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Emelia Asiedu took a risk and sent an email to Shirley Frimpong-Manso to land ENO role

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One of the fresh faces in the Ghanaian film and TV industry, Emelia Asiedu has always been passionate about acting. “By age 6, my cousins and I would perform full shows and our parents would actually sit and watch them.”
A theatre major from University Iowa, Emelia has performed Off-Broadway and has co-founded a theatre company, Accra Theatre Workshop, in Ghana.
Emelia has also featured in a few onscreen projects but none on the scale of ENO, the just-launched Ghanaian Showmax Original series where she plays Tessa, a teacher and the obedient oldest daughter of Abena Baafi (Gloria Osei-Sarfo).
“In many ways this does feel like my debut. To be honest, I am really just excited to be a part of this team because the story is strong, the acting is strong, and the production value is high,” Emelia says.
Tessa, like her two sisters Safowaa (Esi Hammond) and Kendall (Mariam Owusu-Poku), must marry rich, according to their mother Abena, who is relentless in making her dream for her daughters come true.
Talking about how she landed her role on ENO, Emelia reveals that it all started by taking a risk and sending an email to director Shirley Frimpong-Manso. Read more about that and more about Emelia’s role on ENO in the interview below.
How did you land your role as Tessa?
I asked a friend for Shirley Frimpong-Manso’s email address and sent her an introductory email with my portfolio. I knew I was taking a risk because most directors don’t respond to cold calls. But to my very pleasant surprise, she replied with an invitation to audition. In October 2021, I was offered the role of lawyer Grace in the telenovela Dede, another Shirley Frimpong-Manso production. Three months later, I got the call to play Tessa.
Talking of Shirley, how has the experience been to be directed by an award-winning and experienced filmmaker like her?
Shirley is a master at what she does. At our first meeting, her biggest request was that we come in as actors and we revel in our craft. That level of freedom is rare. It was inspiring to watch her be fully invested and aim for the highest standards. It pushed us to bring out our best.
What was your preparation process for this role?
As part of our actors’ kit, I got a story treatment, character breakdown and some of the scripts before production began. I prepared for this role by studying all the material and using my imagination to fill in the world of Tessa and the Baafi family. Our costume fitting was also extremely helpful because Tessa has a very specific way of dressing and that gives valuable insight into a character.
Once I had a sense of who Tessa was, I slept with the script, ate with the script, until I could jog and recite the script without thinking about the lines rolling off my tongue. It’s only when the lines felt like an extension of myself that I could do my job as an actor. That is, playing with all the potential ways of delivering the scene.
How did your background in theatre help in embodying this role?
There are many ways in which my theatre training prepared me for the role of Tessa Baafi. For example, in theatre, there are entire courses on movement and physicality, how a person moves through the world. So beyond learning lines and background, whenever I was on set, even the way I walked was informed by my character.
Theatre or screen, where are you most comfortable?
I started in theatre, so it feels like home. But I have always wanted to work on screen and I am excited about the doors that starring in ENO may have opened for me.
What did you enjoy most about playing Tessa?
There are two sides to Tessa, just like many of us have different sides that we show to the world, the side that your parents see, the side that your partner sees and the side that the guy stamping your US visa sees. Because of Tessa’s particular situation, those two parts are markedly different from each other. What I love about playing Tessa is that I get to play these two very different sides of her.
Any lessons you’ve learnt working with Gloria Osei-Sarfo seeing as she’s been in the industry for a while?
Gloria is the most caring person. It’s fitting that she was playing our mother because she was really like a mother to us on set. For someone who has been in the industry for so long, she made it so easy to work with her and approach her at all times. She would sit with us to run lines and discuss character with us. I remember on the day I wrapped, she still had a number of scenes left to shoot, but she came looking for me to give me a big hug and wish me her best.
ENO is the first-ever Showmax Original in Ghana, how does it feel to be part of this project?
It is such a gift to be a part of this. The Showmax platform offers massive exposure for Ghana’s entertainment industry. And it will hopefully bring more attention and opportunities to the amazing talent we have here. That goes not just for the performers, but the crew because the team on this project was solid. I hope audiences are as excited for the final product as we were, making it.
Catch Emelia Asiedu as Tessa Baafi on ENO on Showmax, with new episodes every Thursday.
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Giggs Partners With Lojay For ‘Hallelujah’ Music Video

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Giggs Partners With Lojay For 'Hallelujah'

UK rapper, Giggs has released the official music video for his new song, ‘Hallelujah’, in partnership with acclaimed Nigerian singer-songwriter, Lojay. The Earthboi-directed video artfully combines high-definition clips and vintage-style film, capturing snapshots of ordinary people taking part in activities like skating, biking, and dancing. A tribute to the late MohBad, a fast-emerging Nigerian star, is also included in the form of a mural.

