Davido, born David Adeleke, comes from the prominent Adeleke family, which has a strong presence in both business and Nigerian politics. His uncle, Ademola Adeleke, is the current Governor of Osun State, while another uncle, Isiaka Adeleke, previously served as governor.

According to Davido, his own potential entry into politics came up following the death of his eldest uncle, Isiaka Adeleke.

He explained that Isiaka was expected to return as governor of Osun State before his death, leaving the family to consider who could step forward to continue its political influence.

Davido said he was considered for the role but his father felt he was too young at the time.

“My eldest uncle, Isiaka Adeleke, was meant to become Osun State governor again, but he passed away. We had to choose someone from the family, and my dad said I was too young. Then my uncle Ademola stepped in,” he said.

The decision ultimately paved the way for Ademola Adeleke to take a more prominent role in the family’s political affairs, eventually leading to his emergence as Governor of Osun State.

For Davido, however, the direction of his life took a very different turn. Rather than entering politics, he built his identity and influence through music, becoming one of Africa’s most successful Afrobeats artistes.

His global profile has since given him considerable influence, with his voice often attracting attention on social and national issues. Yet, despite that reach and his family’s political background, Davido says his focus remains primarily on his music career.

Instead, it started with a simple Instagram message she received while sitting in a lecture hall.

The singer has opened up about how a DM from rapper and entrepreneur D-Black unexpectedly changed the direction of her life while she was still a student.

She recalled being in class when she received the notification. Unsure whether the account was genuine, she showed it to her lecturer for confirmation. After checking the verified account, her lecturer confirmed that the message was indeed from the rapper.

D-Black had told her he had come across a video of her singing and was interested in having her join a new record label he was planning with DJ Breezy.

S3fa said the opportunity caught her by surprise, but with her mother’s encouragement, she decided to take the chance and see where it would lead.

Her first visit to the studio, however, was anything but comfortable.

S3fa recounted walking into a room filled with artistes she had never met before and quickly became nervous. She was also the only woman in the group, making the unfamiliar environment even more intimidating.

She was then asked to record a song with Epixode. Although she was new to the professional studio environment, the experienced artistes around her helped her settle in and find her confidence.

What was initially an introduction to the studio gradually became an unofficial audition. S3fa’s vocal ability impressed the people around her, and the attention shifted from simply testing her abilities to discussing the possibility of signing her.

That moment eventually became the beginning of her professional music journey.

Looking back, S3fa remains full of gratitude for D-Black who propelled her into the limelight, even as she ends her contract with his record label.

The celebrations brought together chiefs, queen mothers, traditional leaders and people from communities across the Agotime area to showcase their heritage and celebrate the traditions that have shaped their identity over generations.

A major highlight of the festival is the grand durbar in Kpetoe, where traditional authorities and community members gather in colourful traditional regalia, with Kente taking centre stage.

The festival also features the Agotime Kente Weaving Competition, which brings together master weavers to demonstrate their skill, creativity and speed. Participants compete to produce intricate and innovative Kente designs, with the best artisan earning recognition for their craftsmanship.

Beyond the colourful displays, the festival also provides an opportunity for the Agotime people to reconnect with their history.

As part of the celebrations, community members gathered at Afegame for Godigbe 2026, a significant traditional observance commemorating the journey and arrival of the Agotime people at their first settlement.

The occasion serves as a remembrance of the ancestors whose courage and sacrifices shaped the community, allowing successive generations to reconnect with their roots.

At Afegame, the people reflected on the journey of their forebears and the heritage passed down through generations, reinforcing the importance of preserving Agotime’s history and traditions for the future.

With its combination of Kente, traditional leadership, craftsmanship, music and ancestral remembrance, Agbamevɔ Za continues to provide a platform for the Agotime people to celebrate where they come from while passing their cultural heritage on to the next generation.

The August 15 concert marked Stonebwoy’s first headline performance at the iconic venue and made him the first Ghanaian artiste to headline a sold-out concert there.

The show brought together a strong line-up of Ghanaian and international acts, including Samini, Kwabena Kwabena, Ofori Amponsah, DopeNation, Mr P, Stylo G and other guest performers.

Stonebwoy and his guests treated the audience to a celebration of Ghanaian music and Afro-dancehall, with the arena filled with fans who turned out to support the BHIM Nation president.

The milestone adds another major chapter to the growth of BHIM Festival, which has evolved from its Ghanaian roots into an international platform for African music and culture.

Here are some moments from Stonebwoy’s historic BHIM Festival at OVO Arena Wembley.

The two-day cultural celebration is scheduled for December 4 and 5, 2026, and will bring together Ghanaians, Jamaicans and members of the African diaspora to celebrate the longstanding historical and cultural ties between the two countries.

The festival is expected to combine entertainment with cultural exchange, business and heritage activities, with organisers positioning it as a platform to strengthen Ghana-Jamaica relations.

Activities lined up include music concerts, dance showcases, art exhibitions, heritage tours, culinary fairs, business summits and commerce conversations.

The event will open with a traditional libation and drumming performance, followed by a symbolic flag-raising ceremony featuring the flags of Ghana and Jamaica.

Cultural ambassadors, musicians and dancers from both countries are also expected to take part in a colourful procession to officially commence the celebrations.

Organisers say the festival will provide an opportunity to celebrate shared ancestry while creating avenues for deeper cooperation in culture, tourism and commerce.

With the Legon Sports Stadium now confirmed as the host venue, attention turns to preparations for what organisers describe as a major celebration of the enduring Ghana-Jamaica connection.

Panettiere died on Sunday, August 16, 2026, in Greenville, South Carolina. Her death was confirmed by her representative in a statement issued on behalf of her family.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her and to the millions who watched her onscreen,” the statement said.

Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a report of an unresponsive woman at a residence in Greenville at about 1:50 p.m. local time on Sunday. She was pronounced dead at the scene after medical assistance was administered.

Authorities have said the preliminary investigation has found no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances, while the circumstances surrounding her death remain under investigation.

Panettiere became a familiar face to audiences from childhood, appearing in productions including “Remember the Titans” before rising to international fame as cheerleader Claire Bennet in NBC’s superhero drama “Heroes”.

She later took on another defining role as country singer Juliette Barnes in “Nashville”, earning two Golden Globe nominations for her performance. Her film credits also included “Scream 4” and “Scream VI”, while she lent her voice to video games including “Until Dawn”.

Her career began when she was still a child, with early appearances including “One Life to Live” and a voice role in Pixar’s “A Bug’s Life”. She continued working across television, film and voice acting for decades.

In 2026, Panettiere released her memoir, “This Is Me: A Reckoning”, in which she reflected on her experience growing up in Hollywood and spoke candidly about some of the most difficult chapters of her personal life.

She was also the mother of Kaya, her daughter with former heavyweight boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko. Her younger brother, actor Jansen Panettiere, died in 2023 at the age of 28.

News of Panettiere’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues, with tributes highlighting the impact of her performances and her long career in the entertainment industry.

She revealed the commitment through a video statement, detailing the film’s financial performance and the subsequent charitable transfer.

The production garnered over N103 million at the box office before industry deductions.

Once exhibitors, distributors, print costs, advertising expenses and various taxes, including entertainment and withholding taxes, were factored in, the amount retained by the production team totalled just over N22 million.

Jalade confirmed that this entire sum, consistent with Red Hot Concepts’ original pledge, went directly to the beneficiary organisation.

The transfer was executed in July 2026, with the distributors facilitating payment to Slum2School Africa on the 7th.

According to Jalade-Ekeinde, the film’s distributor, The Nile Entertainment, transferred N22,276,558 to Slum2School Africa on July 7, 2026.

“On the 7th of July 2026, our amazing distributors, Nile Entertainment, transferred that sum of money to our NGO beneficiary, Slum to School Africa”, she said.

“The team and I are very, very thankful. Thankful to you for going to watch Mother’s Love because you made it possible.

“We at Red Hot Concepts will now be following up with Slum to School Africa to make sure that this money is used very, very judiciously for the children that we have sent it to be used for.

“As you remember, we want this money to advance the  education of children from underserved communities. And we will now follow up to make sure that this money is used properly”.

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde is an actress, former model, and philanthropist who, after her Nollywood acting debut in 1995, has appeared in over 300 films.

Jalade is the first Nigerian celebrity to receive over 1 million likes on Facebook. As of 2016, she had over 3 million followers. In 2013, Jalade was included in Time’s 100 most influential people.

The annual festival celebrates the community’s long-standing kente weaving tradition while promoting unity, traditional leadership, cultural identity and the preservation of the craft for future generations.

Water-carrying procession

The festival activities began on Friday with the traditional Asialetorme, a colourful water-carrying procession in which women carried pots of water on their heads and paraded through the town.

The procession reflects the important role of women in the community while symbolising dignity, unity and respect for tradition. It also set the tone for the main celebrations, featuring music, colour and vibrant cultural displays.

Grand durbar

The climax of the festival came on Saturday with a grand durbar at Kpetoe, bringing together chiefs, queen mothers, traditional authorities, community members and invited guests.

The event featured traditional drumming and dancing, speeches, cultural performances and impressive displays of Agotime kente, with chiefs and queen mothers adorned in colourful traditional regalia.

A major focus of the durbar was the proposed Kente Village and Centre of Excellence, an initiative aimed at supporting local weavers, preserving traditional kente designs, creating employment opportunities and positioning Agotime as a major destination for cultural tourism.

The main guest of honour at the durbar was Alex Segbefia, Chief of Staff at the Office of the Vice President.

Mr Segbefia described kente as a powerful symbol of Ghanaian identity and heritage, while encouraging continued support for the proposed Kente Village and Centre of Excellence.

The 2026 celebration therefore served not only as a showcase of Agotime’s rich cultural traditions but also as a renewed call to protect, promote and modernise the kente weaving industry for generations to come.

