The Ghanaian music scene recently witnessed a surge of controversy after a video featuring two prominent radio personalities, DJ Magnus Da Silva of Connect 97.1 FM and DJ Magic George of Empire FM, surfaced online. The video captured the duo seemingly mocking the loss of fellow Takoradi native and renowned musician, Kofi Kinaata, at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA). Kinaata had been nominated for the Music Video of the Year award for an unspecified work but lost to dancehall artist Stonebwoy’s “Jejereje.” The DJs’ reaction, viewed by many as disrespectful and unprofessional, sparked widespread condemnation and ignited a debate about the role and responsibilities of media figures in the entertainment industry.
The video’s content exhibited a jovial atmosphere between the two DJs, but their laughter and comments were interpreted by many as derisive towards Kinaata’s loss. DJ Magic George, in particular, was seen mimicking Kinaata’s signature phrase, “Ntsemtsem,” from his popular song “Auntie Ama.” This seemingly playful imitation, however, was perceived by many Kinaata fans as a deliberate attempt to belittle the artist in light of his award defeat. This specific act served as the primary catalyst for the ensuing outrage on social media, with fans expressing their disappointment and anger towards the DJs’ conduct.
The incident quickly escalated into a widespread discussion about professional ethics within the media landscape. Many argued that DJ Magnus and DJ Magic George, being recognized voices in the Ghanaian music industry, hold a responsibility to conduct themselves with a certain level of decorum and respect, particularly when discussing their colleagues and peers. Their actions were deemed by critics as a breach of this responsibility, fostering a negative and potentially damaging environment within the industry. The expectation placed on media personalities to uphold a high standard of professionalism, regardless of personal opinions or preferences, became a focal point of the conversation.
The backlash against the DJs reveals a deeper underlying tension surrounding the perceived power dynamics within the entertainment industry. While artists often rely on media platforms for exposure and promotion, incidents like this highlight the potential for misuse of this platform and the vulnerability of artists to public scrutiny and ridicule. The incident underscores the need for mutual respect and professionalism between artists and media personalities to cultivate a healthy and supportive ecosystem. Fans rallied behind Kinaata, demonstrating the strong bond between artists and their followers, and expressing their desire for a more respectful and considerate media landscape.
The controversy surrounding this video also reignites the ongoing debate about the role of humor and satire in public discourse. While humor can be a powerful tool for entertainment and social commentary, its application requires sensitivity and awareness. The line between playful banter and outright mockery can often be blurred, and the DJs’ actions, while perhaps intended as lighthearted jest, were ultimately perceived as crossing this line. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of contextual awareness and responsible use of humor, especially when dealing with sensitive topics such as an artist’s public loss or achievement.
The fallout from this incident extends beyond the immediate parties involved, prompting broader reflection on the conduct and responsibilities of media figures in shaping public perception and influencing the overall discourse within the entertainment industry. The incident serves as a case study highlighting the potential consequences of unprofessional behavior and the importance of maintaining ethical standards, particularly in the digital age where content spreads rapidly and can have a significant impact on an individual’s reputation and career. The incident emphasizes the ongoing need for media professionals to engage in self-reflection and uphold their responsibility to foster a respectful and supportive environment within the industries they cover.
