King Promise, Ghana’s Afrobeat sensation, is making a strong case for Artiste of the Year at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), scheduled for May 10, 2025.
The Terminator hitmaker has confidently declared that his win is “non-negotiable”, citing his hard work, consistency, and dominance in the past year.
However, he faces stiff competition from six other nominees, including Stonebwoy, Joe Mettle, Black Sherif, King Paluta, Kweku Smoke, and Team Eternity.
Why King Promise stands out
- Hit songs: His track Terminator was a massive success, earning him multiple awards.
- Awards: At the 2024 TGMAs, he won Best Afropop Song, Best Afropop/Afrobeats Artiste, and Telecel Most Popular Song of the Year, all for Terminator.
- Live performances: He has graced major events, including a grand performance at businessman Richard Nii-Armah Quaye’s 40th birthday celebration.
- Industry support: Music executive Kwasi Ernest has publicly backed King Promise, stating that he “stands tall” among the nominees.
- Net worth: Estimated at $3 million in 2025, making him one of Ghana’s richest musicians.
- Family: King Promise keeps his personal life relatively private, but he has spoken about his deep connection to his Ghanaian roots.
The contenders he must beat
- Stonebwoy: The reigning Artiste of the Year from 2024, known for his Afro-Dancehall dominance.
- King Paluta: His manager argues that he had three major hits (Makoma, Aseda, For the Papping) and deserves more recognition.
- Joe Mettle & Team Eternity: Representing gospel music, they bring a different fan base into the mix.
- Black Sherif & Kweku Smoke: Both have had strong years, with Black Sherif’s international appeal being a major factor.
The debate around his win
King Promise’s Public Relations Officer, Tilly Akua Nipaa, has dismissed claims that he could win out of “pity”, arguing that his record-breaking year speaks for itself. With 10 nominations, up from six last year, and four major hits (Paris, Continental, Sexy, and Favourite Story), she insists that his growing reach and influence make him a deserving contender.
King Promise himself has hit back at critics, stating that he has earned his crown through hard work, hit records, and global dominance. He believes winning Artiste of the Year will not just be about adding a trophy to his shelf but elevating Ghanaian music globally.
With the 2025 TGMA fast approaching, the question remains: Will King Promise finally claim the crown, or will another contender steal the spotlight?
