Philip Osei Bonsu, a communications expert and the host of the biggest afternoon political radio show in Ghana ‘Ekosii sen’ has reviewed the second edition of the Western Music Awards sponsored by Rigworld Training Center (RTC).
Mr. Osei Bonsu who presented the award to the ‘Most Popular Western Region Song’ in a Facebook post wrote (unedited);
* We had a better stage setup with professional lighting. Could still be better in a bigger Hall.
* The Emcees were a delight to watch and listen to. They were much better than what we witnessed last year. One thing is certain though, that on both occasions, the male emcees have dominated and controlled the stage. Daniel Dadzie made a strong statement yesterday. He should be on that stage next year. Sadly, the Region is yet to produce a solid female emcee for such events.
* Best Western Atlantic Hotel is no longer fit for purpose. Their hall can no longer contain this event. The heat in there was unbearable. We urgently need a bigger event venue in the Oil City. Westline Entertainment should probably consider the Akroma Plaza Auditorium for next year.
* Overall we witnessed some solid performances. Of special mention will be Nero X, Kofi Kinata and Bobo Dada Bee. But why did we have so many artistes on the bill? This was not a musical concert for heaven’s sake. Some artistes had no business being on that stage. Let’s watch it.
* The behavior of some of the Artistes and their follow-backs on stage is enough evidence why we should take this campaign against tramadol abuse seriously. I was happy Wutah Kobby mentioned it.
* And who coordinated the artiste performances? Dude did a poor job. It seems there was no predetermined time for each performance. The Artistes decided how long they could be on stage. On a few occasions, the emcees had to step in to stop the performance. And who checked the props artistes brought on stage?
* My highlight of the night was the performance of Nero X. Dude proved why he is the best stage performer from these parts by a mile. He displayed maturity and dexterity on stage. Singing a song each from our fallen Heroes: CK Mann, Papa Yankson and Jewel Ackah was the best thing that happened to the event. No wonder he had a standing ovation from everyone in the auditorium. 5-Star performance it was.
* DJ Switch took the auditorium by storm. She is without doubt one of the best things to happen to the Entertainment industry in Ghana. And she’s a Westerner. Incredible talent.
* Despite being the hero of the night – bagging three majors awards, the most by any Artiste – Ayesem became a villain in the end. A moment of indiscretion on his part almost marred the beauty of an otherwise near perfect event. As his punishment, he should not be made to perform next year. And I’m serious.
* On the whole, I will give the Organizers 70%. It was a sold out event. The Hall was full to capacity. Proof that good marketing, branding and PR can always do the trick. This was a huge improvement over last year’s. They’ve shown clearly that they take feedback serious. Kudos to Nana Kwesi Coomson (Public Relations Officer) and the team. But for Ayesem’s faux pas, I would have given them 90%. They should graciously accept blame for that embarrassing and tactless act from the Artiste.
* Special mention goes to DJ Magnus Da Silva, Nana Kwame for winning their competitive categories back-to-back.
* Kofi Kinata is STILL the biggest Artiste from the Region. Dude is now a crowd puller.
* For those who still have issues with some award winners, DID YOU VOTE?
Author: Philip Osei Bonsu