EchoHouse: We believe in local talent, no foreign act at Tidal Rave

For the past 11 years, Tidal Rave has been one of Ghana's biggest beach parties, delivering loads of fun and an unforgettable experience.

Initially held at Kokrobite Beach, the event moved to La Palm Beach, Accra, two years ago, and has consistently featured some of the biggest names in the Ghanaian music industry, creating memorable moments for partygoers.

From Ghana’s top rapper Sarkodie, King Promise, Stonebwoy and stage king Samini to Black Sherif and emerging acts such as Maya Blu, Kasar Music and Lola X Lala, Tidal Rave has showcased a wide range of talent since its inception, and this year promises to be no different.

Unlike many events that rely on international acts as headliners, Tidal Rave has never brought in foreign performers for this role but has consistently featured homegrown stars. 

According to EchoHouse, organisers of the beach party, the decision was rooted in their belief in promoting local talent.

In their view, there is no need to bring in foreign artistes when the country's music industry already has influential performers who can play the lead role at the event, and organisers can use their platform to spotlight and elevate local talent. 

Speaking to the Daily Graphic in an exclusive chat, Events Director of Echo Live, Ms Awo Somuah, said: “Tidal Rave is uncompromisingly committed to showcasing Ghana's music scene and we believe that exclusively featuring our own artistes here on our stage will go a long way to show our unwavering confidence in the exceptional talent and artistry thriving within our industry.

“By prioritising indigenous performers, we're not only celebrating Ghana's rich cultural heritage but also providing a vital platform for emerging artistes to shine. Our stage serves as a launchpad for newfound talent, empowering them to gain widespread recognition and kickstart their careers.”

 “Our commitment to local talent is rooted in a passion for discovering and nurturing fresh talent. Ultimately, through Tidal Rave, we're aiming at cultivating a movement that celebrates Ghanaian creativity, inspires collaboration and propels our music industry forward to foster a self-sustaining music ecosystem where local artistes can thrive and contribute to the nation's cultural identity,” she added.

Touching on the potential impact of not featuring foreign acts at Tidal Rave stage, Ms Awo Somuah confidently asserted that attendance has remained unaffected.

 “In fact, Ghanaians have consistently shown up in droves to support local talent, defying expectations. It's been refreshing to see Ghanaians embracing their own. The support has been overwhelming and we've never received feedback suggesting that patrons stayed away due to the lack of international acts,” she stated.

This year’s beach festival is set to take place on October 12 at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, Accra. 

Dubbed Catch The Sun, the event promises to deliver a variety of new and exciting experiences that will go beyond the music, creating an immersive all-day beach festival for patrons.

Known for its creative mix of music, fashion, art and culture, this year’s festival will continue the tradition by offering a wide range of experiences tailored to the interests of its diverse audience. 

Patrons known as Ravers can expect unique activities that celebrate music, dance, fashion, entrepreneurship and more, transforming the beach into an energetic playground for creativity and fun.

For music lovers, the festival’s Surfside Stage will be a highlight. 

Offering uninterrupted, back-to-back sets from some of Ghana’s finest DJs, the stage promises to keep Ravers on their feet all day with a thrilling mix of beats and vibes. 

For those who crave the thrill of dance, the Surf and Surf Dance Studio where Ravers can participate in recreating trendy TikTok dances, will be a must-visit.

Fashion enthusiasts are also in for a treat. Attendees will get the chance to show off their beach-ready outfits, with the atmosphere offering the perfect backdrop for striking photos and fashion-forward expressions.

Additionally, there will be live performances by a diverse lineup of talented artistes with Ghanaian rapper and breakout star Black Sherif headlining this year’s party.

The organisers, EchoHouse, have secured a three-year partnership with Johnnie Walker, a renowned name in the Scotch whiskey world and part of Guinness Ghana’s portfolio, to add an extra touch of luxury and excitement.

Ignition Market

Beyond its reputation as one of the biggest beach parties, Tidal Rave is expanding its scope to foster entrepreneurship and community growth. 

According to Ms Awo Somuah, this year's event would double as a platform for emerging business owners to showcase their innovative products and services.

Dubbed the Ignition Market, Tidal Rave's partnership with ABSA Bank will offer vendor stands to carefully selected entrepreneurs to offer ‘up-and-coming’ business owners to engage directly with the public to showcase their products, connect with potential customers, gain exposure and visibility and network with fellow entrepreneurs.