The video presents a rhythmic contrast as Giggs cruises through the city in a convertible, accompanied by a distinguished elder, while Lojay performs the catchy chorus back in Lagos, Nigeria. The track, crafted by Puffybeatz, is part of Giggs’ latest album, ‘Zero Tolerance‘.

 

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UK rapper, Giggs aka Godfather has recently unveiled the much-anticipated official music video for his latest track, ‘Hallelujah’. This new song sees him collaborating with the highly acclaimed Nigerian singer-songwriter, Lojay, adding an international flair to the mix. The music video, directed by the talented Earthboi, is a masterful blend of modern high-definition cinematography and a nostalgic vintage-style film aesthetic. It features a variety of candid snapshots of everyday people engaging in a myriad of activities, such as skating, biking, and dancing, painting a vivid picture of community and shared joy.

Interestingly, the music video also includes a heartfelt tribute to the late MohBad, who was a fast-rising star in the Nigerian music scene, in the form of a beautifully painted mural.

The video further presents a striking rhythmic contrast. On one hand, we see Giggs cruising through the city streets in a stylish convertible, sharing his journey with a distinguished elder, displaying a sense of respect for the wisdom of the older generation. On the other hand, we are transported to Lagos, Nigeria, where Lojay delivers the catchy chorus of the song, showcasing his unique musical style and the pulsating energy of the city.

The track itself, impeccably produced by Puffybeatz, is a standout piece from Giggs’ most recent album, ‘Zero Tolerance’. This collaboration with Lojay not only highlights Giggs’ versatility as an artist but also his ability to bridge cultures through music.

WATCH – Giggs feat. @lojaymusic – Hallelujah (Official Video)

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Fready drops video for ‘Awala’ (REY MYSTERIOUS)

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Fready drops video for 'Awala' (REY MYSTERIOUS)

Fready, who hails from Takoradi, Ghana, and has an Nzema background, integrates elements of his upbringing into his music, including the use of local lingo like “Awala.”

This term, popular in the Western side of Ghana, specifically Takoradi, adds a unique regional flavor to this song. In his latest track, Fready draws inspiration from the festive “Ankos” celebrations that occur during Christmas in Ghana.

These celebrations involve wearing masks and vibrant clothing while dancing through the city streets. Fready cleverly incorporates a reference to the iconic wrestler Rey Mysterio, blending traditional festival imagery with contemporary pop culture influences.

The result is a catchy and danceable Amapiano song that pays homage to Fready’s cultural roots and personal experiences.

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From Dansoman to the World: Kush Keef lights up the Afro-Dancehall scene

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Kush Keef

From the vibrant hood of Dansoman, Accra, emerges a fresh voice lighting up the Afro-Dancehall scene: Roland Osei Adofo, lovingly known as Kush Keef. His journey from selling mobile phones from the lively corners of Circle to making global moves is a heart-warming tale of passion, perseverance and a deep love for music.

Kush Keef’s love for music began when a friend introduced him to the magic of FruityLoops. Instead of letting his environment define him, he used it as a canvas for his creativity. Influenced by Ghanaian music legends like Samini, Jupitar and Mugueez, Kush Keef has crafted his sound that effortlessly blends Dancehall and Afrobeats.

In 2020, Kush Keef made waves on the international music scene with his debut production collaboration alongside US-based artist, Dre Skuffs and Trinidad-based female artist, Servanity. Encouraged by the warm reception, Kush Keef set up his home studio and, with the help of his FruityLoops mentor, Dream Jay, he crafted his debut EP, “THE BEAST.” This seven-track gem showcases Kush Keef’s exceptional talent in songwriting and storytelling, which he believes is paving the way for his rise to stardom.

The release of the music videos for ‘Sijibomi’ and ‘My Baby’ from the EP captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, garnering impressive views on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram, catapulting Kush Keef onto the Afro-Dancehall scene.
Recently signed by the US-based music record label, Rovl Entertainment, Kush Keef is excited to share his banging beats, relatable lyrics and unique style with music lovers around the world.

