The 2025 TGMA is looming and while many anticipate the return of ‘Dancehall King’ Shatta Wale, his participation remains uncertain.
This follows a recent statement from his manager, Sammy Flex, who, while expressing his desire for Shatta Wale to attend, acknowledged the final decision lies with the artiste himself.
“It’s my wish, not Shatta’s,” Flex told Onua FM’s Onua Showbiz host, Nana Kwame Gyan.
“We have a boss, and we can’t force things to happen. If he’s not ready, I can’t force him,” Flex added.
Flex’s comment highlight the ongoing tension surrounding Shatta Wale’s relationship with the TGMA organizers, Charterhouse. The artiste’s absence from the 2019 awards, following a public altercation with fellow artiste Stonebwoy, led to a ban for both artistes.
While the ban was lifted in 2021, a sense of lingering animosity seems to persist.
Despite this, Flex believes Shatta Wale has achieved a level of success that transcends competition. “He’s reached the God level of music, and most young musicians look up to him as an inspiration,” he stated.
“My appeal is for him to go and support the younger artistes, because any artiste who wins will surely mention his name.”
Flex’s call for unity echoes the desire for a more collaborative and supportive environment within the Ghanaian music industry. However, the final decision on Shatta Wale’s attendance rests with the artist himself.
“He’s already achieved a lot, and doesn’t need to compete with anyone,” Flex added. “If he decides he’s not going, then it’s fine.”
Whether Shatta Wale chooses to attend the TGMA this year remains to be seen. His decision will likely have significant implications for the event’s overall atmosphere and the future of the relationship between the artiste and the awards organizers.
Story by Vanessa Eshun
