The 2019 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA) remains a poignant moment in Ghanaian music history, marred by controversy and an unresolved climax. George Quaye, a prominent media figure and former Public Relations Officer for Charterhouse, the organizers of the VGMA, recently provided insights into the events of that night, particularly the decision to withhold the announcement of the Artiste of the Year award. The coveted title was fiercely contested between two of Ghana’s musical giants, Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy, a rivalry that unfortunately escalated into a physical altercation on stage, overshadowing the entire ceremony.
Quaye, who was intimately involved in the production of the awards show, described the meticulous preparations and high expectations surrounding the performances of both Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy. He lamented the unfortunate turn of events, emphasizing the lost opportunity to witness what could have been exceptional performances and a truly memorable night. The anticipation and excitement generated by the intense competition between the two artists were palpable, setting the stage for a potentially historic evening. However, the brewing tension between the two camps finally erupted, transforming a celebration of musical achievement into a chaotic scene.
The altercation, triggered by Stonebwoy brandishing a gun onstage after Shatta Wale and his entourage approached the stage during Stonebwoy’s acceptance speech for another award, sent shockwaves through the audience and brought the ceremony to an abrupt halt. Security personnel swiftly intervened, escorting both artists and their respective entourages out of the venue. The incident not only disrupted the flow of the event but also cast a dark cloud over the entire VGMA. The organizers, faced with a volatile situation, were forced to make a difficult decision regarding the Artiste of the Year award, the pinnacle of the night.
Quaye revealed that the decision to withhold the announcement of the Artiste of the Year was a strategic one, primarily driven by concerns for public safety. Given the heightened tensions between the fan bases of Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy, both of whom were present in significant numbers at the venue, the organizers feared that announcing a winner, especially in the immediate aftermath of the altercation, could have further inflamed the situation and potentially led to more violence. While acknowledging the disappointment this decision caused, Quaye emphasized that the safety and well-being of the attendees, artists, and crew were paramount.
The decision to withhold the award was not made lightly. Quaye explained that had the competition been between any other artists, the announcement would have proceeded as planned. However, the unique circumstances of the rivalry between Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy, coupled with the highly charged atmosphere in the venue, necessitated a different approach. The potential for further escalation and the risk to public safety outweighed the desire to conclude the ceremony with the traditional crowning of the Artiste of the Year.
The 2019 VGMA, therefore, serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between celebrating artistic achievement and managing the complexities of interpersonal relationships, particularly within a competitive environment. The incident involving Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy not only deprived the audience of a potentially historic musical moment but also exposed the underlying tensions that can exist within the music industry. The decision to withhold the Artiste of the Year award, while controversial, ultimately prioritized public safety over the desire for a definitive conclusion to the ceremony. The events of that night continue to resonate within the Ghanaian music scene, prompting reflection on the importance of fostering a positive and respectful environment for all artists and fans alike.