Below are some photos captured during the events by Samuel Moore.

The Ghanaian dancehall star turned the OVO Arena Wembley into a celebration of Ghanaian and African music, bringing together some of the industry’s biggest names for a night filled with collaborations, surprise appearances and performances of familiar hits.

From veterans of Ghanaian highlife to some of Africa’s biggest contemporary stars, the concert delivered several moments that had fans on their feet.

Here are some of the performances and highlights you may have missed:

Stonebwoy and Kwabena Kwabena perform ‘Aso II’

Stonebwoy shared the stage with highlife veteran Kwabena Kwabena for a performance of their collaboration, “Aso II”.

The two artistes created one of the night’s nostalgic Ghanaian moments as they performed the song together before the London crowd.

Tiwa Savage brings ‘Koroba’ to Wembley

Nigerian Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage added her own flavour to the night with a performance of her hit song “Koroba”.

She surprised Stonebwoy on stage, and their chemistry and dance prowess were to die for.

Stonebwoy and Ofori Amponsah revisit ‘Odo Nwom’

Ghanaian highlife legend Ofori Amponsah joined Stonebwoy on stage for a performance of the remix of “Odo Nwom”.

The performance brought together two different generations of Ghanaian music and gave the audience a taste of classic highlife alongside Stonebwoy’s modern sound.

Samini makes surprise appearance with ‘Linda’

Ghanaian dancehall veteran Samini also made a surprise appearance at the concert.

He performed his popular song “Linda” before joining Stonebwoy on stage, giving fans an unexpected reunion between two of Ghana’s most recognised dancehall artistes.

Agbeshie and Keeny Ice join Stonebwoy for ‘Xosetor’

Stonebwoy brought Agbeshie and Keeny Ice to the Wembley stage for a live performance of “Xosetor”.

The two up-coming musicians had a thrill of performing before a massive international audience.

DopeNation brings Ghanapiano energy

DopeNation also joined the impressive lineup, bringing their signature Ghanapiano sound to the Wembley stage.

Their performance added another energetic Ghanaian touch to an already packed night of music.

Patoranking shows support

Nigerian dancehall and Afrobeats artiste Patoranking was also present at the event in support of Stonebwoy.

His appearance added to the growing list of African music stars who turned up for the BHIM FEST London experience.

With the performances, collaborations and surprise appearances, Stonebwoy’s BHIM FEST London became a showcase of Ghanaian music while creating room for wider African connections.

The event, held on Saturday, August 15, marked the first time a Ghanaian artiste headlined the 12,500-capacity OVO Arena Wembley, adding another milestone to Stonebwoy’s growing international career.

Stonebwoy’s entrance immediately set the tone for a night built around spectacle, Ghanaian culture and Afrodancehall.

With the independence arch and the Ghana flag projected behind him, the artiste made his way down to the arena as fans erupted, before taking control of the stage and moving through some of his biggest records.

One of the standout moments came when he performed “Silent Samurai”, bringing the energy of his Ghanaian shows to the London crowd.

The concert also featured appearances from a strong line-up of Ghanaian and African acts, including Samini, Kwabena Kwabena, Ofori Amponsah, DopeNation, Jux, Mista Silva, Mr P and Stylo G, among others.

For Stonebwoy, however, the significance of the night went beyond another international performance.

The BHIM FEST UK show placed him on the stage of a venue associated with some of the biggest names in global music. Stonebwoy now joins a list of major international and African artistes linked to performances at the 12,500-capacity OVO Arena Wembley, including Beyoncé, Madonna, Prince, Burna Boy and others.

Stonebwoy has steadily taken BHIM FEST beyond Ghana since establishing the festival as one of the major platforms associated with his BHIM Nation movement.

And if the dramatic entrance was anything to go by, Stonebwoy was determined to make sure London did not merely attend BHIM FEST.

In a strongly worded commentary, Socrate said he recently came across a movie being aired on OBTV and decided to make enquiries about whether the station had secured the appropriate rights to broadcast the production.

He said his checks with the Copyright Office raised concerns about the licensing of audiovisual content on the station.

Socrate argued that owning a television station does not automatically give a broadcaster the right to air movies, stressing that filmmakers and other rights holders must be properly compensated for the use of their works.

His comments took a humorous turn as he questioned why the spiritual guidance often associated with Prophet Obinim had seemingly not extended to copyright matters.

“How come the Holy Spirit, or whatever spiritual power he believes in, has not whispered anything to him about copyright? Prayer does not replace a copyright licence. Anointing oil does not constitute permission from a filmmaker,” he said.

Beyond OBTV, Socrate said he had also examined other television stations affiliated with pastors and churches, suggesting that copyright compliance within religious broadcasting deserved greater attention.

He noted that Ghana’s creative industry continues to face challenges in monetising locally produced content and argued that broadcasters have a responsibility to respect the intellectual property of filmmakers.

Socrate also pointed to the work of the Copyright Monitoring Team, which is tasked with monitoring copyright works and investigating suspected infringement.

He said religious broadcasters should lead by example by obtaining the necessary permissions before airing films and other copyrighted material.

In a statement shared on social media, Shallipopi said his agreement with Dapper in 2023 was strictly for management and did not authorise the executive to enter into a 10-year distribution deal on his behalf.

He alleged that Dapper later forged his signature and attached it to a 10-year distribution contract, despite the singer already using DistroKid to distribute his music.

Shallipopi further claimed that his signature was allegedly forged a second time to facilitate an agreement with international music company Virgin Music Group.

The singer accused Dapper of receiving money from Virgin Music Group under the arrangement and allegedly failing to account to him for the funds.

He said he was instead encouraged to continue producing music on the assurance that his financial returns would come in the future.

Shallipopi said he was not making the allegations simply to engage in an online dispute, insisting that he had personally approached the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and submitted a statement regarding the matter.

He called on the EFCC, the Nigerian government, the media and the wider African public to take the allegations seriously.

The latest accusations add to an ongoing dispute between Shallipopi and Dapper Music. The singer ended his relationship with the company in December 2024, citing concerns over finances, transparency and his contractual rights. Dapper Music subsequently rejected the allegations and said it had provided accounting records and was cooperating with auditors engaged by the artiste.

Dapper has yet to publicly respond to Shallipopi’s latest allegations of signature forgery and the alleged receipt of funds from Virgin Music Group. The claims remain allegations and have not been independently established.

In a lengthy social media post, the artiste revealed that he deliberately turned down bookings and refunded payments for engagements he had already accepted as he took time away from the public eye.

According to Ara-B, the decision was part of a personal purpose he had set for himself, which he said was still unfolding.

He explained that during the two-year period, he did not release music or grant interviews, choosing instead to remain away from the industry while focusing on what he described as a bigger mission.

Ara-B said he is now returning with renewed and powerful energy, attributing his comeback to God and the guidance he has received during his period away.

He thanked his family and a few close individuals who continued to support him despite his absence.

Declaring himself “fully active” again, the artiste said he is now open for business and ready to resume his career.

The recognition celebrates the collaboration between the two gospel musicians, which has attracted attention for its message of hope, comfort and faith.

“Ahoto (Comfort)” was among the nominees for the Best International Collaboration category at the 2026 Ghana Music Awards USA.

Meanwhile, the song competed against other notable collaborations, including “GhanaStar” by Real Kings featuring Kofi Jamar, “Wodo (Your Love)” by Gifty K featuring Piesie Esther, “Grace” by Dr. Ama Kutin featuring Chisha, and “I Will Love You” by Enoch Boateng featuring Efe Grace.

The award adds to the growing recognition of Mz Nana’s work in Ghanaian gospel music. She was also nominated in the Gospel Artiste of the Year category alongside artistes including Royal Mama, Dr. Ama Kutin, Brother Ishmael, Cee Music, Millicent Yankey, HTSongz and Herty Corgie.

Mz Nana and Obaapa Christy released “Ahoto (Comfort)” on December 24, 2025. The song was presented as a worship and inspirational piece centred on hope, reassurance, renewal and divine peace.

Nonetheless, the collaboration also brought together two generations of Ghanaian gospel music, combining Mz Nana’s contemporary approach with Obaapa Christy’s established presence in the gospel music space.

According to Mz Nana, who is also the CEO of Nayak Beauty Supply, the song’s title, Ahoto, means “Comfort”, reflecting its central message of encouragement and spiritual reassurance.

The 2026 Ghana Music Awards USA nominations were unveiled at an event held at The Octopus, Kumasi City Mall, on April 30, 2026. The awards scheme featured 35 categories, with 24 focused on US-based Ghanaian acts and 11 recognising artistes and achievements in Ghana. Organisers said the awards are intended to strengthen the connection between Ghana’s music industry and its diaspora community in the United States.

Mz Nana’s win therefore represents another milestone for Ghanaian gospel music and highlights the growing international reach of collaborations between established and emerging voices in the genre.

The veteran actor said he found people in Kumasi to be more down-to-earth and approachable compared with those in Accra.

Ramsey Nouah made the comments during an interview on Angel FM after arriving in Kumasi to feature in an upcoming movie by Ghanaian actor and comedian Kwadwo Nkansah Lil Win.

Drawing a comparison between Ghana’s two major cities and Nigeria’s Lagos and Abuja, the actor described Accra as a city associated with wealth and a “big boy” lifestyle, while he likened Kumasi to Lagos, which he characterised as a hub for hustlers and entrepreneurs.

“Accra is more like a place for the big boys, but Kumasi is for hustlers and entrepreneurs. People are more down-to-earth in Kumasi than in Accra,” he said.

He explained that his observation was based on the different lifestyles and attitudes he had encountered in the two cities.

“Lagos is the hustlers’ place. Abuja is the people that are eating and enjoying the big money, and they act like they are the big boys. Lagos are more like the entrepreneurs. It feels like the same thing here,” he said.

Ramsey Nouah further cited an interaction during his interview as an example of what he perceived to be the difference between the two cities.

