TGMA: It’s no longer as competitive as it used to be – Charterhouse PRO explains the absence of Group of the Year category for over two year

Robert Klah, the Public Relations Officer for Charterhouse, organizers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) has shed light on the absence of the Best Group of the Year category from the esteemed award scheme’s nomination list in recent years.

Robert explained that the category’s omission stems from a lack of competitiveness, prompting the board to withhold its inclusion until it observes a resurgence in strong contenders.

In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, the PRO noted that since 2021, submissions for nomination in this category have consistently failed to meet the required standards. He emphasized the board’s commitment to maintaining a high level of competition within the awards scheme.

“Yes, we didn’t add Group of the Year to the nominations list because the Board has realised that it’s no longer as competitive as it used to be, so it was decided to let it rest until they become competitive again.

“If an artiste or group is not on the list, it simply means they did not meet the criteria if they filed for nomination in the year under review,” he stated.

Robert Klah urged the different groups to submit applications for more than only the Group of the Year award because, based on their achievements in the year under consideration, they are also eligible for other competitive categories,” he explained. 

He  further urged various music groups to broaden their submissions beyond the Group of the Year award, highlighting that their achievements may make them eligible for other competitive categories. He cited the example of FRA, a group nominated in the Best Highlife Artiste of the Year category, illustrating the potential for recognition in alternative segments.

While assuring groups of their continued eligibility for participation, Klah reiterated that the eventual reintroduction of the Group of the Year category hinges on the emergence of ample competitive groups in the future. 

“The groups are still eligible to participate in the awards scheme so they can be nominated in any of the song or artistry categories. FRA is a group but they have been nominated in the Best Highlife Artiste of the Year category. If we have enough competitive groups in the future, the category will be brought back into the scheme,” he added

It will be recalled that The Best Group of the Year award was last won in 2021 by Bethel Revival Choir after beating competitors including R2Bees, La Meme Gang, and DopeNation.

When Bethel Revival Choir won the Group of the Year in 2020, they broke the unbreakable curse of a gospel group taking home the trophy for the first time.

Since 2021, even though groups like La Meme Gang, R2Bees, and DopeNation keep putting out music and performing live, it’s obvious that they have not impressed the Board of TGMA enough to earn a nomination for the Group of the Year category.

This strategic approach underscores the TGMA’s dedication to fostering excellence and ensuring that recognition is earned through merit.