A section of music stakeholders in a group photograph after the launch
The second edition of the annual Ghana Reggae Dancehall Awards (GRDA) was launched on Thursday, October 3, at the Accra Tourist Information Centre.
The Ghana Reggae Dancehall Awards aims to fill a significant gap in the Ghanaian music industry, and it is dedicated solely to reggae and dancehall in Ghana.
The launch ceremony, which was attended by music industry stakeholders including reggae dancehall acts, highlighted the significance of the awards scheme, which celebrates excellence in reggae and dancehall music across the nation.
Established in 2022, the awards scheme has quickly become a premier event in Ghana’s music scene, recognising and rewarding talented artistes and industry players alike.
The GRDA will commence with call for entries from October 10 to November 10, to be followed by the announcement of nominees on November 31.
This will be followed by a Nominees Jam on December 13, with the climax on December 15, 2024 at the Gold Coast Restaurant and Bar in Accra.
The GRDA will cover thirty categories, ensuring a comprehensive and detailed celebration of reggae and dancehall’s various subgenres and contributors.
Speaking at the launch, the coordinator for the GRDA, Daniel Yeboah, said the scheme is a welcome development to appreciate the work of reggae and dancehall artistes.
He also called on Corporate Ghana to throw its weight behind the scheme to celebrate the country’s hardworking artistes.
Mr. Yeboah announced an industry workshop aimed at enhancing skills and navigating the evolving digital landscape of music distribution.
Ahuma Ocansey aka Daddy Bosco, who spoke on behalf of the GRDA board, indicated that the awards scheme is exclusively for reggae dancehall artistes.
He also spoke about the love affair between reggae music and the Ghanaian public, noting that Nana Kwame Ampadu recorded the first reggae song by a Ghanaian as far back as 1969, since then artistes like Sympleman Cantey, Felix Bell, General Marcus and Roots Anabo have all contributed their quota to the growth of reggae and dancehall music in Ghana.
Other speakers at the launch included ace reggae presenter, King Lagazee, who bemoaned what seemed like a discrimination against reggae and dancehall music and musicians.
“The reggae and dancehall scene in Ghana is vibrant, diverse, and constantly evolving. Having just two categories at the Telecel Ghana Awards (TGMAs) does not do justice to the immense talent, creativity, and contributions of these artistes,” King Lagazee said at the press launch.
Prince Fiifi Yorke
