“I’ve realized the words most admirers say to me on phone and in public,” admits Jennifer on how her songs has touched people.

In addition to numerous television and radio appearances she had during her promotion period in Ghana, Jennifer has participated in a few events.

The road to Jennifer’s current musical mainstream status has not been an easy road but she knows the good lord is her light as she makes her journey to spread her word through her music.

Jennifer is currently preparing to release her next album, and on that project, she has enlisted the help of some familiar gospel musicians like Lady Prempeh and Nii Okai.

“Some of my favorite tunes like “Yeyiwo Aye” and “Ayikoo”, has been burning its way to the charts in Ghana”.

Jennifer’s gospel fans have continued to grow, as she has given birth to a new album, “Might Power”. Jennifer spent some time with Ghana Music.com to discuss it all.

Ghana Music.com: How successful has the album been so far?
Jennifer: Very splendid, so far so good

Ghana Music.com: In retrospect, could you see yourself doing something else aside from being a musician?
Jennifer: Honestly I see myself as God’s servant preaching out the gospel to mankind and inspiring people

Ghana Music.com: What makes Jennifer’s album unique?
Jennifer: The powerful voice I posses, style of music and the quality sound formation.

Ghana Music.com: Who are your mentors?
Jennifer: Cece Winans, Yolanda Adams, and Vicky Yohe.

Ghana Music.com: I read that you have travelled round the world to minister through your music. Tell us about your best experience?
Jennifer: My best experience was in Italy where my ministration touched so many lives.

Ghana Music.com: Are you currently working on any other projects outside your album?
Jennifer: Basically am planning to organize an N.G.O. for women and children affairs, with the aim of catering for the needy ones in our society.

Ghana Music.com: Do you have a philosophy you live by and would you like to share it?
Jennifer: Be determined to face test of life, with an open mind and faith, it always counts in our Christian life. Because the Bible says for without faith it is impossible to please God. Persistence and determination, you will be the winner.

Ghana Music.com: Do you realize how important your music is to people?
Jennifer: Yes I realize it by the response from most admirers.

Ghana Music.com: You’ve worked with many artists but is there an artist that you would like to work with that you haven’t yet?
Jennifer: Nii Okai and Lady Prempeh.

Ghana Music.com: How long have you been involved in the music ministry?
Jennifer: Almost 16 years.

Ghana Music.com: Are you the sole writer of your songs? How do you get inspired to write your lyrics?
Jennifer: Not all because I am a giver. I always like to give someone else an exposure. You see God is looking for true worshipers who will worship him in spirit and truth, therefore there are people who can write powerful anointed songs but they cannot sing, so as a minister or an artist you have to make sure you don’t become selfish to allow those voices to be heard too.

Ghana Music.com: What is your targeted audience?
Jennifer: Most importantly the youth, mothers and fathers.

Ghana Music.com: Is there a specific song on your current album that adequately translates the message and passion of your album?
Jennifer: “Ye Yi Woaye” and “Closer To Thee”.

Ghana Music.com: Your final message to your Ghanaian, Switzerland and worldwide fans?
Jennifer: They should watch out for more powerful inspirational songs coming out soon.

Related:

• Video: Yeyiwo Aye by Jennifer Chonia
• Video: Ayikoo by Jennifer Chonia
• Ghanaian artiste spreads the word in Switzerland
• Jennifer is out!!!

Tema has always been a breeding ground for dope artists. From 2Ga to Chemphe to Gogomi now known as Mugeez to Sarkodie and more, Tema has always had a wide array of talent that can satisfy any type of Ghanaian music fan. Commercial and underground, Tema has them both. The latest group to throw their hat in the ring is R2Bees.

The crew has already started making waves and if they keep this up, the sky is the limit with songs like “Yawa Girl” and “I Dey Mad”. With sing along rhymes and a whole nation devoted to them, it seems like it’s only a matter of time. Watch Video: I Dey Mad by R2Bees

Ghana Music.com recently caught up with Paedae da Pralem to discuss about their album, working with Kill Beat, and how R2Bees came about.R2Bees are now beginning a new chapter of their career as grown men with R2Bees Entertainment.  Their grown up look, swagger, and sound can be found on their forthcoming release, “Da Revolution”.

Ghana Music.com got it snappin’ and poppin’ with Mugeez, Paedae, John and Gomiski whiles listening to the unreleased album (my favourite song was “Black Plantation”, I wonder what they meant by that title) as we discussed the growth of the group and more.

R2Bees is more than comfortable in their own skin (got their own full furnished crib with the latest high tech gadgets, speak of PS3, Plasma TV, gym, they have); now let’s see if that sets a trend for others to follow in their footsteps or if you think you are fit to join R2Bees or have business deals for R2Bees, please call 233 24 311 8466.

Ghana Music.com: The first R2Bees single, “Yawa Girl” dropped some months ago. Why is it taking so long to drop the whole album?
R2Bees: First of all the album isn’t out yet, it’ll be launched on 17th December 2008 and “Yawa Gal”, a song which was just meant for the street is the reason we’re actively in this music business right now, the song did way too well underground and we couldn’t afford not to bring it to the mainstream.

Ghana Music.com: Are you trying to appeal to a new audience or satisfy the fans you have already built up?
R2Bees: You know obviously this music thing is all about your fan base, the more you get people to listen to you, the more you gain not only financially you become influential in some way to the youth who are our major targets, so like an epidemic, I urge you to spread the word.

Ghana Music.com: So basically you all put joint efforts to bring different elements from each other to the table.
R2Bees: Yeah, each and every one of us is unique in their own way, as in individual talents etc, so it’s more of everybody actually contributing with their solo talents to collectively make this dream a reality.

