Connect with us

People & Lifestyle

Icons contestants escape eviction, Gena West argues with Stephanie Benson

The contesting groups in ‘Icons: Divas edition’ had some good news last weekend when the judges decided not to evict any of the groups. The two groups with the least amount of votes, Chilli and R&M seemed shocked and relieved when the judges gave them the good news – but of course we all anticipated […]

Published

on

RM1The contesting groups in ‘Icons: Divas edition’ had some good news last weekend when the judges decided not to evict any of the groups. The two groups with the least amount of votes, Chilli and R&M seemed shocked and relieved when the judges gave them the good news – but of course we all anticipated that move. Didn’t we?

According to the judges, it was too early to eliminate any of the groups based on the performances from the previous week, which was the first public performance for the groups.  Therefore, they were all given a second chance with last weekend’s performances.  The theme for the weekend was an all-Ghana affair – with songs from Ghana and all the groups, judges and host clad in traditional attire. It was the Icons extension of the Independence Day celebrations.  So which groups deserved to be free from eviction based on the weekend’s performances?

Eboni started the show with their rendition of Nana Fynn’s ‘Menkoa’. It was interesting to see that song being performed by a group and Eboni’s doo-wop on it was pretty unique.  The lead vocalist was too strong for me and I felt there could be more involvement from the other girl apart from just the doo-wops.  Judges Stephanie Benson and Gena West didn’t seem to agree on Eboni’s performance as they went into an argument in the full glare of the public. Stephanie was cool with their performance and called the group the dark horse of the competition. Gena said the group sang out of tune when she was giving her comments on their performance. Stephanie came back to say that they didn’t sing out of tune and that perhaps Gena wasn’t listening, while Gena insisted the girls were out of tune. Divas! Divas! Divas!

Breeze then performed Sydney’s hit song, ‘Africa Money’. They opened the song with a nice mellow introduction and sped it up afterwards.  It was an interesting spin on the song but there was too much screaming and I realised that the girls were out of breath in no time. The judges seemed to like the performance though.

Diamonds took on Felix Owusu’s ‘Waben’. They had the right attitude to carry the song through and the harmonies were on point.  Each of the girls carried their part well and it wasn’t surprising that Stephanie referred to them as the ‘perfect group’.  She said they looked like a group but they needed to work on their dramatisation a bit more!

Chilli, looking hot and sexy went for Kojo Antwi’s smash hit ‘Amirika’ and certainly brought in the diva! They owned the song and had the right attitude to carry the dynamics of the song.  Judge Quantos thought that the girls concentrated a bit too much on looking sexy and not on perfecting their vocals – and I agree with him!

Advertisement

R&M couldn’t go wrong in the ‘good looks’ department when they took on Jay Ghartey’s ‘My Lady’ with their spin-off, ‘My Baby’.  They had a good melody to their version and although it was a little too slow, they showed great attitude on stage with it. Jay Ghartey, who was in the audience, commented that the vocals were on point. But Quantos humorously remarked that Jay was being too generous. Quantos commented that the group holds so much promise but something was missing in their performance. His fellow judges were in agreement, and it seems that for the second week in a row, R&M failed to impress the judges wholly.

Kolors took on Wutah’s ‘Kutosa’ and came out shining. They owned the song and had a good harmony to it perhaps because the song originally was performed by a group; it made it a bit easier for them to flow with it. Stephanie called them her ‘three African Nubian queens’.

Kyses also took on Kwabena Kwabena’s first major hit, ‘Aso’ and ran away with it. They made the song their own, looked good together as a group and had the right attitude on stage – although, they were a bit loud for me. Stephanie blew them kisses, Qauntos said their performance was wonderful and good, and Gena said they chose the right song.

Keshi 3 wrapped up the performances with Osibisa’s classic, ‘Welcome home’. Although they had the right attitude for the song, the melodies were fluctuating here and there and so I didn’t like it fully.

On the whole, the performances on the night were appreciably good. While some groups found it easy to choose a leader for their performances, some were playing it safe and sharing the vocals all round. Since, the groups are being judged based on their performance as a unit and not individually, perhaps it is best for the groups to know their strengths and put their best foot forward always instead showing off their individuality.  There will be no second chances this weekend as one of the eight groups would be kicked out of the competition. To vote for your favourite group, text their names to 1737 on all networks.

Advertisement
Advertisement

People & Lifestyle

Ghana Welcomes Starlink: Revolutionizing Connectivity

Published

on

GMK1DQHWsAAIZyK

The National Communications Authority (NCA) in Ghana has recently approved the satellite broadband application of Starlink, a service by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, making Ghana the eighth African country to welcome this revolutionary internet service.

This development is set to challenge existing internet providers in the region, offering multi-gigabit speeds and lower latency through satellite technology.