He noted that the interviewer’s suggestion to take one of their colleagues out for fufu reflected what he considered to be Kumasi’s more down-to-earth character.

“You want to take my sister to eat fufu; now in Accra they won’t take her to eat fufu, they’ll take her to an expensive place like La Chaumière,” he said.

Ramsey Nouah is currently in Kumasi to feature in Kwadwo Nkansah Lil Win’s upcoming movie.

Watch the video below:

“Accra is more like a place for the big boys, but Kumasi is for hustlers and entrepreneurs. People are more down-to-earth in Kumasi than in Accra.”

— Nigerian actor and film director Ramsey Nouah during an interview on Angel FM after arriving in Kumasi to feature in Kwadwo… pic.twitter.com/6iecTXNU2L

— 𝐀𝐒𝐊 (@askghmedia) August 14, 2026

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The actor said he is still struggling to come to terms with the death and is uncertain how long it will take him to fully overcome the grief.

In a video shared on his social media pages on August 13, 2026, IK Ogbonna expressed gratitude to fans, friends and family members for their support, prayers and kind words during the difficult period.

“I just want to say thank you to everyone that has shown support with your love, prayers and kind words. It has not been easy,” he said.

He acknowledged that the grieving process had been difficult and said he hoped time would eventually help him heal.

“I don’t know if this is something I would ever be out of, but I pray that with time, I will be able to get out of it,” he added.

According to the actor, Alexx Ekubo’s death has deeply affected not only him but also the late actor’s family, friends and fans.

“It’s been a very crazy period for not just myself but for friends, fans and family of Alexx. His death is a big blow, honestly,” he stated.

IK Ogbonna explained that the emotional toll of the loss has also affected his social media activity over the past three months.

“For the past three months, I have not been very active on my social media; it’s not like I don’t want to, but I guess it’s a psychological thing,” he said.

He revealed that although he continues to take photographs and record videos, he often lacks the motivation to share them with his followers.

“I will make pictures and videos, but I don’t have the zeal to post them,” he explained.

Despite his grief, the actor acknowledged the need to gradually resume his professional activities and return to his usual routine.

He said he intends to get back to work and social media activities as he continues to process the loss.

“We have to get back to work somehow, someway,” IK Ogbonna said.

Watch the video below:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ikechukwu Mitchel Ogbonna 🇳🇬 (@ikogbonna)

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The team secured the title after defeating the Ministry of Defence in an exciting encounter at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The match was decided by a stunning free-kick goal, with the Gender Ministry side holding their nerve to claim victory and lift the trophy.

The football triumph formed part of a broader week of activities organised to commemorate the 2026 Civil Service Week, which brought together Ministries, Departments and Agencies under the theme, “The Resetting Agenda for Sustainable Development in Ghana: The Civil Service’s Responsibilities.”

The celebration focused on the role of the Civil Service in turning government policies into practical development outcomes, while encouraging professionalism, teamwork, innovation and improved public service.

Beyond the football tournament, the Gender Ministry participated in several activities throughout the week.

Management and staff took part in a clean-up exercise at the ministry’s premises and surrounding areas, highlighting the importance of workplace cleanliness and environmental sanitation.

The ministry also showcased its work at the Civil Service Policy Fair and Exhibition at the Accra Sports Stadium, where members of the public and other participants had the opportunity to learn about its programmes, policies and interventions in gender, children and social protection.

The Chief Director, Dr. Marian W. A. Kpakpah, visited the ministry’s exhibition booth, interacting with staff and reviewing the initiatives and materials on display.

Adding a lighter touch to the celebrations, the ministry joined forces with the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition for the cooking competition, where the teams prepared fufu with goat light soup.

The women’s football victory therefore provided a fitting competitive finish to the ministry’s participation in a week that combined service, teamwork, community engagement and institutional collaboration.

During the visit, the family formally invited the Sports Minister to the one week observance being held in honour of the late patriarch on August 21, 2026.

Asamoah Gyan announced the death of his father on Friday, July 24, 2026, in an emotional social media tribute.

The late George Gyan Baffour Mensah was 82. The exact circumstances and date of his death were not immediately disclosed.

Sharing a photograph of his father, Asamoah Gyan expressed gratitude for the role he played in his life and acknowledged the support he received from him throughout his journey.

“I’m happy you saw my greatness, Dad. Thank you for taking good care of us. You will forever be in our hearts. R.I.P. (ASASE J).”

The tribute reflected the close bond between the football legend and his father, who lived to see his son’s rise from a young footballer to one of Ghana’s most celebrated footballers.

The musician made the remarks during an appearance on Madam Joyce’s Cocktails and Takeaways podcast, where he discussed stereotypes surrounding Ghanaian men and their approach to spending on women.

Stonebwoy said the widely held perception that Ghanaian men are unwilling to spend should instead be understood as a reflection of their ability to assess their financial situation before committing to expenses.

“Ghana boys are not stingy, we have seen the narrative you guys have been putting out there, now if you go on Google, it’s registered,” he said.

According to the artiste, some men are labelled stingy because they are unable to meet financial demands that exceed what they can afford.

“I think to be very honest, ladies of today want men to spend weytin them no have,” he said.

Stonebwoy advised men to be realistic about their financial capacity and avoid making promises they cannot fulfil.

He also encouraged men who genuinely want to treat their partners or loved ones to honour commitments they voluntarily make, while being prepared to accept the financial consequences.

The dancehall artiste compared the spending habits of Ghanaian and Nigerian men, suggesting that Nigerian men are generally more willing to take financial risks when spending on women.

He, however, stressed that the decision to spend money on a partner ultimately depends on an individual’s priorities, financial capacity and willingness to bear the consequences of such choices.

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“My new movie ‘Ama’ has no single dot of English” – McBrown

The dancehall star gave a special shoutout to the group, mentioning journalist Becky and acknowledging the work the media house continues to do in promoting Ghanaian talent.

Stonebwoy said the support from the media goes beyond him personally, insisting that promoting Ghanaian artistes is ultimately about pushing the country’s creative industry forward.

“I love and appreciate the efforts that you put into Ghana. It’s not just for me. If it is just for me, would you mind me? It’s for Ghana now.”

He also extended his appreciation to the Creative Arts Council, event supporters and those who have backed his journey, particularly Dean Mason, whom he credited for constantly pushing and encouraging him to keep going.

The artiste also had a message for fans who have bought tickets to BHIMFEST, describing their support as more than simply paying to attend a concert.

For him, every ticket purchased represents a vote of confidence in Ghanaian entertainment and contributes to the bigger picture of taking local music further.

“That is your contributed quota to what is happening and that is how you can boast and speak to the fact that Ghanaians, we got to go further and further.”

Stonebwoy believes the continued support of Ghanaian artistes can help create stars whose achievements will give the country something to celebrate on the global stage.

“One day, we’ll come back here as great superstars that you can point to and be proud of. This guy comes from my country.”

He ended by inviting fans to join him at BHIMFEST on Saturday, promising another celebration of Ghanaian music and culture.

The actor addressed the controversy during a TikTok Live session on Thursday evening, August 13, 2026, where he acknowledged that he is the person seen in the videos and spoke about the emotional toll the situation has taken on him.

Oteele said the development has been difficult to deal with, admitting that the pressure surrounding the viral content has affected his appetite and overall wellbeing.

He explained that some close friends and well-wishers encouraged him to go live and interact with his followers as a way of taking his mind off the situation and easing the pressure.

Despite the backlash and public attention, Oteele said he was trying to remain strong as he navigates the difficult period.

The actor also expressed regret over the situation and indicated that he intends to seek the help of prominent individuals to approach his wife and lead him in apologizing to her.

His wife, in a separate video, disclosed she has chosen to let bygones be and continue supporting her husband.

Speaking on Cruise Control with Mercury Quaye and Maame Adwoa Akotaah on Hitz FM, McBrown said the film was fully scripted in Twi, with the cast required to strictly follow the written dialogue throughout production.

She said the decision was part of the film’s creative direction and was intended to allow the story to be told authentically in Ghana’s local language.

“It’s a typical Ghanaian movie with no single dot of English. The script was scripted in Twi. We went according to the dialogues as in the lines of the script. We never compromised on that,” she said.

Speaking about the plot, McBrown revealed that the story centres on a young girl with dreams and aspirations of her own, whose parents attempt to impose their decisions on her instead of guiding her.

“The story is about a young girl who has a vision, but sometimes your parents want you to do what they want, forgetting that they need to guide you and not impose their decisions on you,” she said.

McBrown explained that Ama explores themes including forced marriage, honesty, tradition, parental guidance and the laws of the country, presenting issues that remain relevant to Ghanaian society.

She also revealed that the film features predominantly new actors, with herself and actor-comedian Dr Likee being the only established faces in the cast.

“One thing I love about the movie is that it has new faces, myself and Likee are the only popular faces in the movie,” she revealed.

McBrown said the decision to work with new talent was inspired by the opportunity she received at the beginning of her own career.

She recalled that Miracle Films gave her an opportunity in 2001, which helped launch her career in the Ghanaian film industry.

“I had the opportunity 25 years ago in 2001 from Miracle Films and I am always proud talking about him,” she recounted.

“I want somebody to feel that way about me too,” she said, explaining her desire to create opportunities for emerging actors just as someone once did for her.

Ama is scheduled to premiere on Saturday, 15 August 2026, as part of activities marking McBrown’s 25th anniversary in Ghana’s entertainment industry.

He boasted that he is ready to bet $1 million on a hit battle with any Nigerian artiste who can challenge him.

The Omo Baba Olowo crooner challenged his colleagues to a hit contest during a recent livestream with streamer Davrel.

“I will put $1 million cash on the table. Nobody has more hits than me,” he said.

Davido is one of the most prolific hitmakers in the Nigerian music industry, alongside contemporaries such as Wizkid, Olamide, Burna Boy, Tekno and Runtown.

