CypressGH.COM: August 2016

Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Photos : Stay Jay Wins Two Awards In Holland

Award award-winning Ghanaian rapper and the CEO of ASB Music label, Stay Jay, has received two new accolades in Holland.

He was honoured with two awards for his prodigious contribution to Ghana music industry on the global market at a ceremony held at Gaasperplas Park, Amsterdam.

Stay Jay received the “Tema Citizens Of Holland Award” which was announced by Mr Alfred Kyei Mensah, the Vice Chairman of RECOGIN and Chairman of Tema Citizens Club Holland, and presented by the father of former Ghana Blackstars winger Quincy Owusu Abeyie, Mr Collins Jamie. Patrons of Tema Citizens Club Holland and other officials were part of the presentation.

He also received the “Akwaaba Holland Award” from Akwaaba Holland Ster Entertainment. The award was presented to him by Mr Han Blouw and other officials.

Delivering his acceptance speech, the “Sue” hitmaker said “I say a very big thank you to all the organisers, fans and my music lovers for the great honour. God bless you all much love and respect #ASBMusic #JAYNATION.”

An idea that was conceived finally came into light a year ago when Ghana’s Number One Campus Entertainment TV Show Campusbasetv came up with an initiative to rediscover Ghana in the area of tourism.

That conception sought to create awareness and to promote domestic tourism amongst the youth hence gave birth to the name “Corners of GH”.

The First edition saw the students tourists who toured the central region of Ghana and the places of visit were the kakum national Park, the cape coast castle and the Elmina castle respectively. One of the remarkable moments of the said trip was that of the presence of the regional Minister Hon. Acquinas who applauded and commended the idea of growing back the interest of tourism again in the country.

The second edition of the much anticipated trip also came off a fort night ago with a trip this time round to the Volta region of Ghana and the places of visit were the tafi Monkey sanctuary and Biakpa Mountain paradise.

In an effort to show commitment to its communities, Vodafone Ghana Foundation has paid the medical bills of 300 patients in various hospitals across the country.

The move is part of an annual initiative, “Homecoming”, that shows care and affection to needy patients in different medical centres in Ghana.

Last year, the company paid a sum of GHS30,000 to the 37 Military Hospital to be used to discharge patients who were due but could not afford.

This year, the gesture, which was close to GHS300,000, saw a section of Vodafone Senior staff assisting a number of hospitals, including Korle Bu and 37, to bring smiles on the faces of these insolvent patients.

Commenting, Ebenezer Amankwah, Corporate Communications Manager at Vodafone Ghana said:

“The very essence of what the Foundation stands for, is to be a caring brand by enabling access to resources that promote social change. Homecoming brings us closer to the community; it gives us reason to see our interventions making a direct impact in society. These things truly excite us.”

Award winning media personality and Forbes Africa correspondent Peace Hyde added another accolade to her profile by receiving the excellence in Journalism award in Los Angeles at the African Boku talent.

Honourees for the international Style Africa 2016 Awards are selected individuals from the creative industry who have excelled in their chosen fields.

Peace Hyde awarded for her remarkable achievements in journalism and her social impact with her multiple award winning Not For Profit, Aim Higher Africa talks to BlackPumps TV "On the Red Carpet" in Los Angeles about receiving this prestigious recognition.

She shares secrets to her incredible journey in this inspirational interview where she credits God for all her success.

Fast rising hot actress Gift Asante has released new hot promo photos. The photoshoot was shot by popular Photographer @focusnblur.

The actress is popular for her roles in the award winning movie, “Devil in a dress” , As well as the comedy filled “kalybos in China”, Queen Latifah and last but not least, “onifranii asem” a kumawood production.

The gorgeous actress also played a lead role in short “taekwando” movie which is going for Los Angelos short movie awards. She was also a key character in “keko” a short Ghana-Nigeria collaboration movie which won number of awards.

She’s currently playing a lead role in abu idi’s “questions ” which is a first African vampire series.

Checkout Her Dazzling Photos After The Cut....

Neo Beats Collaborates With Reason In New Smash Single Eleven Over Ten

Multi-talented producer, singer and award winning rapper, Neo Beats, is climbing the entertainment ladder by storm, after releasing highly anticipated single titled Eleven Over Ten (#11Over10) featuring hip-hop sensation Reason.

Neo Beats’ effortless lyrical flow and catchy chorus and Reason’s undoubtable lyrical prowess will get South Africa singing along to #11Over10. No stranger to the hip hop scene, Neo Beats says this track takes the famous genre to different heights.

“The single infuses old school elements with the current sound scape in music now, both lyrically and from a production stance. It also has a catchy yet meaningful hook that works as a bridge for any environment. The idea for this single came during a beat selection with Reason and myself to be "Overboard, Xtra and Beyond than the average Joe" expresses Neo Beats.

Neo Beats has worked with various established music heads including the likes of Morale, Bricks and Tuks. His fan base has increased substantially over the past two years having performed at various events and festivals throughout the country including the Soweto Festival, Back To The City and at the Grahamstown National Arts Festival.

If the new single is anything to go by, Neo Beats definitely has a lot to offer the hip-hop scene and is one of the rappers to lookout for in the last quarter of the year.

Culled from Vodafone’s position in a debate organised by the Corporate Initiative Ghana (CIG) for Telcos and Banks.

Much has been said about the role of mobile money in an economy such as Ghana's.

