WHAT was expected to be a night of glitz, glamour and celebration of Ghanaian music turned sour for many patrons at the 26th edition of Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), as the event was marred by significant delays and excessive drags that stretched it into the early hours of the following morning.
Held at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) on Saturday, May 10, 2025, the event kicked off with a Red Carpet session around 8:00 pm.
However, what followed was a marathon of long speeches, drawn-out presentations, and extended stage activities that left most patrons exhausted and frustrated. The show finally came to a close around 4:00 am the next day.
Many in attendance were visibly displeased, with several walking out of the auditorium even before the grand announcement of the Artiste of the Year.
Speaking to Graphic Showbiz, some patrons didn’t hold back their disappointment.
Music enthusiast Linda Homedizie and an ardent BHIM fan said: “I came with high expectations, hoping for a memorable night, but it just became exhausting. My friends and I have sat through so many avoidable delays. I am so drained and I can’t stay any longer.”
Esi Yankson, a university student and entertainment blogger, added, “This isn’t the first time we’re experiencing this, but this year is just unbearable. The pacing was off. Even the performances felt dragged out. I think the organisers need to be more intentional about time management if they want to maintain public interest.”
Kofi Agyemang, who travelled from Kumasi to attend the show, also expressed his disappointment.
“This is supposed to be Ghana’s biggest music night. But how can we celebrate our stars when we’re too tired to even clap by the time they win? The organisers must really work on the time. The talent is there, the production is improving, but the timing ruins it all.”
The sentiment was echoed across social media platforms, where disappointed viewers voiced their displeasure. Popular sports journalist Gary Al-Smith, who attended the event for the first time, took to Facebook to express his frustration.(Read: We delayed red carpet proceedings to accommodate arrival of some important guests - Robert Klah)
“My first time attending the Ghana Music Awards. And I did, to support King Promise's Artiste of the Year efforts. However, the length of the awards night is a reason why I don't look forward to returning next year. 8 p.m. to 4 a.m.? In 2025? How? Why? Unacceptable. Let’s do better.”
While the event featured dazzling performances and high-quality production, critics argue that Charterhouse, the organisers, must prioritise efficiency in future editions.
Despite the criticism, many still acknowledged the event's artistic value and its role in promoting Ghanaian music.
However, they emphasised that those strengths should not come at the expense of the audience's experience. ( Read: I couldn’t wait to be Artiste of the Year –King Promise)
Moving forward, stakeholders are calling for better rehearsals, tighter scripting, and a streamlined format to ensure a smoother flow.
Reducing excessive speeches and optimising award presentations could not only enhance the live experience but also boost viewership and international credibility.