No artiste has publicly accepted his challenge as of the time of filing this report.

DAILY POST recalls that Burna Boy made a similar challenge during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020.

Former Mavin star, Reekado Banks, was the only artiste who accepted the challenge, but he was turned down by Burna Boy, who said he wasn’t “a worthy challenger.”

Shareholders are claiming the pop star failed to fulfil promises that she would be “actively building” the brand, saying her “abject dereliction of her duties” has left the company in a “state of financial calamity”.

The lawsuit seeks to recover around $1.2m (£890,000) it claims was invested as well as costs and damages.

The BBC has contacted Wondermind and Gomez’s representatives for comment.

Gomez, who rose to fame as a child actor before moving into pop music, set up the mental health platform five years ago with her mother Mandy Teefey and businesswoman Daniella Pierson. It came after Gomez publicly discussed her own mental health struggles, including with bipolar disorder.

The 34-year-old is one of the most-followed women in the world on social media, with over 500 million followers, and an estimated net worth of nearly $1bn. She also founded cosmetics company Rare Beauty, in 2020, which is closely associated with her name and image.

Wondermind aimed to make mental health-related content more accessible through a digital platform, recruiting investors to back the venture.

But the lawsuit claims Wondermind’s founders “falsely represented” their position by suggesting “a full slate” of ad deals, celebrity cover stories, an app and other initiatives were already underway and promising that Gomez would take an active role as its head of marketing.

“Gomez purported ‌to ⁠sign a contract obligating her to perform and then ignored it,” the lawsuit claims.

Gomez is currently listed as a co-founder on Wonderminds website, below her mother who is now in the chief executive role, following Pierson’s departure from the company.

The individuals behind the suit, based in New York and Florida, include Brent Saunders, chief executive of eye-health company Bausch + Lomb.

The claimants’ lawsuit alleges Wondermind failed to meet “even its most basic obligations, such as timely paying its employees and vendors”.

Promises including Wondermind’s partnerships and app never materialised, according to the claim.

“For three years, while the company quietly collapsed around them, not one of its founders, officers, or directors said a word to the investors whose money was funding the collapse,” the complaint states.

They said they were unaware of the company’s difficulties until an investigative news story by the online magazine, The Cut, surfaced in September 2025.

That report made allegations about Wondermind’s finances and issues with its management, according to the lawsuit.

The article showed that “Wondermind had no plan for its future – much less a plan for achieving a multi-billion dollar valuation,” the lawsuit claims.

The event, dubbed “Togbe Afrika Homecoming,” is expected to bring together music lovers, traditional leaders, young people, entertainment personalities and residents from across the Volta Region.

The concert will also feature Ghanaian female artiste Enam and versatile rapper Jah Phinga, alongside other emerging talents from the region.

Togbe Afrika, who began his music career around 1997, is returning to the stage after nearly two decades away from active music.

He is remembered for his hiplife hit “Danye Sidzima” and gospel-oriented songs including “Menyabe Awoenam.”

According to the musician, the decision to stage his comeback concert in Dzodze-Penyi is a return to his roots, having grown up in the area and received part of his basic education there.

He said the homecoming is also an opportunity to reconnect with his community, seek the blessings of traditional leaders and formally introduce plans for a broader programme focused on music, education, entrepreneurship and international opportunities for young people.

Beyond entertainment, the event is expected to focus on youth empowerment, with Togbe Afrika seeking to encourage young people to avoid drug abuse, alcoholism and other destructive behaviours.

He also plans to use the platform to create awareness about international education opportunities, including scholarships in Indonesia.

Togbe Afrika, who serves as Honorary Consul of Indonesia to Ghana, said he wants young people to explore education, skills development, entrepreneurship and international opportunities as pathways to a better future.

He also intends to support emerging musicians through ROIS Music Productions by providing mentorship and assistance in songwriting, music production and career development.

The homecoming will provide a platform for artistes from Dzodze-Penyi, Aflao-Denu, Agbozume-Klikor, Akatsi-Abor and Ave Dakpa to showcase their talents.

Organisers expect about 4,000 patrons at the event, which is being powered by ROIS Travels, with ROIS TV as the official media partner.

The organisers say the Dzodze-Penyi event will be the first in a series of homecoming programmes planned across the Volta Region before the launch of the Togbe Afrika University Campus Tour in November.

The campus tour will combine music, education, tourism, entrepreneurship and global opportunities, beginning in the Volta Region before expanding to other tertiary institutions across Ghana.

Togbe Afrika is calling on residents, traditional leaders, businesses, corporate organisations, development partners and other stakeholders to support the initiative and help promote the region’s music, culture, tourism and youth development.

Togbe Afrika Homecoming
Date: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Venue: Infinity Stars Hotel, Penyi
Featuring: Togbe Afrika, Enam, Jah Phinga and other Volta artistes
Powered by: ROIS Travels
Media Partner: ROIS TV

The musician revealed that he sold pure water, food and rubber bags as a young boy while growing up in Dome, Accra, following the death of his mother at an early age.

Shedding more light on his childhood in an interview on Joy Prime, Ras Kuuku, born Kojo Kurankye, said he was raised by his aunt, who despite making him engage in petty trading, ensured that his education remained a priority.

He recalled moving from Dome to Nungua Presby where he later continuing his education, while taking on various jobs to support himself.

Ras Kuuku also recalled an unusual aspect of his early education, explaining that he skipped some classes before eventually returning to class two so he could be in the same class as his aunt’s son.

Despite the difficulties, Ras Kuuku said he never abandoned his ambitions. At the time, his biggest dream was to become a footballer, and he described himself as a talented bowler who took the sport seriously.

Music, however, would eventually become the path that changed his fortunes.

The young boy who once sold pure water, food and rubber bags in Dome has gone on to build a career in reggae-dancehall and earn recognition as one of Ghana’s notable artistes.

Watch video below:

In an interview on Joy Prime, Ras Kuuku explained that the level of hostility among politicians is one of the main reasons he has no interest in seeking public office.

According to him, politics is usually characterized by a level of animosity and deliberate character smear and propaganda which he finds unattractive.

He argued that political opponents often turn against each other despite belonging to the same communities and even worshipping together.

“I don’t think there’s anybody who has sat on TV or something and dissed Raskuku. But when it comes to politics, you know there’s hatred. People hate each other too much, and later you see them go to church.”

Ras Kuuku specifically pointed to the rivalry between Ghana’s major political parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), saying the divisions can follow people even into places of worship.

The musician maintained that even if his community approached him to represent them in Parliament, he would still decline because he does not want to become involved in the political environment.

His position, however, does not mean he has withdrawn from civic participation.

Ras Kuuku said he votes during elections because he wants to be actively involved in the selection of a befitting leader.

For Ras Kuuku, therefore, participating in Ghana’s democracy is important, but seeking political office is a line he does not intend to cross.

Watch video below:

The actress shared details of the latest cosmetic treatment on social media, saying she chose the procedure as part of her personal approach to maintaining her appearance.

According to Ogbodo, the treatment involved threads, fillers and PDO, which she said were intended to lift and restore facial volume, smooth lines and give her a fresher, more youthful appearance without undergoing surgery.

Explaining her decision, the actress said she believes in taking action when there is something about herself she wants to improve rather than simply complaining about it.

Ogbodo stressed that she loves her natural appearance and herself but sees cosmetic procedures as one of the options available to people who want to enhance certain features.

The latest revelation comes after the actress previously made her liposuction procedure public, openly sharing aspects of her experience with her followers.

Her willingness to discuss cosmetic procedures has continued to generate conversations about beauty, body confidence and the increasing use of aesthetic treatments among celebrities.

For Ogbodo, however, the procedures are part of a personal choice to feel confident and comfortable with her appearance.

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The launch took place on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Alabaster International Ministry in Accra, ahead of the main event scheduled for September 13, 2026.

This year’s 13th edition will be held at the Royal House Chapel (Oil Dome) under the theme “Altar of Fire” which draws on the biblical imagery in Leviticus 6:13.

Speaking at the launch, Ohemaa Mercy said the experience is designed to create an atmosphere where patrons can connect with God through worship, prayer and music.

The event will feature a strong line-up of gospel ministers from Ghana and beyond, including Sonnie Badu, Francis Amo, Kofi Owusu Peprah, Ceccy Twum, Mr M and Revelation from Nigeria, and Michael Mahandre from Zimbabwe, among others.

Gospel musician Francis Amo, who is part of this year’s line-up, encouraged patrons to attend with great expectation, expressing confidence that the event would provide an opportunity for worshippers to encounter the power of God.

Over the years, the Tehillah Experience has grown into one of Ohemaa Mercy’s major annual gospel events, attracting worshippers for a spiritual fellowship.

With the 2026 edition themed “Altar of Fire,” organisers are expecting another significant gathering when the event takes place on September 13.

As the family moves to revive a business Beverly worked hard to build, GH¢1 from every shawarma sold will be donated to the Breast Cancer Centre at Korle Bu.

In announcing the initiative, ChoirMaster said the decision was inspired by Beverly’s vision and the family’s desire to ensure that her work continues to make an impact beyond her lifetime.

“A dream she worked hard to build. Now, it is our responsibility to make sure that dream continues, grows and becomes a household name and a lasting legacy.”

He has consequently invited colleagues in the entertainment industry, media personalities, friends, family and members of the public to support the initiative by patronising the business and helping spread the word.

Every contribution, however small, is part of keeping Beverly’s legacy alive while helping others.

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The singer paused the performance and addressed the situation directly from the stage, warning against repeated unruly behaviour.

This was after his crew attempted to block fans from accessing the perimeter of the stage which is out of bounds.

Davido reminded the audience that members of his crew had been working throughout the day to put the concert together and said he would not allow anyone to mistreat them.

“Don’t disrespect my staff. If you do that again, I will walk off this stage,” he charged.

