked at number 1 on iTunes.

She has scooped 17 South African Music Awards in her career, plus three Metro FM Awards and one Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Tributes to the late star have flooded social media platforms.

Credit: Sundayworld.co.za

Ursula Owusu warns TV broadcasters of signal disruption in 2024 if usage fees are not settled

Nana Kesse
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Ursula Owusu warns TV broadcasters of signal disruption in 2024 if usage fees are not settled

Communications Minister, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has cautioned that TV signals may face disruption in the coming year if broadcasters fail to meet their financial obligations.

According to the minister, this has become necessary because some broadcasters have failed to pay for the usage of the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) platform.

The minister, who doubles as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Ablekuma West Constituency, emphasized the importance of broadcasters paying for the use of the airwaves to ensure the sustainability of the broadcasting industry.

Addressing the Parliament floor on Monday, December 11, 2023, Owusu-Ekuful emphasized that the government, which has hitherto covered the operating costs of the platform, is no longer willing to shoulder the financial burden. Despite multiple notifications, some media houses have been reluctant to meet their payment obligations, she noted.

“As I speak, none of the broadcasters on the DTT platform pay for using it and this situation cannot continue in continue in our current economic state. Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) is not a broadcaster hosted on this platform. So I don’t know in which capacity they would be acting. They have members who are broadcasters on the DTT platform but none of them have paid a pesewa today for being hosted on the platform,” she said.

She continued by asserting that, “Government says it cannot continue to pay for it, so if they do not pay for it, unfortunately, we may find ourselves in a situation where we cannot receive TV broadcast signals because the platform will be shut down for non-payment of the operational expenses that it is incurring.”

Mary claims Kuami Eugene’s girlfriend was kind to her; paid her rent, dashed her TV and sum of money

Nana Kesse
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Mary claims Kuami Eugene’s girlfriend was kind to her; paid her rent, dashed her TV and sum of money

Mary, who was the former house help of multiple award-winning Ghanaian music icon Kuami Eugene has narrated how the singer’s girlfriend treated her well.

Speaking in a recent interview, Mary disclosed how the artist’s girlfriend paid for her rent.

According to Mary, Kuami Eugene’s girlfriend dashed her some money and bought a brand new TV.

However, she warned her not to let Kuami Eugene know else he’ll not be happy.

VIDEO: Efya and Charlie Dior break the internet as they deliver electrifying performance together

Nana Kesse
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VIDEO: Efya and Charlie Dior break the internet as they deliver electrifying performance together

Multiple award-winning Ghanaian performer Efya and fashion critic Charlie Dior are making waves after a video of them being spotted performing together sparked a lot of discussions on social media.

Efya and Charlie Dior came together to perform Efya’s Bisa Kdei feature, ‘One of Your Own’, during a recent live concert by the singer.

The duo delivered an electrifying performance, singing the song and also dancing sensually with one another.

Watch the video below;

Government secures GH¢4.12 billion in latest treasury bill auction

Nana Kesse
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Government secures GH¢4.12 billion in latest treasury bill auction

The government borrowed GH¢4.12 billion from treasury bills in its latest auction on December 8, 2023.

The short-term instrument saw a marginal oversubscription of GH¢208.46 million away from the government’s target of GH¢3.919 billion in its latest auction on December 4, 2023.

Interest rates on treasury bills have continued to increase but the government keeps getting oversubscriptions.

Interest rates for the 365-day bill currently stands at 33.45%.

According to the latest auction results from the Bank of Ghana, interest rates for the 91-day and 182-day bills have increased to 29.58% and 31.96% respectively.

According to the Bank of Ghana results, all bids tendered in this week’s auction were not accepted.

The 91-day bill saw a total subscription of GH¢2.53 billion, GH¢1.11 billion was accepted from the 182-day bill and GH¢481.75 million was accepted from the 364-day bills.

The government has set its next auction target at GH¢3.984 billion.

Lithium mining: Ghana to get its first lithium processing plant from ReElement Tech

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Lithium mining: Ghana to get its first lithium processing plant from ReElement Tech

Soon, Ghana will have its own lithium procession plant, making it possible for the mining of the mineral in the country to be made easier.

This follows a meeting that ReElement, a subsidiary of the American Resources Corporation, in partnership with TECHGULF Ghana, concluded talks with the Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

Following the courtesy call, Dr. Bawumia expressed great hopes at the future this plant would bring to Ghana.

“We are delighted to witness the collaboration between ReElement Technologies Corporation and TECHGULF Ghana in establishing Africa’s first battery-grade lithium processing plant. This initiative aligns seamlessly with Ghana’s commitment to sustainable development and positions the country as a key player in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle sector,” he said, a statement indicated.

