The Chief Executive Officer of Charterhouse, organisers of the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA), Theresa Ayoade, has disclosed that it has not been easy holding the event for 20 years but she’s glad it’s finally come to stay.
Speaking at the official launch of VGMA 2019, which came off on Friday, March 15 at the Labadi Beach Hotel, Theresa Ayoade said, “From using a wooden plaque as awards to the many criticisms we have had in the past years, thanks to individuals in the creative arts industry who have solidly been behind this award.
“20 years is no joke and the awards has attracted a rich cultural mix of Ghanaians, Nigerians, South Africa and other people from other parts of the world who share similar cultural values,” she stated.
Personalities like former editor of the Graphic Showbiz, Nanabanyin Dadson; former Presidents of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), Alhaji Sidiku Buari and Diana Hopeson, Arts writers, PaJohn Bentsifi Dadson and Francis Doku; Starr FM’s Drive host, Kofi Okyere Darko; music producer, Kiki Banson among others, were brought on stage to help cut the 20th anniversary cake.
The event, which was also used to announce nominees for this year’s show, witnessed performances from artistes including Okyeame Kwame, who was also the host, TiC, Kuami Eugene, KiDi, Kwaku Gyasi and the Afro Harmony Band.
It was a well attended party by players in the entertainment industry and notable among them were Shatta Wale, Efia Odo, Lydia Forson, Gifty Adorye, Mzbel, Appietus, Kwesi Arthur, MUSIGA President, Bice Osei Kuffuor popularly known as Obour, Ceccy Twum, GHAMRO Chairman, Rex Omar, Amadzeba and many others.
The event calendar for VGMA 2019 starts on April 6 with a Nominees Jam at the Kumasi Mall, continues on May 16 with the VGMA Industry Awards Night in Accra before the main awards on Saturday May 18.
The venue for the main awards has not yet been communicated by Charterhouse.