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The 27th Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA 2026) is officially in motion—nominations are open until February 8, 2026, and the big night hits on May 9, 2026. While full nominees are still weeks away, the conversation around Artiste of the Year is already electric. This is Ghana’s most prestigious award, recognizing overall impact: hits, streams, tours, cultural influence, consistency, and global reach from 2025 releases.
2025 was stacked Black Sherif dropped a game-changing album, veterans stayed dominant, and new voices pushed boundaries. Here’s KAK MEDIA’s top 5 contenders for Artiste of the Year at the 27th TGMA, ranked by current momentum, buzz, and potential to sweep. These are early predictions things can shift post-nominations.
1. Black Sherif (The Clear Frontrunner)
Blacko had the year in 2025. His sophomore album Iron Boy (released April 2025) broke streaming records for Ghanaian projects, topped charts, and earned global acclaim (Spotify Global Impact nods). Hits like “Sacrifice” (collab with AyZed) and features dominated playlists, while his raw storytelling and versatility resonated deeply.
Music exec Bullgod boldly predicted on Hitz FM that Black Sherif will “sweep everything” at TGMA 2026 even joking he could win Gospel or Female Vocalist too. Fans agree: his export power, youth influence, and consistent output make him the one to beat. If he submits strong, Artiste of the Year feels like his to lose.
2. Wendy Shay (The Bold Challenger)
Wendy Shay isn’t waiting for predictions she’s claiming the crown. In late 2025 interviews, she vowed “2026 TGMA Artiste of the Year is mine,” backing it with an outstanding year of releases, views (27M+ on key tracks), and versatility across genres. Pundits like MC Portfolio have shouted her out for deserving recognition beyond streaming numbers—her energy, consistency, and fanbase make her a serious threat.
If the TGMA board values impact over pure numbers, Wendy could shock the field and become the first female to take AOTY in years.
If the TGMA board values impact over pure numbers, Wendy could shock the field and become the first female to take AOTY in years.
3. King Promise (The Reigning Champion)
As the defending Artiste of the Year from the 26th TGMA (2025), King Promise delivered continental-level vibes smooth Afrobeats/Afropop anthems, massive collabs, and a strong showing in year-end lists. His live performances (including high-profile sets) and crossover appeal keep him in elite conversations. Fans and some industry voices argue he’s had the most balanced, impactful year without controversy.
He’s a safe, respected pick especially if voters reward longevity and global polish over raw hype. Can he repeat?
He’s a safe, respected pick especially if voters reward longevity and global polish over raw hype. Can he repeat?
4. Medikal (The Fan-Favorite Hustler)
Medikal’s 2025 was all about resilience and output dropping his highly anticipated Disturbation II album (18 tracks with big features like Shatta Wale), fire singles/remixes like “DND” feat. Sarkodie, “Shoulder” feat. Shatta Wale & Beeztrap KOTM, and “Welcome to Africa,” plus consistent buzz from AMG Business. His lyrical prowess, street credibility, and fan campaigns pushing for recognition keep him in the mix.
He’s overdue for top honors if voter turnout favors the streets and hip-hop dominance, Medikal could edge his way to the win.
He’s overdue for top honors if voter turnout favors the streets and hip-hop dominance, Medikal could edge his way to the win.
5. Stonebwoy (The Unmatched Legacy Holder)
Stonebwoy remains a powerhouse even after not taking AOTY in 2025—his 2025 output (including bass-heavy tracks from The Torcher EP and elements leading into Toucher vibes) delivered authority in reggae/dancehall. He extended his record with a 10th Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year win at the 26th TGMA, cementing his status as one of Ghana’s most awarded artists this decade (70+ awards overall). BHIM Nation loyalty, international tours, and cultural advocacy add massive weight.
A three-peat isn’t on the table, but his consistency and influence make him impossible to overlook—voters love rewarding longevity.
A three-peat isn’t on the table, but his consistency and influence make him impossible to overlook—voters love rewarding longevity.
Honorable Mentions: Quamina MP (strong debut year with Love In The Club), Gyakie (global push with After Midnight), AratheJay (solid debut buzz), and King Paluta (meteoric street rise).
Artiste of the Year often goes to the artist who defined the year culturally not just streams. Black Sherif leads the pack right now, but Wendy Shay’s confidence, King Promise’s polish, Medikal’s hustle, and Stonebwoy’s legacy could flip the script.
source: kaknews.com