ReElement Technologies Corporation is renowned for its expertise in high-performance refining capacity of rare earth and critical battery element, and will spearhead the establishment of the lithium processing plant.

Read the full statement on this initiative below:

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

American Resources Corporation’s Subsidiary, ReElement Technologies Corporation, Partners with TECHGULF Ghana to Launch Africa’s First Lithium Processing Plant in Ghana

American Resources Corporation’s cutting-edge subsidiary, ReElement Technologies Corporation, has joined forces with TECHGULF Ghana Limited, a prominent technology firm, to introduce Africa’s inaugural lithium processing plant in Ghana. This ground-breaking initiative, unveiled during a courtesy call on the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, signals a significant leap forward in Africa’s quest for sustainable energy solutions and economic development driven by the growing lithium industry.

ReElement Technologies Corporation, renowned for its expertise in high-performance refining capacity of rare earth and critical battery elements, will spearhead the lithium processing plant’s establishment. This collaborative effort reflects a commitment to advancing Ghana’s lithium discovery and supporting the global demand for electric vehicle components. The full scope includes improving the value step by importing high-value technology in processing and refining lithium ore in Ghana by Ghanaians in Africa.

In a statement, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to witness the collaboration between ReElement Technologies Corporation and TECHGULF Ghana in establishing Africa’s first battery-grade lithium processing plant. This initiative aligns seamlessly with Ghana’s commitment to sustainable development and positions the country as a key player in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle sector.”

The joint venture aims to construct an advanced training facility for lithium processing, in Takoradi emphasising skill development and knowledge transfer to empower local talent in the burgeoning lithium industry through the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT). This facility will play a pivotal role in enhancing Ghana’s technological capabilities and fostering innovation in the region.

Mr. Mark Jensen, Chairman and CEO of ReElement Technologies Corporation, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, stating, “We are proud to collaborate with TECHGULF Ghana in pioneering Africa’s first lithium processing plant. This venture underscores our commitment to advancing sustainable technologies and fostering economic growth in the region. By combining ReElement’s refining expertise with TECHGULF’s technological prowess, we aim to contribute significantly to the global electric vehicle value chain.”

TECHGULF Ghana Limited, recognised for its specialisation in the development and support of digital infrastructure, will bring its technological acumen to the partnership. The company’s role in the collaboration includes the implementation of cutting-edge digital systems for efficient plant operations and facilitating advanced training programs for local workforce development.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Franklin Asare, CEO of TECHGULF Ghana Limited, said, “We are excited about the prospects of this collaboration and the positive impact it will have on Ghana’s technology landscape. By combining our strengths with ReElement Technologies Corporation, we are confident in our ability to contribute to the sustainable growth of the lithium processing industry in Africa.”

The project is poised to be a catalyst for economic development in Ghana, fostering job creation, technology transfer, and sustainable practices. The construction of the lithium processing plant and training facility is slated to commence in the coming months, with an anticipated completion date in early 2025.

Ends

Source: Ghanaweb.com

Rapper Edem granted GH₵50K bail after allegedly knocking down woman dead

Nana Kesse
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Rapper Edem granted GH₵50K bail after allegedly knocking down woman dead

Renowned Ghanaian rapper, Denning Edem Hotor popularly known as Edem has been granted a GH₵50,000 after he was arraigned in court for knocking down a woman believed to be in her 40s.

Edem on Sunday, December 10, 2023, involved in a motor accident where a ‘naked’ woman crossed his path out of nowhere.

Edem appeared at the Kaneshie District Court presided over by Nana Abena Asor Owusu Amenyo, for knocking down the woman in question with a Honda Touring vehicle with registration number GX 3011-19.

According report, the woman was pronounced dead on arrival at the Police Hospital in Accra.

Edem was charged with two counts of careless and inconsiderate driving and negligently causing harm.

According to a press statement signed by this management, the incident happened after the musician’s appearance on United Television driving from Abeka heading towards Spintex Road through the George Walker Bush Highway when the incident happened.

The “We Don’t Really Care” hitmaker is alleged to have occupied the middle lane but a few meters away from the Dimples roundabout he knocked down the victim.

His plea was, however, not taken. He is to re-appear on February 15, 2024.

VIDEO: Woman shocks many as she uses her power bank to cook

Nana Kesse
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VIDEO: Woman shocks many as she uses her power bank to cook

A yet-to-be-identified Nigerian woman has captured the attention of many after a video surfaced of her cooking with a power bank.

The video, shared by an ex-corps member identified as @albakanwwy001, has since gone viral, sparking mixed reactions from netizens.

The entrepreneurial woman was spotted in Ikirun, Osun state, showcasing an unconventional method of generating fire for her yam frying business.

‘How do you do It?

The footage shows her utilizing a portable charger connected to an undisclosed device, which, in turn, produced the flames necessary for frying yams.