Since its advent onto the scene some seven years ago, the overriding debate has been whether it poses an existential threat or is rather a symbiotic platform for the banking industry.

Some prominent figures in the banking industry have expressed several views on the debate. Amongst the points, previously espoused, include the following;

    Telcos are trying to operate as pseudo-banks without the regulatory rights and privileges.

    Telcos are attempting to receive interest from mobile money transactions; which directly distorts the status quo currently.

    Telcos in mobile money operations are targeting and shrinking banks’ customers.

While these premises seem to have been hammered on for a long time, the truth is that they are unfounded.

How do Banks mobilise their funds?

The ethos of any financial institution, or banks for that matter, gives them the license to receive deposits, issue loans and conduct other financial services such as Wealth Management and Investment Banking. For mobile money to be considered competitive, it has to possess the capacity to significantly disrupt the bank’s ability to perform these primary functions.

There are several ways banks mobilise funds in their day-to-day operations. However, the two major sources are:

    Corporates & businesses and;

    High/Middle income earners

Banks access these customer deposits through the placement of branches in selected areas where their targeted customers are located. It is therefore no surprise that there are now less than 2,000 bank branches since the advent of banking in Ghana in 1896. In fact, some Banks are even reducing their branch networks, further restricting their reach to only big businesses and the “elite” in the society.

September promises to be an exciting month as dance takes centre stage with over 14 dance events designed to mark the celebration of the 2nd annual Ghana Dance Festival.

Unlike last year where fewer events and activities happened over a period of three months, this year’s edition of the Ghana Dance Festival has more events, but condensed into one month of celebration. Beginning with a Grand Launch on Thursday, September 1, Ghana will be dancing to different dance forms, catering to different targets throughout the month before it is brought to an end on Sunday, October 1 with a Grand Finale.

According to Robert Klah, CEO of CAiM, organisers of the Ghana Dance Festival, “this year’s celebration is themed Dance for Peace. And prior to the event launch, dancers are being sensitized on making a peace statement with their dance.” With regards to the number of events, he said “dance is too big to be celebrated with one event. That is why we call it a festival, a series of dance events. Dance means different things to different people, and so it is only fair that for an annual program of this nature, events are organised to cater to our differences.”

Multiple award-winning South African singer, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, will headline the 2016 Vodafone African Legends Night.

Named by Forbes Magazine as one of the top 40 most powerful African celebrities, Yvonne becomes the first female singer to headline the show since it started last six years.

The Princess of Africa, who has performed for the Queen of England Queen Elizabeth, former US President Bill Clinton, Ex-South African President Thabo Mbeki, and many other world leaders will perform alongside other Ghanaian music stars to some of her popular songs such as “I am in love with the DJ”, “I am Burning Up”, “Thank You Mr. DJ”, Umqombothi (featured in the Hotel Rwanda movie) among others.

Yvonne has been in the music industry for more than 25 years. She has shared the stage with megastars such as Bono, Angelique Kidjo, Annie Lennox, Youssou N’Dour, Johnny Clegg, Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela.

The African Legends Night honours musicians who have put Africa’s rich culture and heritage on the global stage and has attracted over 1,000 audience to the nation’s Banquet Hall, State House with soothing, exciting and danceable African tunes.

Johnnie Beresford Hughes is usually a casual and unassuming man. My few encounters with the broadcaster, have been humbling experiences, as his humility and will to teach is overwhelming.

Many readers will remember Johnnie Hughes as one of the leading faces, first on Viasat 1 TV as Host of The Goodlife Game Show and then on TV Africa as Host of the Rundown Show, until he left at the end of 2015 to join MG group's 3FM.

His move to 3FM was considered as a new chapter and step in his career and since December 2015, Johnnie Hughes has written this chapter with stories of Excellence. Johnnie Hughes' stay at 3FM began as he sat in for ace broadcaster, Paul Adom- Otchere on the station's news and current affairs drive show. This task was performed with enough dexterity to gain him a permanent slot when Paul Adom Otchere exited.

After proving himself on that slot, Johnnie Hughes proceeded to begin a community rights advocacy show, "Community Connect" on the station. The success of the show ran on defending the rights of ordinary Ghanaians being oppressed in the community; revealing the evils perpetrated by big corporations at the expense of well meaning citizens, while praising the good deeds of the same. Community Connect received a lot of accolades as many ills were corrected due to the show.

The inaugural Miss Ghana South Africa pageant in association with the Ghana High Commission took place this past Saturday, 27 August 2016, at a glitzy black tie gala dinner at the Bryanston Country Club in Johannesburg, South Africa, which saw 21 year old final year University of Witwatersrand Industrial Psychology student, Michelle Danso, take the crown.

The sold out event was hosted by prominent radio Programs Manager, Tony Soglo, and Communication Specialist, Nonye Omotola. The event was attended by dignitaries such as His Excellency, Kwesi Ahwoi, and members of his esteemed Ghana High Commission team.

Former SABC Chairperson, Ellen Tshabalala and reigning Miss South Africa 2015 1st Princess, Refilwe Mthimunye, formed part of the judging panel alongside businessmen Anthony Afordofe of Akweni Construction and Project Management, Mckevin Ayaba Founding Partner of Africa Business Radio and accomplished registered pharmacist, Dr Ralph Tetty-Amlalo.

Reigning Mrs Tshwane 2015 and Mrs Africa International 2016, Refilwe Fosu-Amoah, played a key role alongside the organisers as Pageant Coordinator, taking the finalists under her wing and managing their activities.

