Entertainment of Friday, 27 December 2002

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Jailed Musician, Gemann Turns To God

Popular musician and dancer, Gemann, jailed for murder is asking for forgiveness from the family of his victim. Born, Nana Agyeman, Gemann shot and killed a taxi driver following an argument over fares. Currently a condemned prisoner serving his sentence at the Nsawam medium security prisons, Gemann has taken to the gospel, preaching the word even better than some ordained priests.

Once a Michael Jackson look-alike working on stages in Europe, Gemann rose to fame with the release of his hit song - this is highlife, calypso dance, sunshine music lets get together …

After more than half a decade in prison, Gemann is convinced that his lifestyle prior to incarceration was all wrong, and says he regrets leading people into that kind of business.

Speaking on a police educational programme on national television, Gemann who is putting his talent to use in prison by writing gospel songs asked the family of his victim for forgiveness. I will like to take this opportunity to apologise to the whole nation, to the family of the deceased, widow and children. I want to say that what happened was purely accidental and not intentional because I did not know the man, and I had nothing against him. I am very sorry, Gemann said.

Together with his group - the new life singers, made up of his colleague prisoners, Gemann has put together some melodious songs with thought provoking lyrics, a far departure from his calypso days.

He says, prison life has thought him and many prisoners a lot, appealing for possible clemency. Gemann said he and his colleagues in prison have seen the light and will lead different lifestyles when they come out. He thanked the prison officers for helping them to lead worthy lives and wished all Ghanaians a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.