The ex-corps member expressed his amazement in Yoruba, engaging the woman in conversation to understand the innovative approach.

While the specific details of how the power bank was linked to the cooking apparatus remain unclear, the footage has ignited curiosity and discussion online.

In recent times, Nigerians have exhibited a trend of resourcefulness in finding alternative ways to generate heat for cooking.

This includes the development of a water-powered stove and a toilet that generates gas for cooking. The viral video has elicited diverse reactions on social media.

@albakanwwy001 #handicraft #osun #ikirun #trendingnow #tiktok #chalengetiktokok #Now #fyp #fypviral #viralvideo #foryoupage #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #yorubatiktok #voiceeffects #albakanwy001 #famous #instagram #instablog9ja #tiktokblogger #blogger #9jatiktok #naijaeverything #viralvideo🔥 #makemefamous #Talent #talentotiktok #talented #Africa #africantiktok ♬ original sound – ALBAKANWY001

Medikal readies to sell out Indigo O2 in May 2024

Nana Kesse
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Medikal readies to sell out Indigo O2 in May 2024

Multiple award-winning Ghanaian rapper, Medikal is ready to make history to headline his maiden concert as the first solo Ghanaian artiste to sell out Indigo at The O2 in London scheduled for May 3, 2024.

Even though Lynx Entertainment signees, KiDi and Kuami Eugene jointly filled the 02 Arena auditorium last year, this will be the first time a Ghanaian musician will exclusively be selling out as a solo artiste.

Already, Medikal, who recently released his ‘Planning & Plotting’ album is very positive about the task ahead.

Reposting the official announcement of the concert by Indigo at the 02 on his X (formerly Twitter) handle earlier today, Medikal wrote, “From nothing to something, Can’t wait”

The said post has received many congratulations from his followers as well as industry players and colleagues, expressing lots of optimism about Medikal’s ability to sell out the auditorium.

Medikal has indisputably secured a good place on Ghana’s rap scene having won the best Lyrical Performer at the 2019 Ghana Music Awards.

He has collaborated with the likes of Shatta Wale, Davido, Sarkodie, Bisa Kdei, Stonebwoy, Joey B, Kwesi Arthur among many other Ghanaian music stalwarts have helped shape his brand.

With songs such as ‘Omo Ada’, ‘Father’, ‘Ayekoo’, ‘La Hustle’, ‘Confirm’, increasing Medikal’s popularity beyond Ghana, there’s no doubt patrons will have a good time and equally serve the platform for him to bond with his fans in the UK.

Watch: Madame Web’s first trailer weaves a weird new Spider-verse

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Watch: Madame Web’s first trailer weaves a weird new Spider-verse

Sony’s Spider-Man films have given us a little taste of everything, from parasitic mayhem in Venomto the animated brilliance of the Spider-Verse series to whatever Morbius was supposed to be. Now, clairvoyance enters the ring in Madame Web.

The first trailer for this standalone origin story introduces us to Cassandra Webb (Dakota Johnson), a paramedic who may have clairvoyant powers.

As she tries to understand her newfound abilities and a troubling past, she’ll cross paths with three young women (Sydney Sweeney, Celeste O’Connor, and Isabela Merced), all of whom are destined for Spidey-powered futures. But with the deadly Ezekiel Sims (Tahar Rahim) hot on all their paths, Cassie and this trio will have to team up and fight to survive their present.

Madame Web hits theaters Feb. 14.

Mary drops another bombshell; claims Kuami Eugene faked her birthday just to chase clout on social media

Nana Kesse
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Mary drops another bombshell; claims Kuami Eugene faked her birthday just to chase clout on social media

Mary, the ex-house help to Kuami Eugene has been trending on social media for some weeks now after revealing her monthly salary and expressing concerns about her treatment in the musician’s house

Responding to accusations of ingratitude, Mary has provided clarifications on a particular incident surrounding her birthday celebration.

Recall that Mary faced public backlash after disclosing that she received GHS400-600 while working for Kuami Eugene as a monthly salary.

After the revelation, critics labelled her as ungrateful, pointing out instances where the musician reportedly treated her well, including a birthday celebration.

However, Mary has now shed light on the controversy, explaining in a recent interview.

Contrary to the perception created by some reports, Mary has clarified that the birthday decorations in question were not intended for her.

According to her, Kuami Eugene took her to the Capitol to have dinner on the eve of her birthday.

While there, they saw someone else’s birthday decor, and the musician suggested that she pose in front of it for a photo to be posted on her actual birthday.

Mary emphasized that she simply followed her boss’s instructions and posed for the pictures, which were later shared by Kuami Eugene to wish her a happy birthday.

Unfortunately, certain blogs misinterpreted the situation, reporting that the musician had thrown a party for his house help.

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