Black Sherif Crowned TGMA AOTY
By Esther Korantemaa Offei
The Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre came alive on Friday night as Ghana’s finest musicians, producers and creatives gathered for the 27th edition of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards, an event that once again proved why it is regarded as the biggest night in Ghanaian music.
Held under the theme, “A Touch of Glitter,” the ceremony blended glamour, emotion and celebration, with artistes and guests stepping onto the red carpet in dazzling fashion while fans across the country tuned in to witness history unfold.
The night belonged largely to Black Sherif, who was crowned Artiste of the Year after an impressive year marked by chart-topping releases and powerful performances. The 24-year-old musician also won Album/EP of the Year for Iron Boy, Songwriter of the Year for Sacrifice, Best HipHop Song for Where Dem Boys, and Best Afropop Song for Sacrifice, making him one of the biggest winners of the evening.
Receiving the ultimate honour, Black Sherif appeared emotional as fans inside the auditorium erupted in cheers. His victory came in what many industry observers described as one of the fiercest Artiste of the Year competitions in recent history, with fellow nominees including Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, Medikal, Wendy Shay and Diana Hamilton.
The atmosphere throughout the night reflected the growing influence of Ghanaian music both locally and internationally. Electrifying performances from Wendy Shay, Kofi Kinaata and Black Sherif kept patrons on their feet, while performances from, Medikal, Piesie Esther and Diana Hamilton added variety and excitement to the show.
One of the emotional highlights of the evening came when Piesie Esther won Best Traditional Gospel Song with Nyame Ye. Speaking in an exclusive interview with The New Finder, the gospel singer expressed gratitude and joy over the recognition.
“I hope for nothing but the best,” she said with a smile before receiving the award.
Another standout moment came when singer-songwriter Enam won Best Female Vocal Performance for Amin. In a heartfelt interview with the New Finder after her win, Enam described the award as a victory not only for herself but for a larger spiritual and cultural movement.
“This means so much to the land because the land has risen,” she said. “I am grateful to be among the chosen ones leading this agenda. Music is about to take its seat again.”
The singer explained that her music reflects her beliefs and personal journey, adding that listeners should be able to see authenticity in the lives of artistes.
“When someone speaks of something, you should see it around them. My music is highly vibrational and controlled by high frequencies,” she noted.
Enam also used the occasion to announce an upcoming album featuring songs such as Amin, AFA and MODZI. According to her, MODZI carries a message of hope and spiritual protection.
“May your path be sanctified wherever you go,” she said. “May people flourish in the works of their hands and move safely through life.”
The night also brought redemption and joy for music duo Keche, who won Group of the Year after suffering disappointment in previous editions. Before the announcement, the duo had confidently told THE NEW FINDER they believed the award would finally come their way.
“Last year we were disappointed, but we hoped tonight would be different,” they said. “We came here believing we would grab the award.”
In the gospel category, Diana Hamilton was named Best Gospel Artiste, while Kofi Owusu Peprah secured Best Urban/Contemporary Gospel Song for Big God Afro.
Beyond the awards and performances, TGMA 27 once again highlighted the emotional connection between music and everyday life in Ghana. From gospel songs that inspire hope, to rap music that speaks to the struggles of the youth, the event reminded audiences that music remains a powerful voice for the people.