The brief interruption did not appear to derail the concert, as Davido returned his attention to the performance after addressing the incident.

The moment has since attracted attention online, with fans applauding the singer’s decision to pause the show and publicly stand up for a member of his team.

In a heartfelt message shared on behalf of the family, Violin Bless Ayebea Boadu Baah acknowledged the emotional weight of laying their mother to rest and thanked all well-wishers for their presence and support.

“It was a very difficult time, but having you by our side brought us grace and strength.”

She said the family was deeply touched by the kindness and support shown throughout the funeral rites, adding that their presence meant more than words could adequately express.

The family also thanked those who travelled, reached out, offered prayers and supported them in various ways as they mourned Beverly.

Violin further prayed for blessings upon everyone who supported the family.

Beverly Afaglo passed away on May 24, 2026, aged 42, just days before her 43rd birthday. She was survived by her husband and two children.

Her final funeral rites were held at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra, following an earlier funeral service in Laurel, Maryland, in the United States.

The family has now begun the difficult period of coming to terms with her absence, while continuing to appreciate the outpouring of support that accompanied her final farewell.

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For nearly a decade, the Kumasi-based producer has focused on creating music that can connect African artists and sounds with audiences beyond the continent.

His growing production portfolio includes work associated with artistes such as Kuami Eugene, Wendy Shay, King Paluta, Lasmid, Kweku DMC, O’Kenneth, Cubana Chief Priest and Spyki.

But for Mirakilouz Beatz, music production is only one part of the bigger picture.

As an A&R at Tieme Music Distribution, he is also involved in identifying and nurturing talent, mentoring artistes and helping independent musicians navigate opportunities within the fast-changing music industry.

With the African music market expanding globally, Mirakilouz Beatz says his ambitions extend beyond producing hit records.

He is working towards establishing one of Africa’s leading music production brands, developing digital platforms that can create new opportunities for artistes and mentoring the next generation of music producers.

With close to a decade of experience, a growing list of production credits and an expanding role within the music business, Mirakilouz Beatz is positioning himself as a producer and music executive with ambitions that stretch well beyond Ghana.

His journey from Kumasi reflects a broader shift in Ghana’s music industry, where producers are increasingly moving beyond the studio to become entrepreneurs, talent developers and key players in the global music ecosystem.

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The preacher is currently receiving treatment at the emergency unit of the unnamed facility, according to reports.

News of his hospitalisation has generated concern among members of his church, fellow ministers and others familiar with his work.

Fellow preacher Seer 1 General, who visited Prophet Badu Kobi at the hospital, has since shared an update on his condition and appealed to leaders to urgently intervene.

Meanwhile, a delegation led by Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, representing President John Dramani Mahama, has visited the preacher at the hospital following reports of his collapse.

As of now, no detailed medical information has been released regarding what led to his hospitalisation or the nature of the treatment he is receiving.

Further updates are expected as his condition becomes clearer.

The visit took place during the Awukudae Festival and provided an opportunity for the music icon to formally present his literary work to the Asante royal household.

Kojo Antwi presented 300 copies of the book to Otumfuo and 50 copies to the Asantehemaa.

During his meeting with the Asantehene, the musician also disclosed that he intends to launch his next album at Manhyia Palace in honour of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

Although a date for the album launch has not yet been announced, Kojo Antwi assured the Asantehene that the project would be launched in his presence.

After his meeting with Otumfuo, the musician visited the Asantehemaa to congratulate her on her enstoolment and presented copies of his memoir to her.

Kojo Antwi was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Rocklyn Antwi, and ace broadcaster Dr Kwame Adinkrah.

The visit brought together two prominent figures in Ghanaian culture and highlighted the enduring connection between the country’s traditional institutions and its creative arts community.

Mr Music Man: The Journey, which was launched in February 2026, chronicles Kojo Antwi’s life, musical career and experiences spanning decades in Ghana’s entertainment industry.

The memoir traces his journey from his formative years to his emergence as one of Ghana’s most influential and celebrated musicians.

It also reflects on his experiences in the music industry, the people he encountered and the evolution of his artistry over the years.

Kojo Antwi previously explained that his decision to document his life was partly motivated by concerns that many African music legends had left behind few written accounts of their experiences.

He said the memoir was intended to preserve his story and contribute to the historical record of African music.

The musician has enjoyed a career spanning highlife, Afropop and reggae influences, with his music attracting audiences in Ghana and across the African continent.

His meeting with Otumfuo therefore carried significance beyond the presentation of a book, representing an encounter between two important aspects of Ghanaian heritage—the Asante traditional institution and the country’s rich musical tradition.

The Awukudae Festival provided a fitting setting for the engagement, bringing together traditional authorities, dignitaries and members of the public.

For Kojo Antwi, presenting his memoir to the Asantehene was also an opportunity to share a record of his personal and musical journey with one of Ghana’s foremost custodians of culture and tradition.

Omotola’s daughter Meraiah gets engaged in romantic beachside proposal [Video]

Tema Mayor, MP donate towards Homowo celebrations

Muzic Mensah is nominated for Best Diaspora Highlife Artist of the Year with voting code DZ60.

He also earns a nomination for Best Diaspora Collaboration of the Year for “Akwanoma,” his collaboration with Ghanaian rapper Kwame Yogot, which has been assigned voting code DZ5.

The two nominations recognise Muzic Mensah’s work as a Ghanaian artiste based in the United States while highlighting his involvement in collaborations that connect Ghanaian musicians across borders.

Two categories, two voting codes

For the Best Diaspora Highlife Artist of the Year category, supporters can vote for Muzic Mensah using code DZ60.

His “Akwanoma” collaboration with Kwame Yogot is competing in the Best Diaspora Collaboration of the Year category under code DZ5.

Fans can vote by dialing 447714#, selecting the voting option, entering the relevant nominee code and following the prompts to complete their vote.

Voting is also available through the official Ghana Music Awards Europe website.

Recognition for Ghanaian talent abroad

The Ghana Music Awards Europe recognises Ghanaian musicians and industry players contributing to the growth and promotion of Ghanaian music within the diaspora.

For Muzic Mensah, the double nomination puts his work in the spotlight across two categories, particularly his representation of Ghanaian Highlife from his base in the United States.

His collaboration with Kwame Yogot also demonstrates the continued musical link between Ghanaian artistes at home and those building careers abroad.

With two nominations secured, Muzic Mensah will be hoping to garner enough support to emerge as a winner at the Ghana Music Awards Europe 2026.

Omotola’s daughter Meraiah gets engaged in romantic beachside proposal [Video]

I’ve been separated from my husband since April 1, 2025 – Tima Kumkum confirms

Meraiah shared the news on social media with a series of videos capturing moments from the engagement.

Her partner proposed to her in a romantic beachside setting with an enormous diamong ring

The videos offer glimpses of the special occasion, with Meraiah appearing to celebrate the milestone surrounded by the excitement and warmth that came with the occasion.

She accompanied the post with a simple but significant caption: “New chapter.”

The announcement has since drawn attention from fans and followers, particularly those who have followed Meraiah’s journey from her early years in the public eye to her emergence as a young woman building a life and identity of her own.

As the daughter of one of Nigeria’s most recognisable actresses, Meraiah has grown up with considerable public interest in her life. She has, however, carved out her own presence beyond her mother’s fame, particularly through her interests in fashion, beauty and lifestyle.

Watch video below:

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She revealed exclusively in an interview on Joy Prime that she and her husband have been living separately since April 1, 2025, with their divorce currently before the court.

Tima said she had deliberately kept the matter private because she did not want to discuss the reasons behind the separation publicly. However, amid persistent questions about her relationship status, she decided to address the issue herself.

“We don’t live together. I’m unbothered by any criticism. We need to call a spade a spade. You can’t hide it forever. When I was getting married everyone saw it so if it has ended, they need to know”

Tima described herself as “partially single”, explaining that although they are separated, she is not legally divorced yet.

The couple got married on July 15, 2023, in a ceremony that attracted considerable public attention, including on social media. Tima admitted that she never imagined the marriage would eventually end.

Despite the separation, she acknowledged her husband’s role as a father, describing him as a responsible parent who continues to take care of their child.

On the question of custody, she indicated that the matter was being handled appropriately.

Tima also spoke about her healing process, admitting that the experience had not been easy but she has gradually been doing better.

She recalled that some of the public reactions to wedding-related content on social media had affected her, particularly because many people were unaware that she and her husband had already separated.

Now, she says the remaining step is largely the legal process.

At this stage of her life, marriage is the last thing on her mind, as she chooses instead to focus on the present and allow the future to unfold.

As she turns 39 next month, she said she remains hopeful about what lies ahead, even as she waits for the court process to formally bring the marriage to an end.

Watch full video below:

But that perception is gradually changing.

From actors and musicians to television personalities and beauty queens, a growing number of people from Ghana’s entertainment and creative industries have ventured into politics, contesting parliamentary elections, accepting government appointments and, in some cases, securing seats in Parliament.

Their journeys have not all ended in victory. Some have won elections and risen through the political ranks, while others have contested repeatedly without success.

But their participation has challenged a long-standing assumption that political leadership belongs exclusively to traditional political actors.

Here are 11 entertainment personalities in Ghana who made that leap.

1. John Dumelo

Perhaps one of the most high-profile recent examples is actor John Dumelo.

For years, Dumelo was one of Ghana’s most recognisable faces in film, building a career that gave him a large following both locally and internationally.

He made his screen debut as a child actor in Baby Thief (1991) and went on to build a career of 80+ films across Ghana and Nollywood, with notable credits including The Perfect Picture and its sequel The Maidens, A Northern Affair, The King Is Mine, 4Play, and TV soaps Sun City and About to Wed.

He also won Best Actor West Africa at FESPACO 2017.

