The recent adjustments made to the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) have stirred up debates within the music industry, especially with the addition of a new category focusing on urban and contemporary gospel music.
The newly introduced Urban/Contemporary Song of the Year category has been met with enthusiasm from artists within the urban gospel community. However, not everyone is in favor of this decision.
Personalities such as Caleb Nii Boye, Roland Amartey (speaking on Sammy Flex TV), and Ezekiel Tetteh have expressed their disapproval, suggesting that the focus should have been on separating the Reggae/Dancehall Song category to give each genre its own spotlight.
Nevertheless, the curator of Urban Gospel Rave, Joseph Smart Amenuveve Kwodwo, known as JSmart, believes that the arguments against the new gospel category are unfounded.
He emphasized the progress and impact of Urban Gospel artists in Ghana over the past year, citing examples of artists like Kobby Psalms, H. Hardy, Scott Evans, Raf Able, Quabena Asare, and Team Eternity, who have been producing meaningful music.
JSmart also highlighted the investments made by Urban Gospel artists in their craft, pointing out the quality of their music and visuals.
He compared the dedication of Urban Gospel artists to that of Dancehall artists, noting the artists’ international travels for recording and shooting music videos.
Additionally, JSmart praised the prominence of Urban Gospel artists on major event platforms, emphasizing their ability to headline events and perform on significant stages.