Users have expressed satisfaction with Starlink’s service, citing significant improvements in speed and reliability compared to traditional providers. The service is currently available in seven African countries: Mozambique, Eswatini, Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigeria.

Advertisement

This expansion is expected to foster healthy competition and better offers, breaking the monopoly enjoyed by some internet providers. As Starlink continues to expand, it promises to revolutionize network access and connectivity in Africa, providing a much-needed boost to internet access across the continent.

Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

#AOTY2023: King Promise vs. Stonebwoy

Published

on

stonebwoy king promise and kelvynbwoy

The debate over King Promise’s candidacy for Artist of the Year has sparked a lively discussion among social media users, with arguments both for and against his potential win.

Supporters highlight his sold-out shows in Asia and the impact of his music, while critics point to other artists like Stonebwoy and Black Sherif, questioning the fairness of the awards process.

The discussion showcases the diverse opinions and passion surrounding the music industry in Ghana and beyond, with users engaging in playful banter and humorous remarks while presenting their arguments.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

‘Dubai in Accra’ set to thrill Ghanaians on Sunday, April 28

Published

on

IMG 20240427 WA0002

In the heart of Accra, excitement buzzes as the city eagerly anticipates the grand spectacle known as “Dubai in Accra,” set to take place this Sunday 28th April 2024 at the prestigious Stanbic Heights, Icon House Airport. (more…)

Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s Reign

Published

on

Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's Reign

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign as the Asantehene, the King of the Ashanti Kingdom.

The celebrations, which began with spectacular fireworks witnessed by Otumfuo himself, will culminate in the Silver Jubilee anniversary on Akwasidaekese on June 12 at Dwabrem, Manhyia Palace.

Advertisement

This milestone is a testament to Otumfuo’s impactful leadership, dedication to the Asante people, and contributions to education and research as the Chancellor of KNUST.

The event is being celebrated across Ghana, with well-wishes and congratulations pouring in from various quarters, highlighting the significance of this occasion for Asanteman and Ghana as a whole.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

Mr. Beast in Ghana: Surprising Visit Sparks Excitement

Published

on

Mr. Beast

World-renowned YouTuber Mr. Beast, known for his philanthropic acts, has been spotted in Ghana, specifically in Accra and Tema, sparking excitement among locals.

His visit has led to discussions about his choice of Ghana over other African countries, with some suggesting that the country’s popularity as a tourist destination played a role.

Mr. Beast’s presence in Ghana is part of his global outreach, as he recently gifted a Ghanaian $25,000 as part of his X (Twitter) giveaway.

Read Also: Producers of 'Beast of No Nation' return to filming in Ghana, causing upset in parliament

The YouTuber has been seen exploring the country and interacting with locals, with many expressing their desire to meet him and participate in his charitable endeavors.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan in MP race for Ayawaso West Wuogon

Published

on

Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan

Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is set to enter the political fray by rubbing shoulders with notable personalities in the upcoming general elections.

The former Juventus midfielder is believed to be lacing his boots to face the likes of John Dumelo and the incumbent member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency Lydia Alhassan.

While Dumelo and Alhassan represents the NDC and NPP respectively, Appiah is expected feature in the elections as an independent candidate.

This was revealed by the Spokesperson of the Ayew family Fiifi Tackie via X on Friday afternoon.

“Stephen Appiah to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency as an independent Parliamentary candidate,” he wrote.

Advertisement

If Stephen Appiah affirms the reported news, he will be following in the footsteps of other renowned figures in Ghana football who have indulged in politics recently.

Earlier this year, all-time top scorer of the Black Stars Asamoah Gyan was appointed as the sub-committee chair of Youth and Sports in the campaign committee of Dr Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party.

In acceptance of the appointment, Gyan emphasised the need to share hos ideas garnered through experience in the game.

Anas took $100,000 to stop documentary release – Kwesi Nyantakyi
‘I have enough experience to contribute to sports – Asamoah Gyan reacts to political appointment
“I always ask myself, how do we create change if we don’t want to change? How do we spectate without being on the bench, and how do we score without being on the field?… All I know and will ever know, all I love and will ever love is SPORTS.” he stated.

Another figure in Ghana football who recently announced his intention to engage in partisan politics is Kwesi Nyantakyi, former Ghana Football Association (GFA).

Advertisement

The former football administrator showed up as one of the candidates to contest in the NPP primaries for the Ejisu constituency following the demise of incumbent John Kumah.

However, it didn’t pan out well for the former Wa All Stars owner as he lost disappointingly.

He garnered a paltry 35 votes after close to 1,081 delegates had cast their votes in the parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held in the Ejisu Constituency on April 13.

Continue Reading

Trending