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the successful launch of the inaugural Miss Ghana South Africa pageant. It’s been a concept 6 years in the making and we believe we have laid a strong foundation for the longevity of this pageant in South Africa and we look forward to journeying with Michelle Danso over the next year. Congratulations to all the finalists.

MTN Hitmaker’s Emma Out With Debut Single “Adonai”

Emma, who voluntarily exited the MTN Hitmaker competition had to fly back to the UK to seek medical attention due to ill health. She was the crowd’s favorite, winning Golden moments in the competition twice with her smooth soothing voice and was heavily tipped to win the competition by patrons.

According to Emma, her God-father Dr Abbeam Ampomah Danso who co-writes and produces most of her songs introduced her to the Mtn hits maker competition.

Emma said she saw it as a chance to learn more about the cultural values of Ghana, since she had been away from home for quite some time now.” According to her, the experience gained from the competition is one, which will help her immensely,

“I love Ghana and Ghanaian music. I love every genre, from hiplife to hi life, but my preferred choice would fit right into the gospel family and with the support I have enjoyed over the last few weeks, I would say is overwhelming.

Ghanaian rap artiste and owner of Asuma 10 Records, Asumadu has announced a new Afrobeats single featuring Ahkan of Hiplife/Afrobeats group, Ruff N Smooth.

The song titled “She's Feeling Me” and produced by Apya is scheduled for release on Asumadu’s birthday, September 13.

According to Adumadu, “’She’s Feeling Me’ is about a lady who has an interest in a guy but can't make a step ahead to make her intentions clear due to fear.”

Explaining why he featured Ahkan instead of other artistes, he said “Ruff N Smooth is a group that I have been following for about six years now, especially Ahkan. To the best of my knowledge, they made Afro-pop music known in Africa before Nigerians began to record the genre. She's Feeling Me too is Afro Pop which working with Ahkan will make the song a banger.”

He assured his fans to expect something different from the normal tunes he uses to release.

“My ardent followers should expect me performing on all the biggest stages African and beyond as am building on this single 'She's Feeling Me' to become one of the most sought after musicians in the near future,” he said.

Nana Aba Anamoah and Sandra Ankobiah have built a media training institute that provides hands-on-practical training, geared towards providing the most useful and comprehensive media training program available in Ghana.

The world is changing. Social media has now become the trend, and the overall fabric of society has transformed and evolved with it. Which is why today’s vastly changed media landscape calls for a recasting of the role of the media in promoting pro-social change.

But for those who aspire to be in this media space, the question of which media institute provides the best environment to study and thrive in is a big one. They often wonder which media institute runs diverse and practical courses which is committed to making a difference in their preferred career field.

It is why the introduction of SN Media Learning Tree is seen as a welcome addition.

For Nana Aba Anamoah, co-founder of SN Media Learning Tree, providing expert training is necessary to produce skilled professionals.

Coming on the back of her well-received debut EP Shine Like Gold which was released last year, British Nigerian singer, songwriter and composer, and MOBO Award nominee Olaedo Ibe is proud to announce her brand new single ‘Lead Me’, which is taken from her forthcoming sophomore EP Grow To Glow.

Produced by GKid, whose previous production credtis include working with the likes of Faith Child, Guvna B and Triple O, ‘Lead Me’ is a exciting and passionate Hip Hop/Soul number with spoken word elements, which sees Olaedo Ibe offering up a prayer to God for guidance through this journey of life.

Showing off her vocal abilities, refreshing tone and melodies, and sincere and relatable songwriting dexterity over the GKid-produced musical backdrop, Olaedo Ibe gloriously merges Gospel, Hip Hop, Soul and Spoken Word to excellent effect, and has created a captivating song, with a real and impassioned message.

Speaking about the inspiration behind her new ‘Lead Me’ single, Olaedo says, “the song is actually a prayer that evolved into a song. It inspires and reassures me that even though I may not know everything, God truly does. I hope it inspires my listeners to trust God’s guidance in every area of their lives”.

Friction and his band The Roots Drivers sharing the stage with reggae legends Lee Perry and The Congos.

If you have followed Friction throughout the years, you know that his life is all about music and constantly taking his music career to the next level.

Throughout the years he has proven himself as a stable, professional artist, achieving wonderful things in the international music scene, for example being the founder and former frontman of Ghana’s most popular music group V.I.P. (now VVIP) and being the support act of Morgan Herritage in Holland in 2014. Now he can add another milestone to his cv; the invite to come and perform on UK’s #1 Reggae Festival.

The One Love Festival takes place in London, from Friday the 2nd of September till Sunday the 4th of September, with several stages and areas. Friction will perform on the mainstage, Saturday afternoon, the same stage on which Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Junior Reid, Macka B and Kabaka Pyramid among many others will perform throughout the weekend.

Besides the One Love Festival, Friction & The Roots Drivers will also perform in two music clubs in the UK the surrounding days, making it a small but powerful UK tour.

Ms. Akutu (left), being presented with her trophy and plaque by the Deputy Finance Minister, Mrs. Mona Quartey at the Feminine Ghana Achievement Awards

THE Managing Director of Unilever Ghana, Ms. Maidie Arkutu has been honoured by the Business Excellence Magazine. She was presented with the award for the Most Outstanding Manufacturing Executive - Personal Products at the 2nd Feminine Ghana Achievement Awards 2016.

