Barely two weeks after sweeping five awards at the 27th Telecel Ghana Music Awards, newly minted Artiste of the Year, Black Sherif, rolled into the premises of Telecel Ghana’s headquarters, amid an arousing welcome, for a courtesy call on the headline sponsor.
Together with his management team at the Road Boys Association (RBA), Black Sherif met with senior executives of the telecommunications operator and the awards organisers, Charterhouse, to exchange pleasantries and discuss possible year-long partnerships during his reign.
Mrs. Theresa Oparebea Ayoade, CEO of Charterhouse, along with the Head of Events and Communications, Robert Klah, set the tone for the courtesy visit, describing the partnership with Telecel Ghana as central to the awards’ evolution over the last 15 years.
“Telecel has been a true partner of the awards scheme. The music industry is grateful for its immense support. What Telecel has done for the music industry is no mean feat and we must all cherish their support,” Mrs. Ayoade said.
Turning to Black Sherif, she added, “It was a very competitive year, but you stood tall. Your win is a culmination of the local, national and global impact you have. Blacko, you are an ambassador for TGMA, the partnership with Telecel, and Ghana’s music industry.”
Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai, the chief executive of Telecel Ghana, framed Black Sherif’s win in personal terms, noting that he is the only artiste to have won Artiste of the Year twice during her leadership tenure.
“Congratulations Blacko, you are the only artiste who has returned to our office as Artiste of the Year twice in my seven-year period as CEO. You are infectious and you touch the lives of millions of people with your music. You see how young people react to your music because of how they connect with you? Hold on to that power and stay humble and accessible, irrespective of the fame.”
Black Sherif said the love and reaction from the Telecel Ghana team remained difficult to absorb. “Each time and every day, I see these emotional reactions and love from prominent people, and it’s always surprising to me. When I experience these amazing reactions, it does something to me. I’m still processing it,” Black Sherif said. Thanks to Telecel and TGMA for platforming our music and arts to help put respect on our craft; we value that. I feel and appreciate the love you have for me beyond winning the awards. My best music is yet to come.”
