I am financially thriving as a solo artist – Natty Lee


A Ghanaian dancehall sensation, Mr William Addy, known by his stage moniker, ‘Natty Lee’, is joyed over the considerable improvement in his quality of life as a solo artist compared to his tenure as a member of the Shatta Movement Militants.

The former militant shared with the Ghana News Agency that he was experiencing financial prosperity and had achieved notable success since going solo in his career, amidst reduced stress associated with his newfound independence.

He expressed gratitude for the valuable experience of collaborating with Shatta Wale, highlighting his diligent efforts that ultimately facilitated his departure from the group.

‘While I was associated with the Shatta Movement, financial gains were modest, but presently, I have garnered significant accomplishments, and I am thriving financially.

‘Working alongside Shatta was truly fulfilling; however, my financial situation was somewhat constrained. At present, I have the capacity to pursue various endeavours,’ he affirmed.

He disclosed that
he had established his own record label, directing his music videos with ease, engaging in extensive travel, and venturing into entrepreneurial ventures.

‘I have now launched my personal record label, oversee the production of my music videos effortlessly, embarked on frequent travels and delve into diverse business ventures.

‘I am now the master of my domain,’ he stated and rallied his teeming following to religiously support him.

Source: Ghana News Agency

NYC’s Times Square billboard celebrates DJ Sky’s international success

The renowned Lebanese-Ghanaian DJ and electronic music producer, DJ Sky, has reached a significant milestone in his career by being prominently featured on New York’s iconic Times Square billboard. The vibrant display, which debuted this week, celebrates DJ Sky’s rising influence on the global music scene and marks a moment of international recognition for the artist.

The feature, showcasing DJ Sky amidst the neon splendor of Times Square, highlights his growing stature as a leading figure in the electronic music industry. This coveted spot is renowned for spotlighting influential artists and significant cultural events, placing DJ Sky among the ranks of global icons.

Born in Lebanon and now flourishing in Ghana, DJ Sky has earned acclaim for his innovative fusion of electronic beats with diverse musical influences. His distinctive style and dynamic performances have attracted a substantial following, not only in Africa but also across Europe and the Middle East. This exposure in one of the world’s most cel
ebrated urban settings is expected to elevate his career further, introducing his music to a wider international audience.

In a statement, DJ Sky expressed his elation and appreciation for the honor. “Being featured in Times Square is a dream come true and a testament to the hard work and passion that I pour into my music. I am overjoyed to represent both Lebanon and Ghana on such a magnificent platform,” he stated.

This recognition follows a string of successful releases and international shows that have cemented DJ Sky’s reputation as a dynamic and inventive artist. His recent work has been lauded for its creativity and the seamless integration of cultural sounds, securing him a loyal fan base worldwide.

The Times Square feature is not just a personal victory for DJ Sky but also a significant moment for Lebanese and Ghanaian representation in the international music industry. It underscores the growing impact of artists from diverse backgrounds in shaping the future of electronic music.

As DJ Sky contin
ues to forge new paths and enchant audiences globally, this prominent acknowledgment in Times Square signifies a crucial point in his career and foreshadows even more remarkable accomplishments to come.

Fans and music aficionados can look forward to more thrilling performances and innovative releases from DJ Sky as he rises in the international music landscape.

Source: Ghana Web

Watch full video of Bawumia’s visit to ailing veteran gospel musician Yaw Sarpong

The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, paid a visit to the veteran gospel musician Yaw Sarpong, who is currently grappling with health challenges.

The report formed off-itinerary engagements by the Vice President who has been touring the NPP stronghold in the last three days.

During the visit, the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, said that the vice president’s presence aimed to uplift and assist the ailing gospel musician.

According to reports, Bawumia contributed a sum of GHS100,000 to aid Yaw Sarpong’s medical care.

Kofi TV has shared a full video of the Veep and his entourage’s arrival at the residence of the ailing musician and their engagements at the venue before they continued with campaign plans.

Accompanying the vice president were notable figures including the NPP National Chairman, Stephen Ntim; gospel artiste Nicholas Omane Acheampong, and others.

Yaw Sarpong battles stroke

It can be recalled that a coup
le of months ago, Yaw Sarpong’s manager confirmed that his artiste was indeed battling a stroke.

Nana Poku Ashis, who spoke exclusively to GhanaWeb, disclosed that the ‘Oko yi” hitmaker had been ill for over a year.