Dumelo first contested the Ayawaso West Wuogon parliamentary seat on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2020 general election but narrowly lost to the New Patriotic Party’s Lydia Seyram Alhassan.

Four years later, he returned to the constituency and secured a decisive victory.

In the 2024 general election, Dumelo won the Ayawaso West Wuogon seat, defeating his previous opponent and completing a transition from one of Ghana’s best-known actors to an elected legislator.

Dumelo has since taken on a government role as Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, further expanding his journey from entertainment into national governance.

2. Abla Dzifa Gomashie

Abla Dzifa Gomashie represents another long-standing connection between Ghana’s creative arts and politics.

A veteran actress, producer and screenwriter, Gomashie began her acting career in 1985 with the Talents Theatre Company.

He was in stage plays like Black Star, Mambo, Chaka the Zulu, Jogolo, and The Third Woman. Her film credits include Ghost Tears, House of Pain, and Heart of Gold. She also wrote and produced the GTV children’s storytelling programme By the Fireside.

Her career in the creative arts eventually intersected with government when she was appointed Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts in 2013.

She later entered electoral politics and became Member of Parliament for Ketu South on the NDC ticket.

Her career has continued to bridge both worlds. She is now Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts while serving as MP for Ketu South.

3. A-Plus

Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A-Plus, has followed another route.

The hiplife musician and outspoken political commentator was already known for his strong views on national affairs before entering electoral politics.

His debut album was Freedom of Speech (2000), with the politically charged hit “Mesuro Mpo Na Merekeka Yi O.” It was followed by Freedom of Speech II (2001), and later hits like “Mframa” (2012) and “Abɛn Bɛ Bom” (2016). He is also known for the controversial track “Letter to Parliament.”

In the 2024 general election, he contested the Gomoa Central parliamentary seat as an independent candidate and won, securing his place in Parliament.

His victory was notable because it came outside the traditional two-party structure that has dominated Ghanaian parliamentary politics.

4. Grace Omaboe (Maame Dokono)

For veteran actress Grace Omaboe, popularly known as Maame Dokono, the journey into politics began much earlier.

Known for her iconic roles in Ghanaian television, particularly Obra and By the Fireside, Maame Dokono became a household name long before she entered electoral politics.

She also starred in over 50 movies across her career, notable among them are Kwaku Ananse (2013), Children of the Mountain (2016), My Very Ghanaian Wedding (2017), and P Over D (2019).

She first contested the Birim North parliamentary seat on the ticket of the NDC in 2000. She later returned to contest the same seat on the NPP ticket, but was unsuccessful on both occasions.

Her political journey demonstrates that celebrity recognition does not automatically translate into electoral victory.

Despite her popularity, she faced the same realities that confront other political candidates: party structures, constituency dynamics, competition and voter preferences.

By 2018, Maame Dokono indicated that she no longer intended to remain actively involved in politics.

5. Bice Osei Kuffour (Obour)

For hiplife musician Bice Osei Kuffour, popularly known as Obour, the decision to enter politics was rooted in a desire to contribute to the change he wanted to see in society.

His albums include Atentenben, Akademu, Dondo and Atumpan, with hit singles “Nana Obour,” “Konkontiba” (featuring Samini), “Shine Your Eye,” and “Oko Aba.” He swept five awards at the 2005 Ghana Music Awards.

The former President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) publicly announced his political ambitions in January 2020 when he declared his intention to contest the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primary in the Asante Akyem South Constituency.

Obour’s move was significant because he was not only a well-known musician but had also served as the leader of Ghana’s umbrella body for musicians, giving him extensive experience engaging with issues affecting the creative industry.

However, his first attempt to enter Parliament ended in defeat.

In the NPP’s 2020 parliamentary primary, he contested the incumbent Member of Parliament, Kwaku Asante Boateng. Obour polled 280 votes, representing 32.86 per cent, while the incumbent secured 522 votes, representing 61.27 per cent.

He was subsequently appointed Secretary to the NPP 2020 Campaign Ashanti Region Advertising Committee.

His political journey took another turn in December 2021 when President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo appointed him Acting Managing Director of Ghana Post.

In the 2024 NPP parliamentary primaries, Obour again challenged Kwaku Asante Boateng for the Asante Akyem South candidacy. The incumbent once again secured the party’s nomination, leaving Obour without a parliamentary ticket.

Despite the repeated defeats, Obour has maintained that his decision to enter politics was driven by his belief in change rather than simply the pursuit of political office.

6. Sena Okity-Duah

Benita Sena Okity-Duah’s political journey also began outside traditional politics.

After winning the Miss Ghana crown in 1997, Okity-Duah built a public profile that extended beyond beauty pageants.

In 2012, she became the first former Miss Ghana titleholder to enter Parliament after winning the Ledzokuku seat on the NDC ticket.

She defeated several party stalwarts during the parliamentary primary before going on to win the general election.

Her parliamentary career, however, was not permanent. She lost the Ledzokuku seat in the 2016 election.

Years later, she returned to public service, with an appointment as Coordinator of the Free Senior High School Secretariat.

7. Ebi Bright

Actress Ebi Bright also transitioned from the entertainment industry into active politics.

Before politics, she appeared in over 20 films, including The Unknown, Single Six, Somewhere in Africa, Reason to Kill, The Game, and TV series like Hotel Babylon and Deadline.

She became the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for the Tema Central constituency and contested the seat against the NPP’s Kofi Brako.

Although she did not win the parliamentary seat, her political career continued.

In May 2025, Bright made history when she was sworn in as the first female Metropolitan Chief Executive of Tema.

For her, the path from acting did not lead directly to Parliament but eventually opened the door to local government leadership.

8. Ras Mubarak

Ras Mubarak also brought a media and entertainment background into national politics.

Before entering Parliament, he worked as a reggae presenter at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, gaining experience in both radio and television.

His first attempt at parliamentary politics came when he contested the NDC parliamentary slot for Ablekuma North in 2011.

He won the party’s primary but lost the 2012 general election.

Undeterred, he later contested the NDC parliamentary primary in Kumbungu and won the seat in the 2016 general election.

9. Baba Sadiq

Music entrepreneur Baba Sadiq Abdulai Abu is another prominent example of a creative industry personality entering electoral politics.

As the former CEO of the 3Music Awards, Baba Sadiq had established himself within Ghana’s music and entertainment industry before seeking elected office.

He contested the Okaikwei Central parliamentary seat on the NDC ticket in the 2024 general election.

The contest became one of the most closely watched parliamentary races following an initial declaration in his favour.

However, a subsequent court-ordered recollation of votes confirmed Patrick Yaw Boamah of the NPP as the winner.

Despite the electoral setback, Baba Sadiq’s political journey has continued. President John Dramani Mahama has since nominated him as Ghana’s High Commissioner-designate to Nigeria, subject to the required processes.

10. Kwame Dzokoto

Actor and broadcaster Seth Kwame Dzokoto also moved from entertainment into partisan politics.

Dzokoto became widely known as the host of TV3’s Edziban, a programme that explored Ghanaian food, restaurants and cuisine. He also featured in the very popular Efiewura series

His popularity on television eventually opened the door to political involvement.

In 2014, he was elected Deputy Propaganda Secretary of the NDC in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Constituency.

Two years later, he contested the parliamentary seat as the NDC candidate.

Although he failed to win the election, Dzokoto remained politically active and continued to demonstrate his commitment to the party.

11. Diamond Appiah

Singer and actress Diamond Appiah also ventured into parliamentary politics.

She appeared in movies like Amsterdam Diary (2005) and Babynayoka (2006).

She entered the music scene with her debut album Kase Kyere Wo Kunu, a hiplife classic and is also known for the single “Taste My Apple,” featuring Stay Jay.

Appiah contested the Trobu parliamentary seat on the ticket of the United Progressive Party in 2016.

She was unsuccessful in her attempt to enter Parliament.

Her political involvement, however, reflected a broader trend in which entertainers use their public visibility to pursue political ambitions.

Breaking the stereotype

For some, the motivation is a desire to influence policies affecting their communities and the creative industry. For others, years of public visibility offer a ready-made platform to launch political campaigns.

Actors, musicians and television personalities often already have what many politicians spend years building: a recognisable name and a direct connection with large audiences.

Their growing presence in Ghanaian politics challenges the assumption that leadership belongs only to those who have spent their careers inside political parties.

But the transition comes with scrutiny. Celebrity status may open doors, but entertainers are ultimately judged on the same terms as every other politician: leadership, policy, accountability and delivery.

The real test is not whether an actor, musician or media personality can win an election. It is whether they can turn the influence built on stage or screen into effective representation and public service.

For Ghana’s creative personalities, the journey from stage and screen to the political arena is no longer unusual. The road to Parliament, it turns out, can begin in a film studio, behind a microphone, on a television set, or even on a beauty pageant runway.

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The two leaders joined the Chiefs and people of the Tema Traditional Area as part of activities marking the annual celebration, presenting the items as a gesture of support for the traditional authorities and the wider community.

The donation was received by the Mankralo and Acting President of the Tema Traditional Council, Nii Adjetey Agbo, on behalf of the Chiefs and people.

Nii Adjetey Agbo expressed appreciation for the gesture, which comes as the traditional area prepares for the various activities associated with the Homowo season.

Homowo remains an important occasion for the Ga people, bringing families and communities together to celebrate their heritage, observe traditional rites and strengthen communal bonds.

For Tema, the celebration also provides an opportunity to preserve its cultural identity while bringing traditional leadership, residents and public officials together.

The Mayor and the Tema East MP extended their best wishes to the traditional authorities and residents for a peaceful and successful Homowo celebration.

The comedian and actress entered the plea by video on Tuesday, Aug. 11, according to the Associated Press. As part of the sentence, Haddish was placed on 12 months of probation and ordered to avoid drugs and alcohol and complete a substance abuse evaluation, the outlet reported.

Haddish was also credited for the brief period she spent in jail following her arrest, while the other charges were dropped, according to the AP.