With the upcoming release of his anticipated debut EP, “THE BEAST,” Kush Keef is ready to thrill audiences with his authentic sound, heartfelt storytelling and undeniable talent.
For Kush Keef, music transcends passion; it is a way to bring people together, spread positivity and inspire others. With dreams of connecting with a wider audience, performing at major music festivals and collaborating with renowned artists in the industry, Kush Keef envisions creating a lasting legacy through his music.

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David Oscar adds “Hold On” to His Records on His Birthday

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David Oscar Drops Mesmerizing Visuals for "I am God" on Christmas Day

Ghanaian reggae artiste David Oscar Dogbe has released a brand-new song dubbed, “Hold On,” today April 16th, which also happens to be his Birthday.

This highly anticipated project was created with renowned international producer Stefan Harth, promising a blend of David Oscar’s signature sound with fresh production elements.

“Hold On is more than just a song; it’s a message of hope and perseverance aimed straight at the hearts of the youth. The lyrics were put together for anyone who’s ever faced challenges or dreamt of achieving big things. All you have to do is to hang on a bit longer and don’t give up. Keep working on your dream and it will surely yield fruits,” David shared the reason behind the song with this reporter.

Produced with the help of the talented Stefan Harth, “Hold On” hints at a fusion of genres, creating a soundscape that’s both familiar and invigorating.

This partnership between David Oscar and Harth is a cause for excitement.

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David Oscar, is known for his socially conscious lyrics. Stefan Harth, on the other hand, brings a wealth of experience working with international artists, creating music that transcends borders.

With “Hold On,” fans can expect a song that’s both soothing and meaningful.

David Oscar’s message of encouragement, coupled with Harth’s production magic, has the potential to create an anthem for the youth, urging them to Hold On onto their dreams and keep pushing forward.

Drums were played by Max Buettner, Additional trumpet was played by Kristian Karrasco and bass was commanded by Ghanaian bass player Godfred Swanzy.

If you haven’t heard it yet, get ready for an unforgettable listening experience as you check out and enjoy “Hold On” by David Oscar Dogbe via video below.

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K.Ytee Drops “Life” As He Rebrands

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K.Ytee Drops "Life" As He Rebrands
Budding Hip-hop Act Emmanuel Gyimah, formerly known as Ferrari Boy releases his first single of the year featuring Joey Blaq.
Dubbed “Life”, talks about life struggles and his personal experience as young artist in Ghana.
K.Ytee, born Emmanuel Gyimah, is a vibrant and talented musician hailing from Spintex a.k.a the Bank city in Ghana . Born in April 2002, K.Ytee’s journey into the music world came at an early age. Drawing inspiration from some of the greats like Sarkodie, J.Cole , Kendrick Lamar & Dave.

Growing up, K.Ytee was exposed to a diverse range of musical genres that permeated the Local sense. His unique style puts him on top of the list for up and coming acts who could go on to become greats. Within his music you’ll hear the experience he’s outlived whether it’s rap songs, love songs , drill songs he’s got something for everybody in his discography.

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Geewah shares visuals for new Afrobeats stunner ‘Juice’ featuring Bakilla

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Geewah shares visuals for new Afrobeats stunner ‘Juice’ featuring Bakilla

Geewah and Bakilla pique our interest with a heavenly Afrobeats record guaranteed to make your heart tick. The new song titled ‘Juice,’ drops alongside an equally edgy music video.

Afrobeats keeps getting better and songs like ‘Juice’ reiterate its timelessness. The song’s familiar yet invigorating tone captivates listeners from the first note, drawing them into a spellbinding world where the two artists reign supreme. Geewah’s Dancehall cadence and Bakilla’s honeyed melodies complement FeezeBeatz’s delightful production and there’s plenty to love beyond mere style.

They serenade with beautiful lyrics: “Smooth skin, sweet melanin, only you match my energy/You be my remedy, give me sweet melody. Put you on a pedestal, baby you a ten,” Geewah sings, adding more emotional depth to the song. Putting all that into perspective is a scenic video in sync with the song’s vibe. From vibrant indoor settings to cruising around town and chilling and at the beach, Great Elephant Records makes every moment count.

Don’t miss out on the full experience. Watch the entire video and let Geewah and Bakilla take you on a rhythmic journey.

 

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