TGMA Highlife Song category not well defined – Naa Agyeman calls for clarity
GHANAIAN Highlife musician Naa Agyeman has expressed concerns over what he describes as inconsistencies in the definition and selection criteria for the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) Highlife Song of the Year category.
He sees the current framework as flawed, allowing artistes from other genres to win the award, which he believes dilutes the true essence of Highlife.
In a sitdown chat with Graphic Showbiz on Monday, March 24, 2025, Naa Agyeman referred to 2019 when Reggae/Dancehall artiste Shatta Wale sparked heated debates when he won the Highlife Song of the Year with his song, My Level.
Naa Agyeman argued that the criteria for the Highlife Song of the Year category, as outlined by the Academy and Board, was too broad.
Currently, any artiste regardless of their primary genre can win the award as long as their song meets the popularity and excitement benchmarks. He believes this loophole undermines the significance of Highlife as a distinct genre.
Citing inconsistencies in the awards scheme, he pointed out that only Gospel musicians are considered for Best Gospel Song of the Year, yet the same principle is not applied to Highlife.
“If Gospel acts are solely considered for the Gospel category, why should it be different for Highlife? Highlife boasts unique characteristics that set it apart too, so it must be treated with the same level of respect and distinction as any other music style.
"It's only fair that Highlife music, a genre deeply rooted in Ghana's cultural heritage, receive the same level of respect and recognition as others. We must establish clear criteria for what constitutes Highlife music and ensure only artistes who genuinely embody the genre's spirit and sound are recognised and celebrated.
“This is not about exclusion, but about preserving the authenticity and cultural significance of Highlife music. By doing so, we can promote a deeper appreciation and understanding of this beloved genre while also ensuring its unique contributions to Ghana's musical heritage are preserved for generations to come,” he stated.
Naa Agyeman also urged the TGMA Board to critically examine the songs that qualify for the Highlife Song of the Year category.
He explained that Highlife is rooted in specific elements such as distinctive instrumentation, rhythm and lyrical structure, which should not be compromised.
"What we are seeing now is a lot of Afrobeats songs being submitted as Highlife, which is a problem. If we don’t set clear boundaries, we risk losing the genre’s legacy and its true essence.
He called on industry stakeholders to collaborate to protect Highlife’s authenticity, ensuring the music style does not get overshadowed or misrepresented by loosely defined categorisations.
“It's time for us to give Highlife music the respect, recognition and celebration it deserves. Let us work together to preserve its integrity, promote its cultural significance and ensure its continued relevance in Ghana's vibrant music landscape,” he stated.
Naa Agyeman is currently promoting his latest single, Pay Your Tax, which encourages Ghanaians to fulfil their civic duty by paying taxes to support national development.
He told Graphic Showbiz he was committed to using his music as entertainment and a tool for social change.
