At the 27th edition of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), one of the most competitive and closely watched categories once again delivered a historic outcome, and at the centre of it all stood Stonebwoy.
The Ghanaian reggae and dancehall powerhouse turned a night of seven nominations into another defining chapter of dominance, securing his 10th Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year award, a record that now stands unmatched in the category’s history.
He outperformed strong contenders including his long-time influence and “godfather,” Samini, alongside Ras Kuuku — affectionately known as the “Ghetto Youth President” — to clinch his milestone 10th reggae/dancehall crown.
History of the category
Since its introduction in 2015, the Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year category has grown into one of the most competitive honours at the TGMA, shaping conversations around dominance, consistency, and influence in Ghana’s music industry.
According to research by entertainment journalist Joseph Owusu Worae, Stonebwoy’s latest triumph brings his total wins in the category to 10, making him the most decorated artiste in its history.
It is a run defined not just by awards, but by sustained control of an entire musical space over nearly a decade.
Going into the night, Stonebwoy carried seven nominations, a clear reflection of his wide impact across the scheme. However, in the end, he converted his campaign into a single but powerful victory, claiming the category that has long defined his legacy.
Over the years, only two artistes have managed to interrupt his dominance; Ras Kuuku and Epixode.
Their wins in 2020 and 2021 came during a rare window where Stonebwoy was absent from the race. But in the seasons that followed, he returned with renewed force, reclaiming full control of the category and reinforcing his authority.
This latest victory at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre does more than extend a record, it pushes Stonebwoy into uncharted territory.
He now becomes the first artiste in TGMA history to reach double-digit wins in a single category.
For an awards scheme that has evolved for over two decades, and a category that has featured some of Ghana’s most respected reggae and dancehall voices, this milestone sets a benchmark that may stand untouched for years to come.
From his early rise in dancehall to becoming one of Africa’s most consistent global music exports, Stonebwoy’s journey has been built on endurance, evolution, and an unrelenting connection to his sound.
And now, with 10 wins secured, his legacy in this category is no longer just dominance , it is definition.
As the TGMA continues to evolve, one reality stands firm; in reggae and dancehall, Stonebwoy is not just a contender. He is the standard.
By Joseph Owusu Worae