Haddish was arrested by Peachtree City police in January 2022 after officers received a 911 call about a driver who had reportedly fallen asleep behind the wheel at a traffic light, authorities previously told PEOPLE.

Police said officers responding to the call found a vehicle matching the description on Highway 74 and conducted a traffic stop.

“Subsequent investigation led to Ms. Tiffany Haddish being arrested for Driving Under the Influence,” police told PEOPLE at the time. “She was transported to the Fayette County Jail without incident.”

Haddish posted bond and was released from jail hours after her arrest, TMZ previously reported.

In November 2023, Haddish was arrested in Beverly Hills, Calif., on suspicion of driving under the influence. She reached a plea deal with prosecutors in February 2024 and pleaded no contest to a vehicle code violation. Two misdemeanor DUI charges were dropped as part of the deal.

The comedian rose to widespread recognition following her breakout role in the 2017 comedy Girls Trip, and that same year became the first Black female stand-up comedian to host Saturday Night Live.

Haddish won an Emmy Award in 2018 for outstanding guest actress in a comedy series. She later won her first Grammy for her stand-up special Black Mitzvah, becoming the second Black woman to win the award for best comedy album, after Whoopi Goldberg.

The singer, songwriter and performer from Adwumakase-Kese in the Ashanti Region comes from a strong musical background. He is the grandson of legendary highlife musician Alex Konadu, popularly known as “One Man Thousand.”

Inspired by his grandfather’s legacy, Takyi Kay developed an interest in music at an early age and has since sought to preserve the authentic highlife sound while introducing contemporary elements that resonate with younger audiences.

He attended Aduman Senior High School, where he further nurtured his passion for music before combining his artistic pursuits with public service.

Over the years, Takyi Kay has gained valuable experience performing and working with some of Ghana’s established musicians. He has served as both a backing and lead vocalist for highlife icons including Nana Acheampong, the late Yaw Sarpong, the late Nana Tuffour and the late Daddy Lumba.

He credits these experiences with helping him sharpen his vocal abilities, stagecraft and understanding of the music business.

One of the notable moments in his career came during the KABFAM Legends Night 2023, where he performed alongside Nana Acheampong and the late Daddy Lumba.

The event later became particularly significant in Ghanaian music history as the final public performance featuring Nana Acheampong and Daddy Lumba together, giving Takyi Kay a place in a memorable chapter of the country’s highlife tradition.

His profile has also grown through collaborations with established artistes. He featured on Nana Acheampong’s song, “Basaa,” showcasing his vocal versatility and ability to work across different musical styles.

While remaining rooted in highlife, Takyi Kay has increasingly explored contemporary sounds in a bid to reach a broader audience.

He released the street-oriented anthem “Kenken Kwa” before following it with the inspirational single “Free Your Mind,” featuring award-winning musician King Paluta.

The collaboration highlighted his ability to combine elements of traditional highlife with contemporary Ghanaian music.

Takyi Kay is set to release another collaboration with King Paluta, titled “Fa Ma Me,” on August 14, 2026.

The Afrobeat-inspired song is expected to promote themes of love, unity and togetherness while reflecting his continued effort to explore modern sounds without losing connection to his Ghanaian roots.

Takyi Kay says his music is inspired by everyday experiences, love, resilience, hope and Ghana’s cultural values.

His musical approach seeks to appeal to audiences across generations by connecting lovers of traditional highlife with younger listeners seeking fresh and authentic Ghanaian sounds.

With humility, consistency, originality and a commitment to excellence, Takyi Kay continues to build on the musical legacy of his grandfather while establishing an identity of his own.

Through his growing catalogue and collaborations with respected figures in the music industry, he is positioning himself among the emerging artistes working to connect Ghana’s rich highlife tradition with the wider appeal of Afrobeat and contemporary African music.

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The singer recalled travelling to Accra as a young aspiring musician in search of producers who could help turn his songs into a professional career, only to repeatedly hear that his music lacked commercial potential.

Speaking in an interview with Kafui Dey, Ofori Amponsah said his pursuit of music began while he was still in secondary school.

He started looking for opportunities around Form Four and became even more determined the following year. After school, he would carry his cassette recordings from one producer to another, hoping someone would take a chance on his talent.

According to him, the response was largely discouraging because the producers did not believe his songs could conquer the industry.

Rather than abandon his ambition, Ofori Amponsah continued knocking on doors despite the repeated rejection.

His persistence eventually paid off when Odo Mmra Fie became an instant banger in 1999 leading to a successful career in highlife and establishing him as one of the notable voices of his generation.

Looking back, the musician’s experience offers a glimpse into the uncertainty many young artistes face when they are trying to break into Ghana’s music industry, particularly when they have talent but lack the backing, connections or resources needed to get their work heard.

But behind that life, Perez Musik says he was already receiving what he believed were spiritual warnings to turn away from secular music and focus on God.

Speaking on The Career Trail on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, he recalled how those warnings became impossible to ignore after a fire destroyed his recording studio.

“I had been getting prophecies that you need to start doing the work of God and I’ve been stubborn. Because I was enjoying the secular, recording the boys in the area. Article Wan and all. They used to come to my studio to record,” he shared.

As if turning a deaf ear to the warnings was not enough, he decided to expand his recording studio after earning a substantial amount from a project he had worked on.

“I remember I did some work for Anita Erskine, Fashion 101. I was the sound person for that project. Anita paid me. She paid me quite well. So I took the money and I said I was going to buy new equipment for my studio,” he recounted.

“Just when I stepped into the shop, I heard a voice. ‘So this equipment that you’re going to buy, if it catches fire and everything gets burned, what will you do?’ But I still went ahead and bought the equipment,” he added.

Then came December 24, a day he would probably not forget.

“I woke up in the morning; everything was fine. I was just going to pick something. I came back, the studio was on fire,” he revealed.

For Perez Musik, although he was devastated, the loss became a turning point.

“It was painful. But then I sat back, and I was like, ‘OK, God, OK, I hear. You’ve listened to God. I hear. I mean, if you can take this, then you have something better for me,’” he explained.

“It realigned my thinking. It changed my perspective on life. That, you know, material things are not things that you can hold on to. There’s something higher. There’s something greater. There’s something more, which is Christ,” he continued.

From that point, Perez Musik said he became more intentional about his faith, spending more time in church, prayer, and Bible study, with the guidance and support of people who helped him grow spiritually.

“I started going to church. Initially, I would go to church on the 31st or maybe once in a while. Somebody would invite me to some fellowship. But regularly on Sunday, serving in church, no, I wasn’t. My mom was a very prayerful woman, a woman of God. She would give me pressure and everything.

“They used to hold church service in my house. But I had this notion that, ‘Oh, if my mother is praying for me, I mean, I’m fine.’ But you see, the Bible says you should work out your own salvation. So I decided to take God seriously. I quit drinking and smoking,” he expanded.

“There’s one particular woman, Mama Winifred. She calls me her son. And she’s a very strong woman of God. She used to say, ‘Don’t do this; do that. Take your time. Everything will be okay. The Lord will lift you.’ I learned a lot,” he mentioned.

Perez Musik revealed that he had long recognised his prophetic gift, even while living a secular lifestyle. But just like Jonah, he said he was running from the responsibility that came with the calling.

“The funny thing is, I was very prophetic then too. Amongst my friends, we could be sitting down drinking, smoking, and doing all the things. I’ll give them a prophecy. I’ll tell you something, and it came to pass.

“I knew the gift was there. It’s just that I was shying away from the responsibility and the requirement that comes with the gift. Because one of the requirements is that you live a certain way. You subject yourself to the Word of God. I was just not ready for that,” he highlighted.

The spiritual transformation eventually led him into urban gospel music.

“Then I started doing the urban gospel. My first album, Tenacity, was an urban gospel. So that was when everything started. From there it’s been one song after the other,” he stated.

His journey also brought a new identity. After years of being known as “Tinny”, he adopted the name Perez, drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Tamar and Judah in Genesis.

“I was reading the book of Genesis, and you know, Tamar had kids. She was pregnant with twins after Judah had impregnated her. It’s a whole story behind that. And so there were twins in her stomach. One was Perez and one was Zerah. And Zerah was supposed to be the oldest, but Perez eventually came out ahead.

“So Perez is associated with breakthrough. I was in the world, but I have come out of it. So when you mention Perez, you are actually praying for my breakthrough,” he noted.

For Perez Musik, the journey from secular music to urban gospel was therefore more than a change in musical direction. It became what he describes as a personal encounter that redirected his life and his purpose

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Speaking on The Career Trail on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, Perez Musik recalled that after leaving his office job at GHOne TV to pursue music, he struggled to find his footing.

“I resigned to focus on music. But when I came back home, I hustled, still nothing was working,” he recalled.

His next opportunity came when he got a call from Farmhouse Productions to work as an editor.

“Then I got a call that Farmhouse needed an editor for some job. So I said, ‘OK,’ and I took the job,” he revealed.

However, just as he had experienced at GHOne TV, Perez Musik soon realised that a conventional nine-to-five arrangement was not what he wanted and resigned again.

“They put me on probation after three months. I’m like, ‘You know what? 9-5 is not my day. I cannot be waking up every day, coming to sit here.’ So I resigned,” he shared.

He was later retained on a contract basis, which led to opportunities to work with Ivan Quashigah.

“I want to say a very big thank you to Ivan Quashigah. He also gave me opportunities. He gave me the opportunity to edit very, very high-profile work,” he explained.

“He taught me a lot of things. Like, I got perspective from him, creative perspective. I learned that a lot from him and his work ethic,” he added.

While describing Quashigah as someone who could be demanding, Perez Musik said the experience taught him to appreciate the standards required in the creative industry.

“You know, he can be very hard. But yet, you know, that is for the work. And I owe him that. I’ll forever be grateful,” he appreciated.