Ghana Music.com: Where do you see the group in five years as a result?
R2Bees: It’s said if what happens in one’s day to day life is a physical manifestation of your thoughts and dreams then it’s good to have a dream, so on that note I’d say in five years R2Bees will be the biggest thing that ever happened not to Ghana but to Africa.

Ghana Music.com: So what is R2Bees up to right now?
R2Bees: We in the studios right now, completing “DA REVOLUTION”.

Ghana Music.com: The word “R2Bees” is tossed around a lot these days. What do you guys feel about it?
R2Bees: We feel great, you know, I mean seriously not overwhelming but it feels wonderful, because to us it’s a legacy we’re fulfilling. One of my managers whom I’ve known from when I was 6-7 years old was asking me to pinch him the other day because he’s still in dreamland, we from a hood where we didn’t have role models, we from a hood where there’s less hope, we from a hood where nobody believes in you so you’re totally lost if u don’t believe in yourself, that’s why I keep saying we’re diamonds mined from dust.

Ghana Music.com: On that note, what’s the meaning behind Refuse 2 be broke?
R2Bees: I believe it explains itself, WE SIMPLY REFUSE 2 BE BROKE.

Ghana Music.com: How do you guys stay different from other Ghanaian musicians and even worldwide?
R2Bees: To us hiplife is dead because we for sure don’t want to be out with our 5th or 6th  album and still be broke. Which industry do u call this? A successful one? Hell no, the politics surrounding the business is terrible and most of the artists believe more in cheap popularity rather than actually making a career out of it, that’s why when artists here are interviewed, they’re always asked aside music what do u do? The general public’s perception itself undermines the integrity/credibility of the Industry, Why??because the structure is ‘wack’.

Ghana Music.com: How did you guys meet, come together and form the group - R2Bees?
R2Bees: We all family you get me, Mugeez is my cousin, and we’re fronting for the label, the next generation of r2bees is Under, Humble, Waddle, McKay, these are signed artist to the label, and apart from McKay who although is from my Hood haven’t known him from Childhood, But the rest I bottle-fed each and every one of them, So you see, ‘We Fam’.

Ghana Music.com: Who are your musical influences?
R2Bees: 2 Pac, Bob Marley, Biggie, Jay Z, Nas, Sizzla, i’ll go on and on, but we’re massive fans of hip hop and dancehall.

Ghana Music.com: In the studio, how do you come to a consensus on what to release or when a track is ready - is there ever a struggle?
R2Bees: Naah, most at time, me and Mugeez because we finish the songs at home before we even get to the studios, so Kill Beats just kills the beat he has made, other times he does the beats, send them to us to listen and we do the song. Mugeez does most of the hooks and choruses, we call him Mr. Music Man…Boy has got so much talent it hurts..

Ghana Music.com: You have your song “I Dey Mad” on the radio right now, what is it like working your way to the top in the music industry?
R2Bees: Experience is the best teacher really, you know and we’re experienced in life enough to know that hard work pays regardless, because in everything you do, it being good or bad, with determination and hard work, you get results, so for us to be doing something this positive we vowed to put in our all, and u can see it’s paying off.

Ghana Music.com: Do you have a most memorable performance??
R2Bees: I should think it’s Tuga’s Birthday Party at Barcadis night Club in Tema, that night was off the hook, and our first major outdoor appearance was the Hits FM Homowo Beach Jam, the Energy we took up there was sensational

Ghana Music.com: Was it exciting at first to kind of go somewhere and be swamped by fans. How do you guys embrace that?
R2Bees: It’s exciting to know that people are excited and moved by your work, and we’re the people’s people, so we interact perfectly with our fans

Ghana Music.com: Best thing about R2Bees?
R2Bees: We could have lost guard dreaming in another way, but we chose the right path, That’s why we’re smiling on this day.

Ghana Music.com: I heard you’re executively producing the album? Do you have a name for it?
R2Bees: Yeah it’s entitled “DA REVOLUTION”

Ghana Music.com: What do you pay more attention to: performing, sales or studio?
R2Bees: Right now, its studio.

Ghana Music.com: Paedae have you ever considered anything other than music?
R2Bees: Yeah am blessed with a versatile talent, like anything I wanna do, with determination and a little hard work am able to do it, thought of football, acting, etc, I can only do a job that can be categorized under entertainment, because I love entertainment and a wise one once told me, in any business you try to invest in it. Let your passion for the work outweigh the profits because you could lose everything thinking about profits if you don’t love the work.

Ghana Music.com: Do you have any artists in mind for future collaborations?
R2Bees: We already done this massive hit with Samini, and we working on putting 9ice on a Track, the boy is on fire. Otherwise, wait till album is Out, you see who’s in.

Ghana Music.com: You do a lot of your own production but do you plan on producing for any other artists?
R2Bees: Yes of course, to all the artistes out there, who believe they have the talent, product and skill that’s marketable not only in Ghana but across our shores then holla at your boi.

Ghana Music.com: Outside of the industry, who is Paedae?
R2Bees: Am just an average man living his dream, I mean someone who could barely afford a decent meal 5-6 years ago is out here grinding now, hahaha, the sky can’t even be my Limit.

Ghana Music.com: How does R2bees plan on leaving their mark in the industry?
R2Bees: They Came, They saw and Obviously Conquered…..Amen.

Related:

• Lyrics: I Dey Mad - R2Bees
• Video: I Dey Mad by R2Bees
• Video: Yawa Girl by R2Bees

According to Pastor Beecham, there is no system or body to check musicians when they are going astray and as a result some make unguarded statements and put up behaviours that go to tarnish the image of the music industry.

