Westline Entertainment, organizers of Western Music Awards has paid a glowing tribute to Highlife legend Paapa Yankson who passed away on 21st July, 2017 at his residence in Accra. In the tribute, Westline Entertainment wrote;
Paapa Yankson whose works we admired when we were growing up and still admire was amongst three legends whose name was part of our list to honour at the maiden edition of the Western Music Awards. He is undeniably one of the names that Ghana and Africa celebrate in music. As Westline Entertainment, we are indebted to this legend for the directions he gave us when we told him about the Western Music Awards. Even in his frail state, he was full of wisdom and directions when we always contacted him concerning the awards.
Even though he wanted to be present at the maiden edition of the awards, his ill-health could not permit him to witness the award ceremony he called “glorious.” Paulina Oduro who received the award on his (Paapa Yankson) behalf told the audience that it was his greatest desire to be present but he woke up with a swollen feet that morning which made it impossible for him to travel to Takoradi. “He sends his blessings and profound gratitude to all of you” Paulina Oduro told the patrons of the award when she received the award on his behalf.
What we are most proud of as Westline Entertainment was what Paapa Yankson told Paulina Oduro when she sent the award to him. He profoundly said “Mbrofoma yi atsiw m’enyinim ai” meaning “These children have really honoured me.” As Westline Entertainment, we pride ourselves as the outcome of your excellence and good works. Realizing your talent at the funeral of your neighbour motivates us to appreciate the fact that we are not limited by where and when to discover and be the best of us.
Your death is a heavy blow to Westline Entertainment because you promised to be part of the performers for the next edition of the awards. Your replacement would be difficult and impossible, we dare say! We may be too human to ask questions now but we console ourselves in the fact that you are at a better place and God needs you in Heaven more than we need you here on earth. We are confident that you are at a place where there is no swollen feet and ill-health and you are singing your harmonious tunes to praise and worship God.
Westline Entertainment celebrate you Paapa Yankson, your memories live on.
Public Relations Officer for Westline Entertainment, Nana Kwesi Coomson