For years, he was the subject of light-hearted mockery on social media, consistently nominated but never securing the top prize. However, at the 26th edition of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), Gregory Bortey Newman, popularly known as King Promise, finally silenced his critics and claimed the coveted title.
After enduring the challenges of being a near-winner in Ghanaian music, the smooth-voiced artist triumphed as the Artiste of the Year, marking a significant moment of recognition not just for himself but for the essence of Ghanaian music on the international stage.
King Promise’s ascent to this towering achievement is a testament to resilience—an artist who navigated the tides of criticism and setbacks to become one of the country’s most celebrated musical figures.
At TGMA26, he not only won the Artiste of the Year award but also took home three additional honors, including Best Album/EP of the Year, Best Afrobeats/Afropop Artiste of the Year, and Best Afropop Song for his global hit “Paris.” This victory encapsulated a decade-long journey characterized by unwavering dedication and genuine artistry, culminating in his acclaimed album, “True To Self.”
Hailing from Nungua, Accra, King Promise burst onto the Ghanaian music scene with an innovative sound and magnetic presence. His debut single, “Oh Yeah,” released in 2017, quickly garnered attention, thanks to its infectious rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, positioning him among Ghana’s promising musical talents.
His first album, “As Promised,” released in 2019, featured collaborations with notable artists like Wizkid, Kojo Antwi, and Sarkodie. Tracks such as “Bra,” “Commando,” “My Lady,” “Tokyo,” and “CCTV” showcased his prowess and firmly established him as more than just a fleeting artist.
The Celebrity Struggles
However, fame often comes with its hurdles. With rising popularity also came pressure and sometimes harsh criticism. Despite consistently releasing hits and being a frontrunner each year, the ultimate accolade at the Ghana Music Awards seemed to slip through his fingers.
Social media trolls seized on this trend, turning his nominations into fodder for jokes. “Another year, another King Promise snub” became a familiar quip. On platforms like Twitter, he was branded an example of talent overlooked, not due to a lack of ability, but for reasons unfathomable to many fans. Critiques labeling him as a one-hit wonder painted a skewed image of his extensive catalog.
The mockery wasn’t confined to awards; even his fashion choices were not spared scrutiny, including remarks about his oversized Balenciaga shoes, which became a meme symbolizing his awards drought. These comments ranged from questioning his talent to mocking his aspirations, showing that the trolling crossed into personal territory.
In 2018, social media influencer Ama Burland defended King Promise against the jibes, saying his talent was real, and these trolls often overlooked the hard work artists put in.
Fast forward seven years, and Burland’s response to King Promise’s Artiste of the Year win was filled with joy and validation: “Congratulations! You’ve always been him!”
Though the trolling was challenging, King Promise chose not to let it define him. Instead of directly confronting the negativity, he poured his energy into creating music that could speak louder than any post online. His strategy was to rise above the noise, proving his worth through his artistry.
A Turnaround Year
The year 2024 marked a pivotal moment. King Promise released an array of captivating music, including “Terminator,” a genre-blending hit that gained global traction. The song, characterized by its fusion of Afrobeats, Amapiano, and dancehall, sparked a viral dance challenge that captured the attention of fans and influencers alike.
Other singles, like “Perfect Combi,” “Keep It Sexy,” and “Paris,” further revealed his artistic growth, showcasing a polished sound that balanced mainstream appeal with substantive depth. Beyond the music, King Promise expanded his international presence, selling out shows across Europe, Asia, and North America, earning accolades for his electrifying performances.
No longer just a local sensation, the artist from Nungua had evolved into a global representative for Ghanaian music, leading a new wave of artists making their mark on the world stage.
Critics who once overlooked him began to take notice, while devoted fans felt vindicated. The narrative was transforming: King Promise was no longer just promising. He was delivering, and the world was paying attention.
The Night of Recognition
On May 10th, 2025, at TGMA26, the moment finally arrived for King Promise. When the Artiste of the Year category was announced, the Grand Arena erupted with excitement as his name echoed through the hall. Cheers filled the air, and social media lit up with celebrations.
Alongside the prestigious Artiste of the Year award, he claimed three additional accolades that underscored his versatility and prominence in the music industry. Standing on stage, he radiated humility, expressing heartfelt gratitude to his team, family, fans, and even his critics. “This means more than words can describe,” he shared emotionally. “Thank you for believing in me when many didn’t.”
His acceptance speech was marked by appreciation rather than bitterness, reflecting on his journey from seven nominations with no wins to this significant moment. “While some laughed, I just worked harder, as I trust in God’s timing,” he concluded. “Today, I am THE CHOSEN ONE!”
Indisputably, he is chosen. His story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the belief that true kings need not boast — they show up consistently and let their work speak volumes.
The King’s Bright Future
While securing the Artiste of the Year title represents a peak in King Promise’s career, this is clearly just the beginning. He has hinted at upcoming projects, promising fans more singles, tours, and undoubtedly, more hits.
