By On May 10, 2025, the Ghanaian music scene erupted in celebration as the 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) announced Stonebwoy as the winner of the Best Reggae/Dancehall Song for his spiritually charged track, Psalm 23.
The announcement, shared via the official @GHMusicAwards X account, sparked a wave of reactions from fans and industry players alike, cementing Stonebwoy’s enduring influence in Ghana’s vibrant music landscape. As one of the most coveted awards in the country, the TGMA continues to be a beacon of recognition for artistic excellence, and this year’s event was no exception.
Stonebwoy, born Livingstone Etse Satekla, has long been a household name in Ghana and beyond, blending reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats with a signature flair that resonates with audiences worldwide. His win for Psalm 23, a track from his 2024 album Up & Runnin6, underscores his ability to craft music that speaks to both the soul and the streets.
The song, as described by TrendyBeatz, is a “masterpiece soundtrack” that exemplifies Stonebwoy’s knack for delivering dancehall anthems with depth. Drawing inspiration from the biblical Psalm 23, the track weaves themes of faith, resilience, and divine protection—messages that have struck a chord with fans navigating life’s challenges.
The 26th TGMA, organized under the auspices of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, has evolved into a festival of music and entertainment since its inception in 1999. According to the official TGMA website, the event engages not just Ghana but also a global audience, with millions tuning in to witness live performances and award ceremonies.
This year’s event, held close to World Music Day on June 21, also featured the TGMA Music Summit, a platform for industry stakeholders to discuss the future of Ghanaian music. Stonebwoy’s win was a highlight of the night, with the artist also delivering a electrifying performance that left attendees in awe.
X user @kwadwosheldon captured the moment, tweeting, “What a performance!! Livingstone!! Wow!” alongside a photo of Stonebwoy commanding the stage with fiery visuals in the background.
The reaction on social media was a mix of jubilation and debate. Fans like @BaggiloT and @AzizRemedyGh celebrated the win, with the latter noting that it was “well deserved.” @BraveArnoldBoat echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the spiritual significance of Psalm 23 with the hashtag #BHIM, a nod to Stonebwoy’s BHIM Nation fanbase.
However, not everyone was pleased. @GOVERNOR715 challenged the decision, claiming the awards were “rigged” and that another artist, Molly, deserved the honor. The user shared an image of the Up & Runnin6 album artwork, perhaps as a subtle jab at the selection process. Such debates are not uncommon in award shows, where fan loyalty often fuels passionate discussions about fairness and merit.
Stonebwoy’s contribution to Ghana’s reggae and dancehall scene cannot be overstated. As highlighted by a 2020 Kuulpeeps article, dancehall in Ghana has roots in Jamaica’s late 1970s music culture, evolving from a sparse version of reggae into a dominant genre. Ghanaian artists like Stonebwoy have taken this foundation and infused it with local flavors, creating a sound that’s both globally appealing and distinctly African.
Stonebwoy’s catalog, including hits like Psalm 23, showcases his vocal prowess and ability to produce tracks that resonate across generations. His 2024 album Up & Runnin6 has been praised for its consistency, with TrendyBeatz noting that “all records presented in the project are absolutely on point.”
The TGMA win adds another feather to Stonebwoy’s cap, following years of accolades that include multiple TGMA awards and international recognition. His performance at the 26th TGMA, described by @GHMusicAwards as a “party” that set the stage ablaze, reaffirmed his status as “The Torcher,” a nickname that reflects his ability to ignite crowds with his energy.
Fans on X, including @djsliming, were left in awe, with comments like “Ei !! Stonebwoy 😳” capturing the collective amazement at his stage presence.
Beyond the music, Stonebwoy’s win highlights the growing influence of reggae and dancehall in Ghana’s music industry. The genre, once a niche, has become a mainstream force, thanks to artists who blend traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds.
Stonebwoy’s Psalm 23 is a testament to this evolution, offering a message of hope that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. For fans, the song is more than just a track—it’s a spiritual anthem that mirrors their own journeys.
As the 26th TGMA wraps up, Stonebwoy’s victory serves as a reminder of the power of music to inspire and unite. While debates about the award’s fairness may linger, the impact of Psalm 23 on listeners is undeniable.
For those who haven’t yet experienced the track, it’s available for download on platforms like TrendyBeatz, where fans can immerse themselves in Stonebwoy’s latest masterpiece. As Ghana’s music scene continues to thrive, artists like Stonebwoy are paving the way for future generations, proving that talent, faith, and hard work can lead to greatness.
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