Gospel singer Piesie Esther has reopened debate over the outcome of the 2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA), alleging that comments made by entertainment executive George Quaye influenced her defeat in the Artiste of the Year category.
Speaking on Prime Time on Joy Prime, Piesie Esther expressed lingering disappointment over losing the top prize at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.
âVGMA 2023 was mine,â she stated firmly during the interview.
Historic gospel moment
Her nomination in 2023 was widely regarded as a milestone for gospel music, marking a rare moment when the genre strongly competed in the schemeâs most prestigious and fiercely contested category.
Despite strong releases, significant airplay, large-scale performances, and visible fan mobilisation, she ultimately lost the award to Black Sherif after weeks of intense campaigning.
Within gospel circles, many believed it was her year, describing her nomination as both symbolic and historic.
Claims of narrative influence
During the interview, Piesie Esther directly addressed George Quaye, suggesting that his public commentary prior to the awards affected how audiences and industry stakeholders perceived her chances.
She indicated that in a competitive industry where narratives can quickly shape opinions, influential voices can significantly sway conversations and outcomes.
While she did not specify the exact remarks, she revealed that the situation caused her deep emotional pain.
âI was pained, and I am still in pain,â she admitted.
She further implied that without those public comments, the outcome might have been different.
Background to the controversy
Ahead of the 2023 ceremony, George Quaye, a former Head of Communications for Charterhouse, organisers of the awards, had publicly criticised alleged lobbying efforts by individuals linked to Piesie Estherâs camp. He spoke against reports that some stakeholders were being contacted to solicit votes for her Artiste of the Year bid.
The latest remarks have reignited discussion about lobbying practices, influence, and narrative power within Ghanaâs music awards landscape.
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