Another worrying phenomenon is the resort to the air waves and other forms of media to settle misunderstandings arising from the lyrics of the songs they play.

Disclosing these to The Saturday Statesman, Pastor Beecham noted, “in the European countries and even some parts of the African continent, musicians are coached on what to say and the kind of dress to wear before they come out but in Ghana it is different, any musician can just get up to sit on air and say what ever that comes out from his/her mouth being it profane or threatening language, they don”t bother.

When it comes to the young ones it’s worse, the way they dress shabbily on stage to perform is so sad, even at big occasions.”

“I’m not saying that musicians should be taught how to run their lives but at least when it comes to ethics, there must be a proper body set up to train them because at the end of th day whatever they do or say on air brings disgrace to all musicians and affects the music industry as well”, he affirmed.
Pastor Joe Beecham is a powerful man of God and a musician as well.

He began his music career in 1998 with his first album “Masem Ni”, followed by ‘Agya Fakye’ in 2000.

In 2002 he hit again with “Mbre Yi” but since then he has been on the quiet. The Saturday Statesman caught him right in front of a photo studio at Kwame Nkrumah Circle last Tuesday to find out why he has been silent for this while.

It’s been a long time since you came onto the music scene, what have you been doing since your last album in 2002?
I just wanted to take my time so that I will come out with something authentic before I come out but in 2006 I released an album in English entitled “Alone With God” in the United States, in fact you are very lucky to meet me here because I was preparing to go back to Takoradi.

Is that where you reside now?
Yes, because that is where my church is and it is the head quarters but we do have other branches across the country and the world.

Oh I see, no wonder we hardly see you in town these days. How long have you been in the ministry?
I’ve been in the ‘Holy fire ministry’, that’s the name of the church, for twelve years now.

So why did you release the album ‘Alone with God’ in London instead of your own country?
This album was purely an English version so I thought it will do better there than here.

But there some English songs here that are doing well on the market?
Yes I know but then the chances of the album surviving here on the market is very low, because here not every one understands the English language as compared to US but then I’m still studying the market if I can still bring it here.

Aside this, what are you working on currently?
For now I’m working on a new album which is scheduled to come out early next month.

Would you like to disclose the album title and if possible brief us about it?
Yes, it is titled “The Preachers Voice”.

All my albums are very quality and interesting to listen to but I can tell you for a fact that this album is heavily loaded with good inspirational songs which touches the heart.

It has 14 tracks on the CD and 8 on the cassette and it is a blend of English and the local language-Fante.

Do you write all the songs on your own?
Yes I write and produce it myself but His Majesty Production deals with the distribution side of it.

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a gospel musician?
Being a musician has so many obstacles in its way especially we the gospel artistes.

There are times that I will be recording in studio and the machines will just go off and even performing on stage is another problem because not all [the people you see] are human beings and not all are there for you, some are there just to destroy what you are doing.

So what do you do to ensure that these obstacles don’t get in your way?
The only key is prayers, I always pray and dedicate my albums to God before it comes out and I hope my colleagues also do the same.

Even these days it will surprise you to see a hip-life artiste or other secular artistes sending their albums to a pastor to dedicate it to God, so all must endeavour to do so because the devil is at work.

Do you see any difference in gospel music of yesterday and today?
I will say there is a difference because in those days, they sang the songs to preach God’s message and not necessarily the money aspect of it.

But today what do we see, it has become commercially motivated and a lot of them have joined just because they have seen there is money in it. In every gospel song, the gospel must be preached first before any thing else.

Is there anything else that you would like to add?
What I will say to Ghanaians and my fellow musicians is that, politics is not a monster so they should stop criticising others who sing at political rallies because when they do that, they make people believe that it is something  dangerous and frightening that one shouldn’t get closer to.

Just recently I was invited to perform at the 16th anniversary of the NPP, in the beginning I decided not to go but when I saw the other gospel artistes on the bill I accepted it because if a political party has thought it wise to invite us to thank the Lord then it means God’s presence is in it, and it will surprise you to see the way God was touching people through the song that I was ministering on that day.

This shows that God works everywhere so it is high time Ghanaians understand that there is nothing strange about this.

Related:

• Gospel musicians descend on Kumasi
• Lumba creates enemies for himself
• ‘Believe In Ghana’ concert hits Tamale
• I’ll not reject offer from NPP for my song - Sidney
• Sidney sacks NDC over ‘Our Money’
• Mad rush for NPP
• You’re fired! - MUSIGA tells Ampadu
• Daddy Lumba joins NPP
• Musicians fall for Nana Addo
• Lord Commey snubs musicians

There are selected few artists in hip-hop that despite never having had real commercial success or earning a number one hit record still remain legendary in the eyes of Ghanaian music lovers. There’s something about 2 Toff’s dedication to music that just makes fans want to ride with them.

Being on the scene since early 2000, 2 Toff broke into the game with a little help from Castro, Babashanti, and a few top artistes in the game.

Their last album was shelved thus the group was forced to seek out a new recording home and now they are back with a big bang better than ever. Hearsays trickling in from the states say a few of the songs is receiving critical acclaim.

Years have passed and 2 Toff plus Toff Hell Razah are still in the game releasing a new album and hope to do solo projects in the near future. Ghana Music.com caught up with 2 Toff to discuss their rise in the rap game.

Ghana Music.com: I see there is a new member. Has he joined 2 Toff or Toff Gunz?
2 Toff: No, black is not a new member. He was shot when we were coming to Ghana and he was hospitalized for a very long time but has now joined us.

Ghana Music.com: Do you guys ever get into conflicts when recording since you all come from different musical backgrounds?
2 Toff: No, it does not because we are very supportive of each other and encourage one another on a daily basis.

