The buzz is palpable on the University of Ghana campus as students weigh in on the freshly unveiled nominees for the 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), announced over the weekend in a live TV3 broadcast that aired on Saturday, March 15. With the spotlight firmly on the top musical talents of 2024, the excitement is building ahead of the main awards ceremony slated for May 3 at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC).
The nominees’ announcement, hosted by the dynamic AJ Akuoko Sarpong, showcased a fiercely competitive lineup, drawing from over 1,500 entries submitted by more than 130 artists. From chart-topping hits to soul-stirring gospel anthems, the 26th TGMA promises to celebrate the diversity and vibrancy of Ghana’s music scene. Among the standout categories, the coveted Artiste of the Year pits heavyweights like King Promise, Black Sherif, Stonebwoy, Kweku Smoke, King Paluta, Team Eternity, and Joe Mettle against one another—a lineup that’s already sparking heated debates among Legon students.
Debates Heat Up on Campus
Opinions on the Album of the Year race are divided. A Political Science student and music enthusiast made a case for rapper Kweku Smoke, saying:
“I think it’s good for Kweku Smoke to win Album of the Year.”
However, gospel fans are rooting for Team Eternity, citing their massive success with Defe Defe. A first-year student argued:
“I’m into gospel music, so I would say Team Eternity for Artiste of the Year. We had the number one song—Defe Defe was everywhere! I think Testimony should win Album of the Year. It’s only fitting they take both.”
A Level 100 Psychology student also supported Team Eternity but acknowledged stiff competition:
“The Gospel Artiste of the Year category is tough! Diana Hamilton, Team Eternity, and Joe Mettle all did great last year. But since Defe Defe trended throughout the year, I think Team Eternity deserves it.”
New Artistes Generate Buzz
It’s not just the top-tier categories getting attention—students are also rallying behind fresh talent in the New Artiste of the Year category. Rising star OlivetheBoy has captured the hearts of many.
“OlivetheBoy’s Asylum was my anthem last semester,” said Naa Shika, a first-year Business Administration student. “Seeing him nominated feels like a win for us newbies on campus who vibe to his music.”
TGMA: Ghana’s Grammy Moment
For students, the TGMA is more than just an awards show—it’s a celebration of Ghanaian music culture.
“TGMA is our Grammy,” declared Kojo Asante, a final-year Engineering student. “It’s where we see our heroes get their flowers. I expect Team Eternity to sweep the gospel categories—Defe Defe was a spiritual banger!”
Not everyone is convinced about clear winners, though. Efua Boateng, a Literature major, is hoping for surprises:
“The Telecel Most Popular Song category is wide open. I’d love to see something unexpected take it—maybe Kofi Kinaata’s Effiakuma Broken Heart.”
Countdown to the Big Night
With just weeks to go, TGMA festivities will kick off with a pre-party on May 2 at the AICC, bringing together nominees, industry insiders, and fans. The awards night itself will feature thrilling performances, star-studded appearances, and red-carpet moments sure to dominate social media.
On campus, students are already planning watch parties, debating predictions, and streaming their favorite nominees’ songs. Ama Serwah, a self-proclaimed music lover, summed up the anticipation perfectly:
“I just hope the show lives up to the hype… and that the hostel Wi-Fi holds up for streaming it!”
More details, including performer lineups and ticket information, will be released in the coming weeks. But one thing is certain—the TGMA 2024 fever is in full swing, and University of Ghana students are here for it!
Story by: Maxwell Danquah_univers.ug.edu.gh
