The Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) has sparked debate with its latest nominations, particularly in the “Best Urban/Contemporary Gospel Song Of The Year” category which is novel. Many are questioning the omission of Joseph Matthew’s hit song “Fear No Evil,” which has ganered impressive numbers and chalked impressive feet in the year of review.

The category according to TGMA is defined, “Best Urban/Contemporary Gospel Song Of The Year” category is designed to recognize songs that blend gospel with elements of R&B, hip-hop, and other pop genres, generating significant public excitement and patronage”. By this definition, “Fear No Evil” seems like a no-brainer for nomination.

“Joseph Matthew’s “Fear No Evil” has not only resonated with audiences but has also achieved impressive numbers, outperforming some nominated songs like, “Call” and “Onwanwani”. The song’s presence on major TV stations in Ghana and Nigeria, as well as its extensive radio airplay across regions, underscores its impact and popularity.

This omission adds to the longstanding concerns about the TGMA’s nomination process, with many accusing the organization of favoritism and neglecting deserving artists. The introduction of new categories like “Best Urban/Contemporary Gospel Song Of The Year” presents an opportunity for the TGMA to showcase a broader range of talent, but it seems like a missed opportunity in this case.

In the meantime, fans can check out Joseph Matthew’s new song, “Love In You” from below.

Cofy Dela, manager of Ghanaian musician King Paluta, has asserted that his artiste is the clear frontrunner for the Artiste of the Year (AOTY) award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs), citing groundbreaking hits and industry influence throughout 2024.

Dela’s remarks come ahead of the awards ceremony scheduled for May 10 at the Accra International Conference Centre.

In an interview, Dela emphasized King Paluta’s consistency, chart-topping releases, and robust fan engagement as key factors distinguishing him from other nominees, including King Promise, Stonebwoy, and Black Sherif. “His presence and impact this past year have been dominant across the board,” Dela stated, adding that no contender in the category matched Paluta’s reach.

Dela also reflected on his decision to manage the artiste, attributing it to Paluta’s “unique vision, drive, and commitment to his craft.” He described the rapper as a model of perseverance, whose dedication inspired him to help unlock his full potential.

When asked about navigating the industry, Dela acknowledged challenges but highlighted adaptability and continuous learning as crucial to his positive experience. To stay informed on trends and public sentiment, he regularly monitors music blogs, news platforms, and social media. He advised artists to prioritize a consistent visual identity, a distinctive artistic voice, and a strong digital presence to thrive in the competitive landscape.

The AOTY category remains one of the most anticipated at the TGMAs, reflecting not only commercial success but also cultural resonance. Dela’s advocacy underscores the heightened stakes in an industry where consistency and innovation increasingly define an artiste’s legacy.