Ghana Music.com: Speaking of musical influences, what has been yours in the States?
2 Toff: Yes we have been influenced by great artists and have performed a few shows in the USA.

Ghana Music.com: What can people hear from your new ‘bomb?
2 Toff: People will hear real life stories and all of the pain we have been through on a positive note.

Ghana Music.com: What new sounds are you all ‘pumping’ into on this record?
2 Toff: We are delivering a lot of hiplife and south side beats from the USA.

Ghana Music.com: How do you guys keep that chemistry going?
2 Toff: We always motivate one another by treating each other with dignity and respect at all time no matter what.

Ghana Music.com: Is there any route you guys would like to take? Or are you guys content with what comes your way?
2 Toff: Yes, we will all like to do solo albums one day while still remaining as a GREAT group.

Ghana Music.com: Formerly the group was released by Nature Works Entertainment and you are all with a new record label. Fill us in?
2 Toff: Yes we are with a new record label, Gold Coast Entertainment owned by a Ghanaian named Mr. Godwin Boateng aka (Willie P. or P. Wills.)

Ghana Music.com: Do you feel you’re now grown as men in the spotlight?
2 Toff: We feel great because we have learned a lot of positive things.

Ghana Music.com: Is it difficult to get fans to listen your music with so many other new acts coming out?
2 Toff: No, because our music and style is very different and unique, it will show through our music and entertainment.

Ghana Music.com: So what’s the secret to 2 Toff’s success?
2 Toff: There is no secret to 2 Toff, everything the people will see and hear is real. That is the REAL 2 TOFF AND TOFF GUNZ.

Ghana Music.com: When people write you off by saying you’re ghetto, how does that make you guys feel?
2 Toff: People are entitled to their opinions and we all have been told that at one point in time in our lives. No matter how successful a person or group is, people will say how they feel, so we will continue to press on and make GOOD music.

Ghana Music.com: Finally, round up the interview?
2 Toff: First we would like to give thanks to God and give him all the praise. Also thanks to our CEO/Investor and his wife Mr. and Mrs. Godwin and Sharon Boateng aka (Willie P. or P. Will & Nicol), our managers who have worked so very hard to get so many things done in this little time, Mr. Kofi aka (Knyame) and Mr. Gideon owner of G Vision Production. Thanks.

Related:

• Gold Coast Ent., G Vision Prod. and Knyame Ent. presents 2 Toff & Toff Gunz album launch

It’s not common for a new artist, especially in the hiplife genre, to come out with so much confidence and passion to be the best.

Koby should be expecting something tougher than he expected, because he knows the game is choked with so many hiplifers and is passing on the message through Ghana Music.com that he wants to be number one in Ghana even though he is based in USA.

Koby’s truly superb album is a multi-faceted audio display of smart, meaningful and heartfelt lyrics coupled with creatively detailed and meticulously crafted productions.

2008 promises to be an even bigger year for Koby as he presents his album to the rest of the world. With invitations for various international shows it will indeed be a busy year. For now his distribution house is African Movies & Music Warehouse LLC and the phone number is 001 202 832 3760.

He is fully committed to maintain and increase, the many people his recordings have touched and the adoration his musical output has so far attained him. He is passionate about his music and its message, and refuses to be swayed into joining the current crop of many emerging artists doing the ’same old crap music’.

For a new artist to come out with videos  which are well directed by good directors then this handsome dude has got hia bragging right!

I don’t know about you, I am digging his swag already………Read on.

Ghana Music.com: For those that are now hearing about you for the first time, tell us about yourself?
Koby: The name is Koby Maxwell, from Saltpond, Ghana now leaving in Strata for about 10 years. I’m an instrumentalist who specializes in the bass guitar, keyboard, who can also sing, produce and write songs. Formerly, a member of “Amazing Six Band” , African Fire band and Sarkar Band of Mega Star. Things to boast of is that I was the first Ghanaian bassist that played six strings bass guitar, I had the chance to do some gig’s with Kojo Antwi, in Europe and the USA after I decided to move on with my own thing.

Ghana Music.com: Describe the first memorable day that comes into your mind during the recording of your first album?
Koby: My first album was recorded in my own studio. It was the first time of programming my own music. I was so exited and hoping God will be pleased.

Ghana Music.com: Why the big switch from gospel to hiplife?
Koby: Recording gospel music was to show God how much I loved him and appreciated him for giving me a gift and talent of music.

Ghana Music.com: Back then, could you still foresee yourself still rapping now?
Koby: Yes I know that this day will surely come because I started playing the bass guitar when I was about 10 years old playing alongside some of the most of top Ghanaian highlife bands. It was giant experience for me and I knew my time will come to do my own thing.

Ghana Music.com: Can you give me some details about your new album?
Koby: Currently, working on the completion of the album which is hip-life, hi-life, coupe de`kala, mixed with ragga. I named the whole project “Step To The Top” which is a package of an audio CD and a DVD compilation of music videos, interviews, behind the scenes, photo slide shows and more.

Ghana Music.com: How many songs are you currently sitting on?
Koby: Nine songs on the CD.

Ghana Music.com: Any collaboration?
Koby: Yes I did collabo with Redeye of 2Toff, Dickie D, Sax player from Nigeria and Seyi Clegg.

Ghana Music.com: Is there somebody you want to work with that you haven’t already?
Koby: Yes I will like to work with Kwaisey Pee, Ofori Amponsah, Castro and most of talented ones.

Ghana Music.com: Wow, how come you got world acclaimed comedian, Bill Cosby’s sister to direct your music videos. Why not a Ghanaian director?
Koby: Well, I think am blessed for that credit, but she came from the same production company that shot my “I’m Aware” video, I will love to work with Ghanaian director in the future even though I have my concept for them to direct .