“He has been bedridden for over a year now. It started around this time last year. It was really bad when it happened a year ago, but we are hoping that he will regain his strength in the coming months,’ Ashis said.

‘Everyone needs help. We would need prayers, and those who have and are willing to help can offer him a little. The few people he has impacted with his music should also help,” he added.

Prior to Yaw Sarpong’s manager’s confirmation of his illness, gospel singers Diana Asamoah and Maame Tiwa had already informed the public.

Diana Asamoah, during her show on Angel FM on February 26, 2024, revealed that Yaw Sarpong was battling a mild stroke.

This followed Maame Tiwa’s viral video where she was weeping and pleading with God to grant Yaw Sarpong ‘healing’.

Source: Ghana Web

Nollywood actor, Sule Suebebe is dead

The Nigerian film industry is currently mourning the loss of one of its seasoned actors, Dayo Adewunmi, popularly known as Sule Suebebe, who passed away at the age of 68.

As reported by guardian.ng, Suebebe succumbed to a long-term illness on Wednesday morning at a hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Pastor Ademola Amusan, a close friend and caretaker of the actor, confirmed his passing with a heartfelt message on social media, expressing sorrow over the loss.

“It’s a sad day. Baba Suebebe passed away at the hospital this morning. May his soul rest in peace,” he shared.

Suebebe, a prominent figure in Yoruba cinema, made headlines in 2023 when he sought public financial support and expressed remorse for past mistakes.

He acknowledged his reckless lifestyle and lack of guidance, appealing for forgiveness from those he may have wronged, particularly women.

“I was just living life recklessly. I engaged in minor activities, and I was making money constantly. However, I didn’t have a mentor to warn me abo
ut my lifestyle. None of my relatives advised me. So, I saw myself as the Don.

“So, Nigerians, please. Anyone I have wronged, knowingly or unknowingly, please forgive me. I should prostrate while begging, but my health won’t allow me. Please forgive me, especially all the women I have offended. I know I have stepped on toes regarding the issue of women,” he added.

The family of the late actor will provide details of his funeral arrangements in due course.

Source: Ghana Web

NCCE leads tree planting exercise in schools at Wassa Amenfi Central


The Wassa Amenfi Central District Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in the Western Region has led a tree planting exercise in more than 20 basic and senior high schools within the district.

The theme for the 2024 edition is: ‘Growing for a Greener Tomorrow.’

Mr Anthony Kelvin Amoo, the Wassa Amenfi Central District Director of the NCCE, speaking to the Ghana News Agency in an interview, said the exercise was also part of the Commission’s Citizenship Week celebration to educate the students to adopt positive attitudes towards the growth and development of the country.

He said one of the NCCE’s mandates was to ensure citizens’ participation in nation building, thus, the tree planting exercise was to inculcate a sense of civic responsibility in the students towards protecting the environment for national development.

‘The simple act of planting a tree represents a belief that the tree will grow to provide us with clean air and water, cooling shade, habitat for wildlife, health
ier communities, and endless natural beauty for a better tomorrow,’ he said.

Mr Amoo advised the students to ensure they nurtured the trees to grow and provide serene learning environment for improved academic performance.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Ghanaian artistes’ absence at 2024 AfroNation Portugal disturbing – Berny Sarfo


Mr. Berny Sarfo, Chief Executive Officer of Bizzle Entertainment, says the absence of Ghanaian artistes at this year’s AfroNation Portugal, is a bad signal for the music industry. 

 This year’s AfroNation Portugal concert is being headlined by Rema, Asake, Ninho, J Hus, Diamond Platnumz, Tyla, the Compozers and Odumodublvck.

 In past years Ghanaian artistes have been ever present at the AfroNation global shows with the likes of Black Sherif, Camidoh and Stonebwoy rocking the concert.

According to Mr Sarfo, who is a renowned Ghanaian event promoter, the absence of Ghanaian artistes at this year’s music event shows the lack of investment in our artistes and the decline of Ghana’s global music presence. 

 ‘Ghana is one of the leading nations in Afro music, and not having any artiste on the bill at this year’s AfroNation Portugal is so disturbing and also demonstrates that our artistes are not yet there.

 ‘We need massive investment in our artistes so that they can play shows outside the country because that
is one of the biggest ways of promoting Ghana. The investment can come from private individuals or even the government so as to help artists reach the international music audience,’ he said. 

