Gospel singer Patience Nyarko has dismissed the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA), calling the scheme deceptive and unreliable.
Speaking on Power 97.9 FM, the acclaimed musician claimed she was unfairly denied an award during last Saturday’s event.
Her hit track “Obi nnyane me,” nominated for Gospel Song of the Year, unexpectedly lost to Joe Mettle’s “Boo noni” at the 19th edition of the awards. She also missed out on the Gospel Artiste of the Year title.
Joe Mettle himself admitted in an interview with Agyeman on Monday that although “Boo noni” was successful, Patience Nyarko’s song enjoyed greater popularity during the year under review.
In her interview with Agyeman Prempeh (Agyengo) on Power Drive, Patience insisted she was unfairly treated.
“I was clearly robbed. I think TV3’s Mentor programme is far more credible than the VGMA,” she said, adding that her career does not rely on awards.
She explained that gospel music is not driven by awards, though awards can serve as motivation. She stressed that she is tired of the hypocrisy in the industry and will not remain silent.
Patience added that Atinka TV’s “Di Asa” reality show is more credible than the VGMA. She said she remained quiet in previous years because she believed she was improving and hoped her hit song “Obi nnyane me” would earn recognition.
When asked whether she still wished to participate in the VGMA after criticizing the scheme, she responded, “I will speak my mind, and if Charterhouse decides not to nominate me again because of that, it is fine.”
The “W’afom Kwan” singer revealed that her upcoming album is titled “Wasisi me” (I’ve been cheated), though she did not clarify whether the title refers to her grievances with Charterhouse.
However, music producer Fred Kyei Mensah, who was on the panel, disagreed with her comments.
“We should not speak out of emotion. Ebony’s father said the VGMA is one of the most prestigious award schemes, yet Patience claims it lacks credibility. You should not burn bridges. I know she is hurting, but she should tone down. What if Joe Mettle has a performance and is asked to work with her? We must be cautious,” he advised.