Ghana Music.com: You have lots of music videos to your music catalogue. Why?
Koby: Well I just want to introduce my self again to my fans.

Ghana Music.com: This is out of the box. Which Ghanaian musician annoys you?
Koby: I love them all and what they do.

Ghana Music.com: What are the biggest mis-conception people have of you?
Koby: Am very critical and yes is true. If it must be done, it must done and done well.

Ghana Music.com: What separates you from other rappers/singers? Why should I opt to listen to your music above others?
Koby: All I can say is I’m a new guy with a different style of music.

Ghana Music.com: Now you’re going to be coming to Ghana or later in the month, what can people expect from your live show?
Koby: Yes I’m coming home soon for promotion not only Ghana but also some of West African countries to do live shows, new studio works and more.

Ghana Music.com: Ever thought of working on a project with Kwaw Kese, the most talked about GH. artiste now?
Koby: Well, I’m not a rapper but I will always like to work with someone who I can flow with.

Ghana Music.com: Your last words?
Koby: I will like to shout out to all my crew Blaise T, Sony Gil, X-posure Entertainment, Boy Alinco, Serwaa Y and all of you who are part of this project.

Related:

• Video: I’m Aware by Koby Maxwell & Veeda feat. Red Eye
• One Love West African Concert with Koby
• Koby Maxwell, US based multitalented artiste

One of Ghana’s most popular artistes, Rebecca Acheampong, popularly known as Becca in showbiz, is to embark on a world wide tour to raise funds for the alleviation of whatever pains they are going through. The tour is to be launched in December this year in Accra.

In an exclusive interview with The Saturday Statesman, Becca’s Producer, Kiki Banson, intimated that his client was going to collaborate with Kisha White, a UK-based popular artiste, to compose a song entitled, “I Believe.”

The song, according to Kiki, would be used as a ringing tone on one of the mobile telephony networks, and so as customers   download the tone theyHe said a very popular and competent accounting firm (the name of which he declined to mention) would be the Trustee for the fund and that all disbursements would be handled by it (firm).

Asked to elaborate on how the vulnerable children were going to benefit from the package, Kiki Banson said part of the money would go into renovations at the Children’s Hospital in Accra, Children’s Ward at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and other areas.

He added that a company had agreed to provide television sets and air conditioners to complement the efforts of Becca and her compatriots.

Apart from these, Kiki maintained also that they were deeply touched by reports that some mothers and their new-born babies get detained at some hospitals because of their inability to settle their hospital bills. “We are going to assist women who are often detained at the hospitals for non-settlement of bills.

However, the money is not going to be put into their hands. It will be paid into the National Health Insurance Scheme on their behalf so that the money can be used to assist them”, he told this paper.

On whether these are the only things the project, which Rebecca Acheampong has named, Becca Rescue Tour, seeks to do, Banson asserted that street children, children in the orphanages, the physically challenged, among others, would in due course be taken care of. “There is great hope for all helpless children, but things have to be done systematically”, he posited.

In a separate interview, Becca affirmed, “This project is my solely mine and that is why I have named it Becca Rescue Tou.r My major target is to uplift the unprivileged and the vulnerable children - those with chronic and mental illnesses. By so doing I will be giving back to society out of what it has turn me into.” She continued, “Children are dear to my heart.”

She eventually told this paper a little about herself and her career. Following are excerpts of the chat.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a 100% Ghanaian, born on 15 August 1984. I come from Kumasi in the Ashanti Region. Both my Mum and Dad are from Kumasi. I attended Morning Star Primary and Junior High school and Wesley Girls High School From there I went to Croydon College in London to study Diploma in Child Care Education; after which I came back to Ghana.

How did you come into the music industry?
As a matter of fact, I like singing a lot. I sing in church, in school and during musical shows. A few days after my arrival in Ghana, I heard there was a musical show some where in Accra and I decided to go there and see what was happening because I have a passion for music. As the show went on my current producer, Kiki Banson approached me and told me I could be a very good singer some day so he took me to the studio and soon I came out with my single track “You Lie to Me”, featuring Kwabena Kwabena; followed by my own album “Sugar” with 12 tracks, and I’m now working on my new album.

What is the title of this new album?
I haven’t finished yet. I’m still working on it but I will release the single track entitled, “Fire”, featuring Samini, in some few days’ time.

And did the first album do well on the market?
Yes it did very well and the demand was also very hig

So far what are some of the challenges you have faced?
For my first time it wasn’t easy at all. People think music is just going to the studio to sing, but I tell you it is very difficult. It takes a hard worker and a committed person to do it. Almost every day I had to wake up at dawn to exercise then to the studio and closed around 12pm. At times I got tired and wanted to draw back but on a second thought I was convinced that that was my future.

What do you think are some of the challenges in the industry?
Musicians need to be educated because music is not only singing. My second problem is how musicians go about their performances during entertainment shows. We are in the modern system so it is high time we changed this art of miming to live band performances. I always go out with my live band in every show that I am invited to because I don’t believe in miming, I believe in the originality of work. Miming is not music.

How has music changed your life?
It has made me a reserved person. I receive VIP treatment and favours.

How many awards have you received so far?
I have received two awards so far. I won the Record of the Year 2007 in the Ghana Music Awards and Discovery of the Year in ACRAG Awards. I’ve also been nominated in two categories in the Channel O and the Choral Awards which will take place in October and November respectively.

As a young artiste, how do you feel about these awards?
It’s a surprise to me.In actual fact, I wasn’t expecting this within this short time but all the same, I will not allow it to get into my head. I just want to thank God for letting me shine..