 The renowned promoter also urged Ghanaian artistes to step up their game on the international stage so as to gain recognition and get booked for major international shows.

 ‘We have the talent to compete at the highest level of world music, and giving artistes all the support would prove crucial to our global music presence, and all stakeholders should work towards that. If Ghanaian music thrives globally, we all become beneficiaries,’ he said. 

 The Bizzle Entertainment CEO has over the years staged some successful shows in Europe with some Ghanaians artistes headlining the events and has helped book many of them for other shows around the world.

Source: Ghana News Agency

VRA has contributed significantly to the country’s tree planting efforts – VRA CEO

The Volta River Authority (VRA) has since the inception of the Green Ghana Day initiative planted a total of 5,600 tree seedlings with a 92 percent survival rate in support of the Green Ghana project.

Benjamin Sackey, Director for Environment and Sustainable Development at the VRA speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Volta River Authority, Emmanuel Antwi-Darkwa during the Green Ghana Tree Planting Durbar said that the Authority has up to date religiously joined the national tree planting exercise.

Sackey together with other staff of the VRA undertook the planting of some 2,500 tree seedlings planting exercise across its work locations as part of activities marking this year’s Green Ghana Day.

The Green Ghana Day initiative was introduced by the government in 2021, focusing on aggressive afforestation and reforestation programmes to restore the country’s degraded forest cover.

This year’s event targets the planting of 10 million tree seedlings nationwide.

Sackey noted that this y
ear’s Green Ghana Day with the theme, ‘Growing for a Greener tomorrow,’ highlighted the importance of the country’s forest cover to the current and future generations, adding that the massive greening campaign is not just a call to action but a beacon of hope and an epic step towards preserving the sanctity of our natural environment.

‘Over the years, we have contributed significantly to these tree-planting efforts,’ said Sackey. ‘These include initiatives such as planting 600 trees in all the VRA locations in 2021 when we celebrated our 60th anniversary, planting a degraded Sapawso Forest Extension Reserve in 2022 and planting in some designated areas within five Senior High Schools in the Asuogyaman District in 2023.’

Assessing the impact of the tree planting exercises over the past years which he said shows an impressively high survival rate that exceeds forestry set standards, he remarked: ‘Our recent assessment of the over 5,600 tree seedlings planted so far under the programme shows an impressive surv
ival rate of 92% for the planted seedlings, well surpassing the forestry standard of 70%.’

Describing the undertaking as more than environmental stewardship, Sackey indicated that the feat reflected the Authority’s unwavering commitment as guardians of national development and proponents of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He said, ‘In the age where the dialogue on sustainability, climate change resilience, and environmental protection dominates, we stand at the forefront, advocating for meaningful change.’

Stressing that the VRA had a key interest in sustainability, he urged colleagues to observe the event as a powerful reminder of the consequences that await humanity if we neglect our vegetative counterparts-climate change, desertification, soil erosion, and increased carbon footprints, among other dire outcomes.

He called on all and sundry to be proponents of change by imperatively embracing climate action through local and sustainable initiatives and to join hands in the greening journey and
further called for a collective tree-planting responsibility to safeguard the environment for generations to come.

Source: Ghana Web

Daddy Lumba has never performed well on stage before – KOD

Renowned media personality and fashion icon, Kofi Okyere Darko, popularly known as KOD, has stated that not all musicians excel at live stage performances.

He cited the legendary Charles Kwadwo Fosu, famously known as Daddy Lumba, as an example of a musician in Ghana whose stage presence has not met expectations.

Despite Lumba’s significant impact in the music industry and his reputation for hit songs, KOD pointed out that his (Lumba) live performances have been less than stellar.

Speaking on the Showbiz A-Z programme broadcasted on Joy FM, KOD mentioned that several notable artistes in the country fall short in stage performance skills hence, they should focus on improving in this area.

“Lumba is a great musician. The guy has probably the biggest repertoire in the whole of Ghana, but he’s never done well on stage before. Lumba’s never had a good day on stage. We should realize that it’s not all our musicians that are meant to be on stage for live performances.

“We should also know that you could be an a
mazing singer in releasing countless hit tracks in your lifetime, but you’re probably not meant to be on stage. There are quite a number of musicians that over the years, and it’s not just in Ghana, across the world, we force on stage because there’s an audience that wants to see them,” he told Kwame Dadzie, the host of the show.

Source: Ghana Web