The Feminine Ghana Achievement Awards, which took place at the Golden Tulip Hotel recently, identifies exemplary conduct, performance and achievement by women in specified sectors of public governance, professional and business activities or in their contributions to the wellbeing of society.

The awards scheme also aims to identity and publicize these role models whose accomplishments encourage and inspire women in general across the country to similar conduct and behavior in exemplary fashion.

Last night, Beyoncé’s groundbreaking visual album “Lemonade” won eight Moonmen trophies, including “Video of the Year” for “Formation” at the 2016 “MTV Video Music Awards”, which took place at New York’s famed Madison Square Garden. The global megastar surprised the audience with a jaw-dropping “Lemonade” medley that recreated the stunning imagery of the visual album.

Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award-winner Rihanna dazzled with a career-spanning four-act performance including an electrifying opening dance medley and a trio of stirring ballads to close before accepting the VMAs’ highest honour with a heartfelt tribute by Drake.

Tune in to the African TV premiere of The MTV Video Music Awards on MTV (DStv channel 130) tonight at 7:00pm. Build up to the big night begins with the official Pre-Show including red carpet action on MTV from 6pm.

Britney Spears made a triumphant return to the VMA stage with a soaring performance of her G-Eazy collaboration “Make Me…” Kanye West made a special appearance to deliver a meditation on fame before introducing the steamy and surreal video for “Fade”, starring actress and GOOD Music recording artist Teyana Taylor and her fiancée, the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Iman Shumpert.

BET Awards Winner- Stonebwoy; king of Highlife-Amakye Dede and the reigning VGMA 2016 Artiste of the year- EL, have been announced to headline the Ghana Music Week, UK (GMW-UK) scheduled for the Indigo at the O2 in London on Friday, October 21, 2016.

This was revealed at the Ghana High Commission in London on Thursday August 25, 2016, at a Media Launch, which was attended by a broad spectrum of media persons and event managers in the UK.

“After four years of organizing GMW in Ghana, the team moved into achieving another of its key goals of using the platform to market Ghanaian music & tourism to the world”, said Leslie Quaynor, CEO of Fantasy Entertainment, the company partnering Showbiz Africa and the Musicians Union of Ghana to run GMW Festival.

According to him, last year, GMW Festival launched its first extension- GMW-U.S, at the Ghana Embassy in Washington DC; and had a very successful concert at the B.B. Kings Hall, New York on October 17, 2015. “As a result of GMW-US”, he explains, “Over 187 guests from the U.S and eight Foreign Missions in Ghana participated in the 2016 GMW in March this year. This big impact within a short period influenced a strong case to push an agenda for an even wider reach, hence the decision for GMW-Uk”, Leslie said.

Photos : Tiwa Savage & Baby Billz Are Already A Tight Team, They Rocked Uganda

Tiwa has proven there is no point in letting your “9 month course” slow you down!

The two hit the stage at the Airtel Inspiring Women Concert on Saturday night in Kampala and gave their fans an energetic performance.

It looks like Baby Billz has already got its path of fame cleared awaiting arrival.

See More Photos After The Cut.....

Taking one step at a time, Nigerian music star Tiwatope Savage-Balogun, better known by her stage name Tiwa Savage has been causing some buzz in the US since signing on to Jay Z’s Roc Nation label.

The song bird recently joined marketing executive at Apple Music, Bozoma Saint John, Hollywood actress Lupita Nyong’o, music star Jidenna and more at the inauguration “Fem The Future” hosted by Janella Monae at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden in New York.

She also shared a pose with DJ Khaled and captioned it ‘RocNation Fam’ on her social media platform. Should we expect some major collaborations for Tiwa soon?

See More Photos After The Cut ......

The Ghana Government has granted South Africa Airways (SAA), the Firth Freedom Traffic Right to operate on the Accra-London route.

This means that SAA after satisfying the criteria of the aeronautical agencies of both countries, can fly direct from Accra to London.

This was disclosed by Transport Minister Fiifi Kwetey at an event to mark the first anniversary of direct flight of SAA to Washington.

According to him, the request which was made by the airline was granted due to the success it has attained with its direct flight to Washington one year on.

"We are confident that just as they have done very well on the current route, once this also goes through we will definitely see quite a lot of exciting opportunities on the Accra-London route as well," Mr Kwetey said.

He added that Ghana has adopted a liberalized aviation policy in the bid to make it an aviation hub in Africa.

AFRIMA Storms London Nottinghill Carnival

As part of its activities of showcasing Africa’s rich cultural heritage to the global community, the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA will be present at Europe’s biggest street carnival, the London Notting Hill Carnival 2016.

The carnival, which is a vivid spectacle representing London's multicultural past and present, kicks off on Saturday, August 27. The AFRIMA in Diaspora Troupe which will be sustaining AFRIMA’s identity at the LNHC Opening Ceremony on August 27 will team up with the Lagos State Government float, which has been tagged the Lagos Corner.

Lagos State, Nigeria’s centre of excellence, was unveiled by the African Union Commission and the International Committee of AFRIMA, as the host city for the AFRIMA 2016 edition which is tagged AFRIMA 3.0.

To lead the AFRIMA officials to showcase and give out some of the awards collaterals which include the 23.9 carat gold-plated trophy, literature, branded T-‐shirts and other memorabilia at the LNHC, is the President/Executive Producer, Mr. Mike Dada.