Do you have anything else to discuss?
No, but then I will like to advise the youth to believe and value whatever they have to do  and  do it wellI will also extend my appreciation to everyone who has made me what I am today especially, my family and my management team, EKB Records headed by Kiki Banson.

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In an exclusive interview with Ghana Music.com, SOSO steps inside the interview booth to talk about his history, what he’s been able to learn from the world around him and how his success over the last few months has changed his life, and what listeners can expect from his hit album.

Interviewer: What’s going on everybody. This is Ghana Music.com and joining me today is no other than the one and only dude, straight out from the U.K. Please welcome one of Ghana’s finest, SOSO.

Ghana Music.com: How are you doing bro?
SOSO: Holdng it down. Thanks to the Great Man up there.

Ghana Music.com: Tell us about yourself, who is  SOSO ?
SOSO: SOSO is a young man into all type of music, born and bred in Kumasi and as such comes from the Ashanti Region.

Ghana Music.com: Do you have any other name that we don’t know?
SOSO: Copa , Soso Def

Ghana Music.com: Your educational background?
SOSO: Hmm, let me see. Kings International School in Kumasi and then straight to Jhonling College, London since I relocated to the U.K

Ghana Music.com: Do you feel that the success has, in any way, shape, or form, changed the way that you approach new projects that you’re working on?
SOSO: Yeah.  I would have to say it does. The main thing is, once you become a hitmaker, you’re a hitmaker.  You’re not a “good songwriter” anymore. You can’t write good songs.  People don’t like good songs anymore.  Everybody just wants you to come in and write a smash.  So I think the expectation is high, but at the same time my expectations have always been so high of myself that it’s not really an adjustment, but it’s just kind of the way people perceive you that I think is different.  Because am gonna do what I do the same way every day – I give 100% every project I do, I don’t go up and I don’t come down.

Ghana Music.com: So what did your parents say when they heard about you singing about sneaking out at midnight whilst growing up?
SOSO: Um, they probably knew anyway. I have some pretty cool parents. It was really cool having them as my parents, because they kind of understand the whole…what am going through with my career. They really are the world’s coolest parents, I have to say. They pretty much know everything and they’re cool with it.

Ghana Music.com: What have been the challenges in you career?
SOSO: Payola. That disease is killing the industry.

Ghana Music.com: Are you doing a video for any of your songs?
SOSO: Yeah, they are in the making. Nothing really kind of extravagant yet, but we’ll see.

Ghana Music.com: So what are some of your favourite songs on the album?
SOSO: I kind of like listening to them all. Can’t single any out. They all move me.

Ghana Music.com: Do you have any kids?
SOSO: Not yet

Ghana Music.com: But I guess you are married?
SOSO: Guess the ladies are waiting in anticipation for an answer right? Well, no so can you hook me up? (Laughs)

Ghana Music.com: How long do you wish to be in showbiz?
SOSO: Till death. It’s part of my life. I eat, drink and sleep showbiz. Can’t do without it. I guess you know you can’t live without your heart. If you have no heart, you have no life so my heart is showbiz.

Ghana Music.com: What do you want to do after your present profession?
SOSO: Be an international music producer.

Ghana Music.com: Do you have any regrets in life?
SOSO: Guess not rather I have some moments in life and that is knowing GOD.

Ghana Music.com: I guess you definitely have other things you do during your leisure hours apart from music? So tell us, what are your hobbies, your favourite colour and food?
SOSO: I love Soccer and basketball and something reddish is what I go for. When it comes to food, I think I’ll go for Fufu.

Ghana Music.com: Who do you like in the music industry apart from yourself and who is yor role model?
SOSO: Lord Kenya ,Okyeame Kwame Joe frazier, Batman V.I.P, BukBak (Bright), Tic Tac, Exdoe, Kontinhene, Kwaadee, Kwabena Kwabena, Obour, Obrafour, Root I , Castro, 4×4, Mzbel, A plus, almost everybody man. My role model is no musician but the father of fathers, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

Ghana Music.com: If you were to travel, where would be your first location?
SOSO: Miami

Ghana Music.com: Do you have any problem with anybody or do you have anyone you would like to apologize to?
SOSO: Not at all but if i have in any case stepped on any one’s toes, please do find it in your heart to see me as your brother.

Ghana Music.com: Your last words?
SOSO: Love, respect and trust one another. Believe in yourself and never give up.

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Ghana Music.com is back with another interview from a highlife celebrity. After creating a massive buzz with Amakye Dede’s band as a drummer in the late 90s but now settled in the states we are proud to present an in-depth interview with Ghana Boy.

Ghana Boy is wonderful person.  His verbal wordplay, clever love lyrics, dancing moves, and wicked delivery on the drums have always set him apart as one of Ghana’s most talented musicians.

The sixteen tracks deep, album features cameo from only Daasebre  Dwamena and his own blood children.

Ghana Boy’s work is been managed by Banibest Music Production and they could be reached on 001 773 837 6523 or  001 773 615 7798 for more business deals or concerts.

In this exclusive and long interview we discuss his latest album “Baa Ko Pe,” his reggae band, his association with Amakye Dede and his music brother, Daasebre Dwamena and much more in this detailed, exclusive interview.

Ghana Music.com: Who is Ghana Boy?
Ghana Boy: I played with Amakye Dede’s band ten years ago and came to the states in 1997. I started in Ghana as a drummer. I’m a dancer too so I tutor in Ahenfie Kete. I have improved musically and have been able to form my own reggae band.

