Embracing the Importance of Ghana Music Awards: A Call to Industry Stakeholders and Artists

The Ghana Music Awards or VGMAs; as it has been referred to in recent times due to sponsorship reasons, has been the longest standing music awards scheme in the West African country of Ghana. In its past 25 editions, the awards night celebrated as arguably the biggest night in Ghanaian music has seen several changes in its plaque and location, but has remained committed to celebrating “outstanding contributions of Ghanaian musicians to the growth and expansion of its associated industry.” Despite all these positive contributions, the award scheme as the brainchild of local event organizer Charter House has always come under fire for one reason or the other. This then begs the question, are these excessively harsh criticisms from various industry stakeholders legitimate? Let’s discuss.

In the wide and rapidly changing landscape of the music industry, where global recognition often steals the spotlight, it’s imperative to remember the significance of local music awards schemes like the GMAs. It is quite understandable how the onslaught of the “Afrobeats to the world” narrative has created an obsession with international awards schemes like the GRAMMYs, BET and so on, but doesn’t negate the fact that local awards schemes like the GMAs are created to honor and celebrate talent within specific regions or communities by playing a vital role in nurturing local music scenes, fostering talent development, and preserving cultural identity. Let’s take a look at why music industry stakeholders and artists alike in Ghana especially should wholeheartedly support and hold in high esteem the Ghana music awards.

Celebrating Diversity and Identity

The Ghana Music Awards does well to showcase the rich variants of musical diversity present within the Ghanaian cultural setting. This has been evident in awarding categories that highlight music genres from traditional folk tunes to cutting-edge urban beats, by amplifying the unique sounds and cultural expressions that define the Ghanaian identity. By honoring artists who embody these cultural nuances, the GMAs helps preserve and promote musical heritage. This also evident in the subtle things like creative assets used in marketing as well as the plaque designs over the years.

Nurturing Emerging Talent

For aspiring musicians, the GMAs has serves as a cosign and launchpad for their careers. Winning or even being nominated for such awards can provide invaluable exposure, credibility, and networking opportunities. Moreover, the recognition and support received through these platforms can empower artists to further hone their craft and pursue their musical ambitions with renewed vigor. Typical examples are Sarkodie winning both “New Artist” and “Artiste of the Year” categories at the 2010 edition to spawn an incredible career and Stonebwoy going on to win the BET “Best African Act” award after winning the “Artiste of the Year” award at the GMAs.

Building Stronger Communities

Music has a remarkable ability to bring people together, and the GMAs plays a significant role in fostering community spirit with events like industry mixers, workshops and nominees jams held in various regions across the country. These events provide a platform for music lovers, industry professionals, and artists to come together, celebrate shared passions, and forge meaningful connections. By strengthening the bonds within local music ecosystems like Ghana, the GMAs contributes to the overall vitality and resilience of the community.

Elevating Local Music Industry

Supporting the Ghana Music Awards is not just about recognizing individual artists; it’s also about bolstering the entire local music ecosystem. From venues and promoters to recording studios and music schools, these events generate buzz and economic activity that benefits the broader industry. By investing in local talent and infrastructure, stakeholders can help cultivate a thriving music scene that attracts attention and investment from outside the industry and country.

Inspiring Pride and Ownership

When Ghanaian artists receive recognition from the GMAs, it instills a sense of pride and ownership in their achievements. This acknowledgment from their peers and community can be incredibly motivating and validating, encouraging artists to continue pushing boundaries and pursuing excellence in their craft. Furthermore, it reinforces the idea that success in the music industry is not solely measured by international acclaim but also by the impact one has within their own community.

In short, local music awards schemes like the Ghana Music Awards are not just ceremonies; they are essential pillars of support for artists and catalysts for the growth of local music ecosystems. By embracing and championing these awards, industry stakeholders and artists demonstrate their commitment to celebrating diversity, nurturing talent, building community, and fostering pride in local musical heritage. There is a need for us to recognize the invaluable role that local music awards play in shaping the cultural landscape and ensure that they continue to thrive for generations to come.