Anticipation is intensifying ahead of the grand conclusion of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards scheduled for Saturday, May 9, as competition for the prestigious Artiste of the Year distinction reaches a decisive and highly charged moment.
Among the leading contenders, Medikal has advanced a forceful and uncompromising argument for why he merits the industry’s most distinguished recognition. Positioned within a formidable lineup that includes Black Sherif, Stonebwoy, Wendy Shay, Sarkodie, and Diana Hamilton, the rapper remains resolute in his conviction that his contributions over the past year set him apart.
Propelled by the widespread success of his chart dominating release Shoulder, the award decorated performer maintains that his artistic influence and output have surpassed those of his peers. In an engagement with Graphic Showbiz on Tuesday, April 27, the artiste, born Samuel Adu Frimpong, disclosed that although he has been repeatedly nominated in this elite category across the years, he had refrained from active advocacy until now, asserting that the present moment unmistakably belongs to him.
He explained that his renewed determination is grounded in a body of work he considers exceptional, referencing his string of successful singles, the Distribution II album, and a fully attended stadium performance as clear evidence of sustained excellence and industry dominance.
While affirming his respect for fellow nominees, Medikal emphasised that his confidence is not rooted in rivalry but in what he describes as a transformative cultural imprint. He maintained that his work has resonated deeply with audiences and has influenced the musical landscape in a manner that warrants recognition at the highest level.
This year, the artiste has secured eight nominations across multiple categories, including Artiste of the Year, Best Hiplife Song, Best Hiplife or Hip Hop Artiste, Best Music Video, Best Rap Performance, Collaboration of the Year, Album or EP of the Year, and Most Popular Song of the Year, underscoring the breadth of his impact.
He further identified Shoulder, which features Shatta Wale and Beeztrap KOTM, as the defining sound of 2025, arguing that its significance extends beyond numerical metrics to its pervasive presence in everyday cultural expression.
Reflecting on a pivotal milestone, Medikal described performing before a capacity crowd exceeding forty thousand attendees as a defining affirmation of his career trajectory, noting that the collective response of fans reciting his lyrics in unison represented an unparalleled validation of his artistry.
He also acknowledged the critical role played by his manager and brother, Kofi Jam, attributing much of the year’s success to coordinated effort and strategic direction.
As the awards ceremony approaches, Medikal indicated that securing the Artiste of the Year honour would symbolise not only personal advancement and consistency but also recognition of the unwavering support of his BYK fan community.
Nonetheless, he conveyed a measured perspective shaped by experience, recalling an earlier period in his career when he obtained seven nominations without a single win. That episode, he suggested, instilled resilience and ensures that regardless of the outcome, his commitment to the craft remains unchanged.
