This year’s edition distinctly celebrated the best of Ghanaian music and marked a defining moment for Afrobeats sensation King Promise, who confidently clinched the coveted Artiste of the Year title, along with several other major wins.
The 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) has once again captivated African entertainment enthusiasts, setting the stage for a night of glitz, glamour, and groundbreaking achievements.
Since its inception in 1999, the Ghana Music Awards has evolved into the nation’s most prestigious music event, recognizing and rewarding outstanding musicians, songwriters, producers, and industry professionals.
The awards serve as a barometer for success within Ghana’s vibrant music industry, boosting the visibility and careers of its recipients while spotlighting the continent’s rich musical diversity.
The 2025 edition, held at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre, was a testament to the awards' enduring influence, featuring electrifying performances, emotional tributes, and a star-studded red carpet. The ceremony’s impact extends beyond Ghana’s borders, reinforcing the country’s status as a powerhouse in African entertainment.
The highlight of this year’s TGMA was the triumph of King Promise, born Gregory Bortey Newman, who secured the Artiste of the Year award after years of consistent hits and artistic growth. His win was met with a standing ovation, reflecting widespread industry and fan support.
King Promise’s achievements on the night included:
- Artiste of the Year
- Best Afropop Song of the Year (“Paris”)
- Afrobeats/Afropop Artiste of the Year
- Best Album/EP of the Year (True to Self)
In his acceptance speech, King Promise expressed deep gratitude to his fans and family:
“If anyone is watching me right now who has a dream, use me as an example of resilience. My first year, when I broke out on the scene, I had seven nominations and left with zero. While some people laughed, I just worked harder because I believe in God’s timing. Today, I’m the chosen one.”
His journey from early setbacks to this career-defining win has inspired both peers and aspiring artists across Africa.
Major Winners and Key Figures
The 2025 TGMA celebrated a diverse array of talent, with notable winners across multiple genres:
King Paluta: Most Popular Song of the Year (“Aseda”), Highlife Song of the Year, Producer of the Year
Stonebwoy: Best Reggae/Dancehall Song of the Year, Best Music Video (“Jejereje”)
Joe Mettle: Best Male Vocalist, Gospel Artiste of the Year
Esther Godwyll: Best Female Vocal Performance (“I Choose to Praise”)
Beeztrap KOTM: Best New Artiste
Ayisi: Record of the Year, Audio Engineer of the Year
The event also honored industry veterans, with Yaw Sarpong receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award for his enduring contribution to Ghanaian gospel music.
Public Reception and Industry Perspectives
The public and industry response to this year’s awards was overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding King Promise’s long-awaited recognition. Social media buzzed with congratulatory messages, and fellow nominees like King Paluta publicly celebrated his win:
“Congratulations to Big Greg @IamKingPromise! Apicki!” - King Paluta
Critics and fans alike praised the TGMA for its evolving inclusivity and efforts to address past criticisms, such as improving nomination transparency and recognizing the impact of digital platforms and alternative music genres.
King Promise’s message resonated deeply with fans:
“Super, super thankful for this award. Shoutout to the fans. It’s because of you people we dey here. Big love, big love. I will be back.”
The Broader Impact on Ghanaian and African Entertainment
The 2025 Ghana Music Awards underscored the growing influence of Ghanaian music on the African and global stage. King Promise’s international appeal, marked by sold-out tours across continents and chart-topping singles, exemplifies how Ghana’s artists are shaping the future of Afrobeats and contemporary African music.
The 2025 Ghana Music Awards was a defining moment for African entertainment, with King Promise’s triumph symbolizing resilience, growth, and the limitless potential of Ghanaian music. As the event continues to set the standard for excellence and innovation, it remains a beacon for artists and fans across the continent, inspiring the next generation to dream bigger and reach higher.
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