Ghanaian music duo Lali X Lola have formally appealed to the organizers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards to reinstate the “Group of the Year” category, warning that its removal could harm the growth and sustainability of music groups in the country.
In a letter dated March 17 and addressed to the TGMA Board in Accra, the duo argued that eliminating the category could discourage collaboration and limit diversity in the industry. “Music groups bring a unique dynamic to the industry blending diverse talents, fostering collaboration, and creating memorable cultural moments,” they said. “Their presence enriches Ghana’s music landscape and strengthens its global appeal.”
The artists described the situation as a “chicken-and-egg” problem, noting that while the board may feel there are not enough groups to sustain the category, removing it could further discourage new acts from forming. They stressed that award schemes like the TGMA not only recognize excellence but also shape the direction of the industry.
“Without recognition platforms, group acts may struggle to compete with solo artists, who often have more visibility and support,” the duo warned.
Reacting to the development on Bullet TV’s Vibes Central, Robert Klah, Head of Public Events and Communication, clarified that the category had only been “rested” because the board felt it wasn’t competitive enough this year. He confirmed that the “Group of the Year” award has now been officially reinstated.
“Just for the record, it wasn’t scrapped, it was rested until we felt it was competitive enough and when we felt it was, we brought it back” Klah said.
