Stonebwoy, upon being crowned 'Artiste of the Year' at the 25th edition of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs), delivered a poignant victory speech, expressing sentiments that had long dwelled within him.
Here are five noteworthy points from his address:
1. Dedication to his mother:
Stonebwoy attributed his success to his late mother, referring to her as his 'lucky charm' whose blessings have accompanied him on his journey.
He expressed gratitude to her for the abundant blessings he has received and admitted being overwhelmed by emotions, unable to articulate fully his feelings.
“Thanks to the most high God and my mother wherever you are resting in peace, thank you for showering your blessings upon your son. I wrote a very long speech but I am short for words,” he stated.
2. Firm belief in winning three times:
Contrary to popular belief, Stonebwoy asserted that he had won the 'Artiste of the Year' award not twice but three times, including in 2019.
He called upon Charterhouse to rectify the development and rightfully acknowledge his victory in the 2019 edition, citing his consistency and hard work over the years.
“I have been very consistent and I have been working very hard throughout the years. Ever since I won the Ghana Music Awards in 2015, I won it again in 2019, but we all see what happened. So I just want to plead with Charterhouse that as honourable as they are, they should make sure that they announce the winner which I am confident that it was me,” he retorted.
Stonebwoy’s remarks come five years after the infamous onstage altercation with Shatta Wale during the 2019 VGMAs, resulting in both artistes being stripped of their awards and issued indefinite bans.
It can be recalled that at the event, Stonebwoy claimed the titles for 'Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year' and 'Best Collaboration of the Year,' while Shatta Wale secured 'Highlife Song of the Year' for 'My Level' and 'Reggae/Dancehall Song of the Year' for 'Gringo.'
Following the incident, Charterhouse refrained from announcing a winner for the 'Artiste of the Year' category, maintaining the late Ebony Reigns, the previous year's recipient, as the reigning 'Artiste of the Year.'
3. Addressing unwarranted criticism:
Stonebwoy addressed the unwarranted hate he has since encountered as he ascended in his career, attributing it to envy and spite from detractors.
He acknowledged that with increased success comes increased scrutiny and negativity but remained undeterred by such challenges.
“We all saw it in the news. A lot of things were going on in the news because of how hard I work. No matter what you do, the higher you go, the more your haters,” he avered.
4. Recognition of his fanbase and team:
Acknowledging the pivotal role of his fanbase, BHIM Nation, Stonebwoy expressed gratitude to them for their unwavering support.
He extended his thanks to everyone from Ashaiman to the global stage, emphasizing the unity and strength of BHIM Nation.
Additionally, he expressed appreciation for his team members, recognizing their dedication and contribution to his success.
“I couldn’t have done it without BHIM Nation. Thank you to everyone, from Ashaiman, Volta region to the world. BHIM Nation to the world. To all my team members I say thank you,” he established.
5.He hailed his wife:
Stonebwoy paid tribute to his wife, acknowledging her as his pillar of strength, confidante, and everything in between. He expressed his gratitude and invoked blessings upon her for her unwavering support.
In his victory speech, Stonebwoy not only celebrated his triumph but also highlighted the importance of family, fans, and perseverance in the face of challenges.
“I want to acknowledge my wife (draws her close into his arms). She is my friend, my companion, and everything. God bless you.”
EB