He came, he saw and he conquered! That is how best one can describe the excellent performance put up by the King of African Dancehall, Shatta Wale, last night at the world famous Indigo 02 for his Shatta Wale Live In London Concert!

Shatta Wale was in control from the moment he got on stage getting the entire house on their feet throughout his one hour performance of all his hit songs on his latest album, ‘After The Storm’ and other recently released singles. His energy was unbelievable with amazing dance steps to compliment.

This was all happening as hundreds of music lovers and fans of the African Dancehall wouldn’t be allowed into the venue as the tickets were sold out!

The show was put together by Ghanaian International event company, Akwaaba UK, a member of The Akwaaba Group (TAG).l event company, Akwaaba UK, a member of The Akwaaba Group (TAG)

See More Photos After The Cut.....

The time has finally come for the premiere of the much anticipated movie Utopia. Every preparation to ensure a smooth program has been effected, it is now your privilege to witness a complete revolution in the Ghanaian film industry.

Utopia film depicts a journey of two young men played by ELIKEM KUMORDZIE and ALPHONSE MENYO who embark on a life's pursuit of survival. Their challenges, and victories are clearly articulated, showing forth the woes of every man.

The film is not void of intrigue, romance and suspense but despite everything it has to offer, it is a must watch movie and patrons who pay GHS 30.00 to watch it will testify that African movies, not just Ghanaian films have undergone serious positive transformation in story, act, cinematographer and cast.

After premier party at Kristal club, Osu by 12 mid night.

Uti Nwachukwu's Childhood Photo Defines His Glittering Career

Nigerian actor and TV show host,Uti Nwachukwu has said his father is responsible for his pose and love of fashion.

The actor/model made this statement when he posted a picture from his childhood on his Instagram page.

“My parents must have been using me to make yanga shaaa, see this bomboy. I blame my father for my pose pose and love of fashion; the swag was always there though,” the 34-year-old wrote.

“Even if them no tell you, you go know say this pikin was destined for television, modelling and fashion things. It was written!

“Pay attention to the signs people. Watch your children so u know where they are meant to be. It’s usually obvious. ”

Lil Win To Premiere 'I Dont Think Far' & 'Choices' Music Video On September 11th

Boss Nation Music is preparing for the official release of comic actor, DJ Lil Win's music video for Choices and I Dont Think Far.

According to management, these videos before its official release will be premiered inside X5 Pub located at Krofrom on September 11 2016.

This is a special Sala gift from Boss Nation Music Crew to fans of the actor. Razak, manager stated..

Artistes billed to perform that day include all Boss Nation Artistes, which include Zack, Sherry Boss, Top Kay, Young Chorus, Ohemaa Dadao, Obibini Takyi Jnr, Sylvia, Eimen, Little Kay, Papa Kumasi, Big Akwess, among others. Also on bill are Guru, Flowking Stone, Medikal, and many more.

There will be red carpet for fans to get the chance to interact and take pictures with their favorite celebrities that day. The show starts at 12 midday till day break.

This event is sponsored by Joy Daddy, Obibini Blackman & Rush Energy Drink.

It is always great to see our rising acts mount big platforms outside our shores.

One of Ghana’s finest rapper, Dem Tinz of ‘Ebi Ur Matter’ fame, will have his first major performance in South Africa at the grand finale of the 2016 Miss Ghana South Africa .

Dem Tinz known in real life as Emmanuel Akesseh will perform alongside some selected music icons like Drum Pipo and Polamo as they take to the stage to show off the fine talents they are made of.

This Year's event is to take place at the Bryanston Country Club in Johannesburg South Africa and thousands of patrons are expected to attend this Event.

Dem Tinz is currently in Johannesburg familiarizing himself with the media and fans ahead of this gig.

According to the organizers 10 girls of Ghanaian heritage residing in South Africa will view for the bragging rights to Miss Ghana South Africa 2016.

The event will be attended by high profile guests such as His Excellency, Ghana High Commissioner, Kwesi Ahwoi, and his team.

Multichoice Ghana operators of DStv and GOtv has awarded some member of staff and its key dealers for their sterling contribution to the growth of the business at the weekend.

In all four members of staff, sixteen Dealers and Two Direct Sales Representative’s (DSR’s) received various prizes including Tricycles, flat screen TV’s, Laptop’s and Shopping Vouchers amongst others at the annual Chairman’s party held in Accra.

The General Manager, Multichoice Ghana, Cecil Sunkwa-Mills in his welcome address stressed the need for a strong distribution network with empowered trade partners as a sine qua non to happier subscribers and business growth. Adding that “it is for these reasons we reward our Dealers, DSR’s and other trade partners.” At Multichoice we have a strong focus on recognition of our People, as they are at the frontline to our customers; thus a properly motivated team will always strive to delight the customer.

Multichoice Ghana continues to entrench its roots in the Ghana with our recent partnerships with a number of Ghanaian TV stations on our GOtv and DStv platforms and “we are committed to share our wealth of knowledge and best practice with all players as we move towards Digital Migration. He announced that subscribers on the Compact Bouquet will continue to enjoy the Premier League and La Liga matches at just Ghs160 a month.

Ghanaian Afro/dancehall artiste, Myron AK is set to release yet another masterpiece in September which will sweep music lovers off their feet.

Produced by Dannybeatz, mixed and mastered by Dannybeatz & Magnom, “Shake It”seeks to appreciate women of all shapes, forms and sizes without any form of discrimination.