Ghana Music.com: There is no way you can go free without telling us the story behind the name Ghana Boy?
Ghana Boy: My dad was called Ghana Boy. He owned the best provision store in the last 1950s in Koforidua. Anytime people looked for me, they said Ghana Boy’s son, Ataa. But my real name is Daniel K. Yeboah and my twin brother is Daniel Kofi Yeboah.

Ghana Music.com: Who are some of your music influences?
Ghana Boy: Daasebre Dwamena and the old school musicians are C. K. Mann, Lumba and Amakye Dede.

Ghana Music.com: Title of the album?
Ghana Boy: It’s simply “Baa Ko Pe”. I have not really decided on the title of the album yet but it will surely draw people’s attention.

Ghana Music.com: Define the album?
Ghana Boy: It’s got a highlife style but am into live music.

Ghana Music.com: How many songs did you put on the album?
Ghana Boy: I have sixteen songs.

Ghana Music.com: Which engineers laid beats for the album?
Ghana Boy: Appietus, Jay Q and Moro.

Ghana Music.com: And which artistes added their voices to the album?
Ghana Boy: Jumpy, Validy and amazingly I included my children on the album known as Akua Ghana, Sam Ghana and Dan Ghanaboy.

Ghana Music.com: What’s the content of the album?
Ghana Boy: Messages, advices and more surprises that you have to buy the album to have a feel of.

Ghana Music.com: You earlier on mentioned that you have a reggae band. Fill us in?
Ghana Boy: It’s called Hydro Reggae Band and it’s a side business. But we mainly rock universities and any time we play we have a huge appearance by people.

Ghana Music.com: What’s it about Ghana Boy and Daasebre Dwamena and Amakye Dede?
Ghana Boy: Daasebre Dwamena is my brother and Amakye Dede is like my senior brother. They have all been instrumental in my music journey and will never forget about them.

Ghana Music.com: Any major shows yet?
Ghana Boy: I have played for a couple of universities and performed at a Kente Show organized by the Ghanaian community here.

Ghana Music.com: Please round up the interview?
Ghana Boy: Ghanaian music lovers should out for Ghana Boy because am coming out big and I won’t disappoint any of them.

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One popular musician who has expressed a high degree of ambition to head the Union in the near future, with intent to find lasting solutions to the myriad of problems is Okyeame Kwame Nsiah Apaw, known in the music industry as ‘Rap Doctor’.

In an exclusive interview with The Saturday Statesman in Accra, he stated, “I   want to become the president of MUSIGA in the near future because the problems in the industry now are not any huge things that can’t be solved”.

According to him, ignorance had been the major bane plaguing MUSIGA and any other society in the industry. He affirmed, “These problems are not anything that can’t be dealt with; the people at the top are just ignorant about how to go about them.”

Heindicated that the main predicament facing the music industry is the copyright system. In ‘Rap Doctor’s estimation, there should be a database management system for all issues relating to copyright. “The most absurd thing about the system is how the royalties are distributed among. Those whose songs are not popular receive almost the same amount as those with popular ones”, he bemoaned..

Okyeame Kwame further pointed out that the main reason why the pirating business had over-shadowed the market was because the producers don’t work hard enough to place the CDs at the disposal of everyone. “They are always at some particular places, like Kantamanto and other distribution points, and for that matter, those who can’t go there will prefer pirated ones from any place close to them.”

Okyeame Kwame described some musicians as lacking focus, adding that “instead of them to focus on their tradition, they always want to copy the western styles”. Again, he said, “they and some event organizers are not creative because they don’t provide any logistics for us to produce our songs; it is always miming throughout”.

Asked what he thought about his other colleagues who sing at rallies of political parties, he replied, “I wouldn’t want to comment about that, but all I will say is that it is a very big shame that none of the governments, both past and present, have been deeply concerned about the welfare of musicians, and yet when it is political season they use us. Even when George Bush visited Ghana, he was accompanied by a musician, but have you seen any of our musicians accompanying some of our Presidents outside the country?”

As the interaction went on, Okyeame disclosed certain things about his personal life to this paper.

Can you tell us about yourself?
I was born in Kumasi on April 17, 1976. I grew up there and also schooled there. We are eleven, five boys and six girls. My Dad was an accountant and my Mum a teacher.

How did you come into the music industry?
It all started in 1992 when I met my friend Okyeame Kofi. We started doing the hip-life thing in SSS , now SHS. We also participated in many rap shows so in 1997, we met a producer of Spiders Web Records called Andrew Opoku Amankwah, who led us to our first album, Nyansa Po from the Okyeame group and we were managed by Mark Okraku Mantey of Slipp Music.

Were you confronted with any challenges?
Not really, but our main problem was money because it didn’t do well at all in the market We were able to sell only 14,000 copies. The only thing we gained from it was exposure.

So how many albums have you come up with so far?
The group Okyeame, thus myself and Okyeame Kofi have come out with four albums namely, Nyansa Po in 1997, Ma San Aba in 1998, Ntoasuo in 2000 and Apamfofro in 2003; then in 2002 I did an album with two of my brothers,  Kwaku Nsiah Boamah as ‘Stone’ and Kwaku Nsiah Amankwah as ‘Kintakunte’, so we named the group as Bradez and the album title was 419-afrifie. Then in 2004 I came out with my own album, Bosheba and the latest that was released a month ago is M’awinsem.

How many awards have you received so far?
A lot which I can’t remember but I can recall that of the Africa Music Awards.

What do you do aside singing?
I’m a 100% musician and I also operate an entertainment house in Kumasi known as One Miller Entertainment, where I organize events, seminars and rent out musical equipment. I’m also a third year student in KNUST.

Can you brief us about your love life?
I knew you were going to ask that question, he humorously said.  Hmmm… it’s been three years now since Nana Ama and I broke up so I wouldn’t want to stress much on that because I’m seriously engaged to another sweet lady who is a final year student in KNUST.