Perez Musik revealed that the various contracts he received from Quashigah also provided him with income that helped him establish a barbershop.

“So then he was giving me, once in a while, contracts. I’ll go and work some more. I even set up a barbershop from that income,” he noted.

For Perez Musik, the experience was more than just a source of income. It gave him the confidence, exposure and creative perspective to continue building his own path within Ghana’s creative industry.

Award-winning gospel musician, Perez Musik, has opened up about the challenges he faced when he began exploring sounds beyond urban gospel, saying audiences often struggle to accept artistes outside the genres they are known for.

Speaking on The Career Trail on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, Perez Musik said urban gospel itself faced resistance because it was not widely accepted within Ghana’s Christian community.

“One of the challenges was that it’s not really an accepted genre in the country. The Christian fraternity hasn’t come to terms with that aspect of the song ministry. So it was quite difficult,” he said.

He explained that the genre seeks to create a platform for young Christians who want to express their faith through music that connects with their generation.

“It is a wonderful family of young people who are enthusiastic about God. Rather than doing music to please the world, they want to serve a particular generation. I think it was beautiful,” he stated.

However, moving beyond urban gospel to contemporary music also came with its own challenges, as some within the contemporary music scene questioned where he belonged.

“One of the challenges I faced when I say, in quotes, ‘transition’, was that the people in the contemporary side were like, ‘Ah, who’s this? Is he part of us? Is he one of us? Where’s he coming from?’” he shared.

“It wasn’t intentional. It was just me expressing myself, like testing my limits. I still do urban gospel. My latest song has more of an urban Afro vibe. But I felt like I had to push myself, push my limits. So I didn’t see anything wrong with it,” he highlighted.

Perez Musik stressed that he identifies with both genres and believes artistes should be free to explore different sounds as long as their message remains clear.

“I love to explore different sounds and I don’t see anything wrong with that. I have a problem with it when people categorise and segment. I think it’s just music. And you’re an artist. Once you feel like expressing yourself on a ballad, you should be able to. You feel like expressing yourself on an R&B soul kind of vibe, you should. If you feel like doing alternative sound, you should,” he submitted.

“Just that the message should be clear, like Christ. The message is Christ. It’s clearly Christ. I think you should be able to express yourself. So for me, I was just expressing myself,” he emphasised.

According to Perez Musik, the experience showed how quickly artistes can become boxed into a particular identity.

“Ghanaians have a way of boxing you. That’s why we call every toothpaste, we call every bath soap Key Soap. Because when they know you for something, for them to shift their mind from that side, it’s very, very difficult. And a lot of people in the contemporary, even up to now, they don’t really see me as a contemporary artist. They see me like the yo-yo,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Perez Musik remains grateful for how far his journey has taken him.

“But I think it’s just the grace of God that has brought me this far. It’s just the grace and the mercy of God. And I don’t take that for granted at all.”

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Speaking on The Career Trail on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, Perez Musik disclosed that after completing his studies at NAFTI, he had the opportunity to do his national service at GHOne TV, which was owned by Chatterhouse at the time.

After his national service, he was employed at the station, where he gained experience in production, editing and directing.

“I had put the music somewhere for a while. I was doing more of recording voiceovers and radio adverts, you know. I was also producing, directing, and editing my own programme. It was called Shades.

“It was a Christian programme where I bring in gospel musicians. It was a very beautiful programme. I’m thinking of actually recreating that programme again. It was very nice,” he recounted.

But after about two years, he reached a point where he felt he could no longer ignore his music.

“Then, Charlie, one day, the thing just tore from my eye top. I was like, ‘I’m not going to do it again. I want to go and sit at home fully and focus on my music.’ So impromptu, I just resigned,” he shared.

He said the move was also triggered by a realisation that he was neglecting his own gift while helping build someone else’s business.

“I was just walking to the office. And then the voice was like, ‘You are leaving your talent and your gift. You’re going to serve in another man’s business to aid his business growth. It’s not a bad thing. But for how long can you continue doing that?’”

The choice came with uncertainty, but Perez Musik said he had already been inspired by a book that encouraged people to “burn bridges” when pursuing their goals.

“That time, I had read a book. And it spoke about burning bridges, you know. If you really want to achieve something, burn all bridges, put pressure on yourself. It was difficult. It was a difficult decision. But I took it,” he noted.

Today, that bold move stands as a defining moment in Perez Musik’s journey. What began as a difficult leap from the security of an office job has grown into a career that has allowed him to find his place, make his mark and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s music and creative space.

“I have no regrets about leaving my office job. But I am so grateful to Chatterhouse because they gave me a lot of opportunities that helped me along my music journey,” he concluded.

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Lil Win had earlier expressed frustration in a video, accusing Van Vicker of disappointing him after allegedly declining a role shortly before filming was scheduled to begin. He subsequently said he would no longer feature Van Vicker in his productions or work on projects that cast them together.

Van Vicker, however, has offered a different version of events, insisting that he never confirmed his participation in the movie in the first place.

According to a report by GhanaWeb, Van Vicker explained in a statement that a director initially approached him on Lil Win’s behalf about appearing in two films to be shot in Kumasi.

According to the actor, the original shooting dates conflicted with his schedule, prompting the production team to propose alternative dates. He said he agreed to check his availability and requested the scripts before making a final commitment.

Van Vicker said that after reviewing his existing engagements, he informed the director several days before the proposed shoot that he would not be available.

He explained that the producers subsequently tried to accommodate his schedule by reducing his expected shooting period from about three or four days to two, but he still could not commit because of prior engagements.

He therefore rejected the suggestion that he had cancelled a confirmed appearance at the eleventh hour, maintaining that no final agreement had been reached for him to join the production.

Van Vicker also took issue with the way the matter had been presented publicly, suggesting that he would not allow himself to be drawn into what he described as a misleading narrative or promotional stunt.

Speaking on The Career Trail on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, Perez Musik acknowledged the excitement surrounding the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), but questioned the extent to which the country celebrates science and mathematics at the expense of other areas of education.

“The NSMQ is amazing. The whole euphoria around it is fine, but for me, I don’t really see the big deal about it,” he said.

According to him, education is much broader than science and mathematics, with various disciplines contributing to the development of a nation.

“I believe that the education system is broad, and it’s just broader beyond science and maths alone. The arts are there, the visual arts are there, and building a nation demands a combination of all these things,” he explained.

 “So if we are just going to focus on boarding schools just for science and maths, what about the people in the fashion industry? What about the people in the visual arts and everything? What are we doing for them?” he asked.

He stressed the need for greater encouragement for young people who have an interest in creative and vocational fields, arguing that these areas can also provide viable career and business opportunities.

“Home economics, especially the cooking, I mean, right now it’s a big deal. People are running restaurants and things, making big money,” he highlighted.

“There’s events going on every weekend across the country. If you go to school and you learn some of these things, event organisation, publicity, I mean, I feel it’s broader,” he added.

Perez Musik, therefore, called for a broader approach to education that recognises the value of different disciplines and career paths.

“I think we should look at the broader picture,” he concluded.

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Speaking on The Career Trail on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, Perez Musik took viewers back to his school days, revealing a lesser-known chapter of his journey in the secular music space.

But the story of “Tinny” did not begin at Mfantsipim. His love for music had already taken shape years earlier, and by the time he entered secondary school, he was carrying that passion with him.

“I’ve always wanted to do something around music and entertainment,” he said.

“I once watched By the Fireside, and they were doing the ghost effect. Kwaku Ananse, or somebody like this, he disappeared. I was intrigued. I was like, ‘How did they do that effect? The funny thing is, nobody taught me how to achieve that effect.

“I sat down and thought, ‘If I put the camera down static and record an empty frame, then make the person come in or go out of the frame, when I cut it, I’ll get that effect.’ I didn’t even know there was anything called editing. The idea just popped to me that, ‘I can actually do this,’” he further explained.

His curiosity about editing even grew stronger when a production crew came to shoot a music video at his uncle’s house. He was fascinated by how artistes could appear in different locations while the song continued without interruption.

“I see music videos on TV. And I’m like, ‘Ah, the person is standing at different locations. But the song is seamless. So having watched the crew record and edit at my uncle’s place gave me a better understanding of what happened behind the scenes.

“So you’ll be playing the music, and you record. When you finish, and you edit, and then you put the music under it, I’m like, ‘Oh, okay,’” he recalled.

That early curiosity eventually developed into a strong interest in music and entertainment, which he carried with him into secondary school.

Before leaving for Mfantsipim, he had already recorded a demo album, which he took with him to school.

“I recorded an album, like a demo album. It was brought to me later in school. My first day, I had a CD,” he recalled.

The CD soon caught the attention of one of the senior students, who took him to Angel, Sarkodie’s manager and his senior at Mfantsipim.

“One of the seniors was going through my things and they were like, ‘What is the CD? What are you doing?’ And I said, ‘Oh, it’s my songs.’ They listened to it and then they took me to Angel, Sarkodie’s manager. Angel was my senior. He listened to it and he was impressed,” he narrated.

“So that weekend, the first entertainment in school, the very first one, I was made to perform. I performed my song. So I became very popular in school from the first week,” he continued.

His Ga rap style soon earned him the nickname ‘Tinny’ that defined his school days.

“I used to rap in Ga. At that time, Tinny was the big deal. So they used to call me Tinny,” he revealed.

Interestingly, Perez revealed that although he wanted to pursue music in SHS, the education system did not offer a clear path for what he wanted to do.

“The things I loved doing, there was no proper option there,” he explained.

He said he considered General Arts because it offered music, but eventually left the class after becoming frustrated with the way the subject was taught.

“The music teacher was so boring. Like, he made the music very difficult. Like, it was so boring. So I left,” he recalled.

He eventually moved into the technical programme, studying mathematics, physics, building construction, and building drawing.

Although he enjoyed building construction and was not bad at it, music and entertainment remained his passion.

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