“Shake It” is Myron AK’s first official single after 2 years and the first of many collaborations with acts outside Ghana.

The song was written and performed by Myron Otoo, Nkachukwu Kelvin and Dannybeatz.

Known for his creativity and eclectic performance, the artiste in 2014 released “One Night” which won the hearts of many music enthusiasts.

Relebogile Mabotja Appointed As The Youngest SAMRO Board Member Ever

Multi award winning actress and singer, presenter, producer, musical director, composer, publisher and business woman, Relebogile Mabotja, has been appointed as the newest board member to join the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) which makes her the youngest member ever to join the board at only age 30.

Relebogile Mabotja will be formally inducted onto the SAMRO board on Wednesday, 31 August 2016 at their offices in Braamfontein. Relebogile Mabotja’s induction comes during Women’s Month which is highly fitting, as Relebogile Mabotja is also the only female publisher on the board and to be recognised for the strides she is making for other women in the music industry is appropriate to be celebrated during this momentous month as we remember the women of 1956 that paved the way to improve the status of women in South Africa.

“I did not expect the call when it came but I am truly honoured to have even been considered to join the board of an organisation that plays such a pivotal role for music makers and musicians in the country. As a board member of SAMRO, I want to advocate for opportunities for women in the music industry.

I sometimes find myself being the only female in a lot of the work I do and I believe it’s time for more women to rise and not own only their space in the music industry but to bring about positive change and upliftment” expresses Relebogile Mabotja.

Quata Budukusu is in the news again as his song, One Life to Live, is included in the USA Coast 2 Coast mixtape. The #NextUp Mixtape vol. 358 released 24 August 2016 in the USA, had Quata Budukusu's tune on track 8 of 46.

Coast 2 Coast Mixtapes is the most downloaded mixtape series in the world, with over 250 volumes, all officially hosted by major artistes.

Coast 2 Coast mixtapes started in 2006 and had worked with some of the biggest hip-hop and R&B celebrities in the game.

They include: 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, Game, Pharrell, Nas, Lupe Fiasco, Wyclef, French Montana, Wale, Meek Mill, Rick Ross, Chris Brown, LL Cool J, Fabolous, Flo Rida just to mention a few.

Therefore, to have your song included on their mixtape is no mean achievement as stated by Quata Budukusu. Quata concluded by saying he is ready to bring the world to Africa, Ghana to be precise, and not the other way round.

Before leaving for South Africa for his collaboration works with some of the top South African artistes, Quata hinted that he would be working with some top Ghanaian musicians before embarking on his journey in the coming month. He also noted that with his management behind him, all he sees is success.

Quata continued by saying he is in no competition with anyone, and he is taking his time to make his music mature rather than rushing and not making any impact after his comeback. "I am triumphal with the rate at which my team is working.

We are working hard every day, and I know very soon, the story will change. “Success is all I see” Quata maintained.

Ghana’s best female vocalist NanaYaa will on the 31st of August at the Republic Bar inside Osu host a 100% live music experience dubbed: ‘the Silhouette Concert.

The live show will see performances from top artistes like Samini, Trigmatic, Worlasi, Epixode Tijani Pepe and Quarme Zaggy.

Other artistes to support NanaYaa on the big night inside Osu at Republic Bar are Zebern the Poet, Rhymme Sonny, Teshie Boy and Ghana’s King of Stand up of comedy DKB.

According to the songstress, the live show will see her launch her debut EP called: ‘Silhouette’, premiere a new video for the song #Handkerchief featuring Samini and a huge surprise.

NanaYaa who is tagged by many, as one of the best female voices in Africa will treat fans to a 100% live performance with some exclusive covers of songs on her playlist.

She mentioned that the event is called the ‘Silhouette Concert’ because after her first single ‘Ego Be’ which got her nominations at the VGMAs, Handkerchief ft Samini also brought some light but its time for the face to match with the voice hence the Silhouette’s time to shine.

With the aim of promoting the play of more Ghanaian music on our air waves, the CEO of George Britton interactive started “I support 80% GH Music on our airwaves” campaign.

An initiative meant to get the Ghanaian radio stations to play 80% music from Ghanaian musicians.

This initiative has received a lot of support from Ghanaian artistes, producers, promoters and the latest music duo on the scene, SWITZBOIZ who are making waves across the globe have also stated they are in full support of the agenda.

But if the agenda of the campaign is not made very clear for all to understand, music groups with half Ghanaian nationals doing afro pop which is not typically Ghanaian genre but continentally accepted, may suffer if the campaign becomes a reality ..said Toffi the Ghanaian member and Empire Entertainment Productions Head and CEO of Cedis Endorsed ,Daniel Obeng Fianko a.k.a Cedis.

Cedis also added, he is concerned with where a group like switzboiz will fall with one member coming from Ghana and the other one from Nigeria because not all of them are Ghanaians.

So it is very important we define the agenda very carefully and clearly so we don’t sideline Ghanaian individuals who are collaborating with other nationals to produce great music.”

A recent campaign to promote Ghanaian music content is already making waves with lots of players in the industry already pledging their support for the initiative.

The campaign dubbed “I support 80% Ghana music on our airwaves”, aims at gaining more airplay for Ghanaian music and contents of same on radios and TVs in order to promote the growth of our music brands as well as the industry which in the long term helps the development individual brands and attractiveness.

The CEO of George Britton interactive, having listened to complaints from many industry players, started the I support 80% GH Music to help change the dangerous trend with some publicists, brand manager, artistes, DJs etc. already joining the campaign.