Really? That means you met in that same school?
Yes but she is way ahead of me because she is doing her bachelorship in administration, and we intend to get married soon.

And how soon is that?
No, not yet but it is just around the corner.

Do you have anything else to talk about?
What I will say is, not only am I a musician but I’m also an advocate for higher education. I move from school to school to educate the youth on the importance and impact of education, and currently, I’m planning to embark on a project to empower the musicians in some areas thus; acquiring a loan, social security, investment shares and management. So I’m liaising with SSNIT and other banks to organize seminars and workshops for us. I know it is the work of MUSIGA but since they are not doing it someone has to take it up.

That’s very thoughtful of you; I wish you all the best and thanks very much for your time.
You are always welcome.

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The Saturday Statesman is not trying to take on the unenviable tag of prophet of doom, but the reality is that some top musicians are seriously disenchanted and have therefore decided to quit the association and form their own - that will really have the welfare of any artiste who joins it at heart.

Among them is Gyedu-Blay Ambolley, a musician of international repute, who has clearly stated that he and some other musicians were going to form their own union if the current MUSIGA executives did not change the way and manner in which they operate the association.

In an exclusive interview with The Saturday Statesman, he said he and his disenchanted colleagues were fed up with all the misconduct, discrepancies and underhand dealings of the executives. Again, he accused them of not being transparent in the running of the Union, adding that there were no structures in place to enhance the ability of musicians.

One other misgiving that the ace rap musician expressed was that they (musicians) do not meet to discuss issues and problems pertaining to their profession. “We only meet when there is an urgent need, like when a colleague passes away”, he bemoaned.

Ambolley, who was the Vice President of MUSIGA in the 80s lamented, “I’m very sad to see a building which I, together with some musicians fought so hard to acquire for the union, now turned into a ‘chop bar”".

He disclosed that the place where the musicians used to meet and have workshops, rehearsals and also perform, had been filled with tables, chairs and dining sets where people come to buy food and eat. He was not aware who operates the ’spot’ and where the proceeds from the sale of the food go.

“In Nigeria, when some musicians were facing similar problems they formed their own professional union, and is now the biggest union so far; so there is no big deal in forming ours because it’s going to be the biggest union ever in the history of the music industry”, he noted.

“It is as a result these problems and many others that the young artistes in the industry mess up with their work. They don’t go through any form of workshops and training, things the Union is supposed to be organising. That is why they choose anybody at all who expresses willingness to assist them as their producers and managers”, he emphasized.

Gyedu Blay Ambolley, who is said to have introduced rap music in the industry with ‘Simigwa-do’, further lamented, “The Union is in total sham and I really pity these young ones who are coming into the system because if they are not strong and hard working like me and some few others, they will go hungry.”

As the interaction kept on gathering momentum, he disclosed certain things about his personal life and what he intended to do in future.

Can you tell us who Ambolley really is?
Ambolley was born and raised in Secondi in the Western Region of Ghana, schooled there and started his music career there,

So how did you get into the music industry?
It all began in 1969 when I started playing with a band called the ‘Uhuru Dance Band’ which later became my source of income. So one day the producer, who normally recorded for my leader, heard the song I was playing, so he recorded both and sent it to the studio. Afterwards my song became a hit and eventually it led to my first album.

What was the title?
The title was ‘Simigwa-do’ in 1973, which took Ghana by storm because it came in a different style altogether with quality dancing skills and language. It was through this album that I became the originator of rap in Ghana since majority of the tracks were raps.

Has any of the hip-life artistes so far emulated your rap skills?
I can say no because some of them don’t know music; what they know is to rhyme. When it comes to rap, they can’t touch me, but I can touch them.

What are some of the challenges that you faced?
For challenges, I can’t place my finger on any, but what I will say is I didn’t make enough money out of this album, though it was a hit.

So far how many albums have you come out with?
Twenty-two.

And did you write them on your own?
Yes. I wrote them, arranged them, composed them and performed them on my own.

How would you compare the state of the industry in the past to the present?
In the 70s and 80s, it was in the process of becoming better until Sidiku Buari and his team came in to mess things up till date. Though we saw the benefits we never received them.

Has the industry in any way affected your life?
Though it has its negative side, I will not deny the fact that it has helped me. I can now sing on my own. I’ve also traveled to many places, written more songs, sang and projected them myself.

How many awards have you received?
A lot; but the current one I can remember is the ACRAG Award, one from the United States Congress, another one from the Governor of California - Major and the Hall of Fame at Charles Drew University, Los Angeles.

What do you do aside this career?
I’m a full time musician. I believe in focusing on one thing, doing it well in order to get huge outcomes out of it. I do my works well and so I always receive royalties from America, Europe and other countries.

How are you managing your family?
By His grace I have a son in London who has given me three grandchildren; and I also have two children with my American wife, Esi Malika.

What are you working on now?
At the moment, I’m preparing to come out with an album the title of which I don’t want to disclose. All I can say is Ghanaians should expect something from me either at the end of this year or early next year. I’m also planning to go to the States and bring my studio equipment and everything here so that I can settle down because many hip-life artistes like Tiny, Reggie, Obrafoo, Lord Kenya, Castro and others, are dying to collaborate with me.

What do you do in your leisure hours?
I always use my leisure hours to read books concerning our history and culture because it seems majority of us have left our culture behind. I normally read them in order to acquire more knowledge and to get more involved in our culture.

Anything else you would want to add?
I just want to advise the up-and-coming musicians to study the market well, choose the right producers and managers so that what they have worked hard for will not be in vain.

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