In an interview with Ghana's Hits after Hits maker, Guru, he stated it was very important to push the agenda, explaining that it will help promote not just the artistes, but the whole entertainment industry and also attract the needed help in terms of investor.

“The more we play our songs, the more we promote our artist and their songs to the public promoters will have no choice than to book the Ghanaian artistes for shows because their songs are known (hits) and they can entertain the audience when booked as well as their foreign counterparts.”

Photos : Abraham Attah Receives 10k Toms Foot Wears From Manufactures

Award winning young Ghanaian Actor, Abraham Attah, has received the 10,000 pieces of Toms foot wear as promised by manufactures after he was spotted wearing Toms at the Oscars.

The young actor who came into the spotlight after his breakthrough role in the movie ‘Beast Of No Nation” meets with members of the press today at the Gold Coast Restaurant in Accra Ghana to officially announce receiving the Toms which will be distributed to deprived kids from various communities.

Executive Director of Bright Generation community foundation,Mrs Bernice Dapaah, presented him with the package on behalf of Officials of Toms Foot Wear. She commended him for hoisting the flag of Ghana high.

She added that the foundation has been working with Toms in the past years and giving out foot wears to deprived kids around the world. She revealed that they wish to have a long lasting relationship between the brand and Abraham Atta.

Months after Jon Germain's single TELL ME appeared on USA mix tape Coast to Coast and him being compared to Chris Brown and Drake by USA journalist Jonathan Bogart, the TV/Radio Icon and Singer/songwriter released a single that got a lot of people talking.

First was the controversial title that got me excited about hearing the song.. And Secondly was the fact that the single featured Ghanaian Hip Hop heavy weights EL & Dee Moneey.

Months after the release Cypress Ghana has been following comments on social media and it seems I am not the only one who was blown away by the song which turned out to be an absolute classic.

The last tweet that Jon Germain him self retweeted was when a lover of the song tweeted saying "Jon Germain is way ahead of his time #threesome . I run through many tweets and after an awesome video release for the single. It seems the song is a major success.

Check out video on YouTube

‘Are You The One’ A Mystery Or Reality?

There has been a massive concern about a picture and video making rounds on social media about something called ‘Are You the One’.

For the past few days, a bold picture of a faceless personality in a hood has been flooding various timelines on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram among other social media platforms.

On the other side, there was a video of this same hooded personality with a voice that says “are you the one? Coming soon”

Others have also spotted this strange hooded personality in our newspapers with the same inscription as well. The element of surprise attached to this whole thing has got several people around the country asking it is.

As to whether this ‘Are you the one’ craze has to do with a campaign, promotion, event or a movie or series, still remains a mystery.

Meanwhile no organization or face has been attached to this and makes it very difficult to know about.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

AU, AFRIMA Jury unveil AFRIMA 3.0 Nominees list

The African Union and the 13-man Jury of the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, have unveiled the Nominees List for the 2016 edition of AFRIMA, the continent’s leading music awards.

The highly anticipated Nominees List for the 2016 awards tagged AFRIMA 3.0. was announced to the world media on Monday, August 22, at the Protea Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos with live online broadcast.

In attendance were officials of the African Union Commission, members of the AFRIMA Jury, members of the International Committee of AFRIMA, past AFRIMA winners and nominees, media executives and other stakeholders in the creative/entertainment industries of Africa.

According to the Moderator of the adjudication process, Mr. Mike Strano, about 2700 entries from African music professional were received during the period of May 20, 2015 to July 30, 2016. Describing the nominations process as careful and thorough, Mr. Strano harped on the Jury’s resolve to be fair and transparent.

Award winning Ghanaian musician and the King of African Dancehall, Shatta Wale, this afternoon paid a courtesy call on the Ghanaian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, Hon. Victor Smith.

The musician who is currently in London for his much anticipated show, Shatta Live In London, scheduled for the Indigo 02 on Friday 26h August 2016 was in the company of his management team and organisers of the show, Akwaaba UK.

Shatta Wale took the opportunity to introduce to the High Commissioner his Corporate Social Initiative, Shatta Supports and further spoke about the dynamics for his Peace Advocacy Campaign, #Shatta4Peace, which aims at maintaining the peace and stability in the country before, during and after the general election in December 2016.

Shatta Wale presented copies of his latest album, "After The Storm" to Mr. Victor Smith and staff of the High Commission.

See More Photos After The Cut....

One of SA’s most loved actresses, Gail Mabalane, has joined the cast of Mzansi Magic’s telenovela, Greed & Desire. Her first episode airs tonight, Wednesday, 24 August 2016, at 19:30 on Mzansi Magic, DSTV Channel 161.

Gail Mabalane will appear on our screens as Cassandra Mabandla, an intelligent and sassy cop who’s no nonsense “Olivia Pope” attitude will keep viewers truly enthralled.

Cassandra Mabandla will play a very central role in the telenovela and Greed & Desire fans are encouraged to keep posted to see what unravels.

You can catch Gail Mabalane on Greed & Desire every Monday to Thursday at 19:30 on Mzansi Magic on DSTV Channel 161.

“I'm excited to join another Mzansi Magic production. This is an exciting character for me to play. I always look forward to being challenged with every new role I take on.

Botswana's representative in Big Brother Africa Amplified Game Goabaone Bantsi, better known by his stage name Zeus is now an engaged man.

Zeus recently proposed to his girlfriend on the Brooklyn Bridge in New York USA and guess what, she obviously said yes.

The star took to social media where posted the photos above with the following caption: "#SheSaidYES 💍#BrooklynBridge #NewYork🗽@zetforzandi #YouAreTheOne #IloveYou".

#SheSaidYES 💍#BrooklynBridge #NewYork🗽@zetforzandi #YouAreTheOne #IloveYou😘

A photo posted by Goabaone Bantsi (@zeusdeuceafrika) on Aug 14, 2016 at 6:25pm PDT

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

Drama, Romance And Comedy – This Week On Zee World!!!

Check out the highlights for Zee World on DStv and GOtv in the coming week!

Silver Lining

After much persuasion Sam agrees to stay until after Paris’s adoption. Chetna suffers a heart attack when she finds out about Sam’s involvement in Paris’s adoption plot. Revati is shocked to find out that their property in the USA have been sealed by the bank. Devki and Revati join forces to sell the orphanage. Isha takes responsibility when Arjun’s mother complains about a letter sent to Arjun. Chetna takes Isha to her house to teach Kuhu but Revati has other plans for her.

The Vow

A series of events trigger Sagar’s memory of the accident and who is behind it, but what will he do with the information? Sagar and Vydia come up with a plan to take control of the power of attorney. Sindoora resorts to a life threatening situation to get Sagar to tell her the truth. Sindoora breaks out and vents out her anger on Sagar not knowing that Sagar had been pretending all along.

GOtv subscribers across the country can now get more TV at a greatly reduce price. Speaking at the re-launch of GOtv in Ghana, Cecil Sunkwa-Mills, General Manager, Multichoice Ghana, said “GOtv over the last three years has been gathering consumer insight across the continent which culminates in the re-launch of the GOtv offering and pricing”.

“Subscribers have been asking for more sports, local content, movies and news amongst many others with greater affordability.”

We have listened to our subscribers on the continent and today announce a reduction in the price of the GOtv Value bouquet to Ghc18 and introduce convenient payment options on the GOtv Lite bouquet.

Host of Starr Drive on Starr 103.5FM Giovani Caleb has been announced as one of the judges for Airtel’s ‘Flex Awesome You’ competition.

‘Flex Awesome You’ is to unearth young talented people to showcase their skills to the world at its Head Office in Accra on Thursday.

The competition, named after the company’s recently launched data bundle, Airtel Flex, presents Ghanaians with a unique opportunity to demonstrate their talents and stand a chance to be rewarded with cash prizes and Airtel Souvenirs over the period of the competition.

Speaking at the launch, Cornelius Kakrabah, Head of Brands and Marketing Communications at Airtel, said, “Airtel Ghana is reputed for empowering Ghanaians to fully realise their potential through various initiatives and competitions we promote.

“Flex Awesome You is a unique opportunity for young people and the young at heart to exhibit their awesomeness by sharing their talents with the rest of the world and get rewarded for it.

Organizers of the Nigeria Most Beautiful Ghana has open a call for VENDORS & VOLUNTEERS for the maiden edition of Nigeria’s Most Beautiful Ghana 2016.

The event is scheduled to be officially flag off on the 3rd of September at The Nigerian Cultural Center, Accra at 11am .

A Goodwill messages will be delivered by Mrs Adekunbi Sonaike-Ayodeji Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana.

Mr Moses Owaro the President; All Nigerian Community, Ghana will also be in attendance as well as other Nigerian dignitaries.

For participation Email: nigeriamostbeautifulghana@gmail.com

Photos Of Miss Ghana South Africa 2016 Finalists At “Gold Reef City” Theme Park In Johannesburg!

Finalists of Miss Ghana South Africa 2016 had their top most adventure outing yesterday at Gold Reef City Theme Park, positioned at South Dale in the hearts of Johannesburg ahead of the grand finale scheduled ensue exclusively on August 27, 2016 at the plush Bryanston Country Club.

The 9 contestants had their day packed with series of routines from Cee Jay’s motivational talk to roller coaster and cinemas among several actions.

Photos below under my belt from reveals the fun the ladies had through the hang out yesterday.

Joining the ladies was Mrs Africa, Refilwe Esther Fosu-Amoah.

In meantime and as we stay calm to see who rocks the enviable crown of Miss Ghana SA tonight, check out photos I captured from the finalists hangout at Gold Reef City yesterday.

See More Photos After The Cut.....

It is the wish of every young lady to own a brand new car, a scholarship, monthly wardrobe, monthly cash, and a prestigious crown that comes with fame and power; this is what the Prestigious Malaika Brand brings to the table.

The most prestigious and life changing beauty pageant has returned with a big bang and a new face; Miss Malaika 2016 has kicked off already with auditions conducted a couple of weeks ago.

Once again, the battle for the most enviable crown has begun with so much heat and excitement with over 500 hopeful ladies wishing to become Miss Malaika 2016. The young Ladies Looked glammed up and queued their way into the audition room with high hopes of qualifying to the next stage of the competition.

Winner for Miss Malaika 2015, Miss Kukua Korsah is performing tremendously well on her project dubbed ‘The Girl Power Education ‘ School Tour, has had the best time of her life as the reigning Queen. The big question is, who does she hand over the Barton to this year?

Pages

Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Monday, August 29, 2016

Sunday, August 28, 2016

Saturday, August 27, 2016

Friday, August 26, 2016

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

.