“TABLE OF MEN ARE NOT VERANDA BOYS TO BE THROWN AROUND” – Kwesi Ernest Fires Shots at Gospel Artistes
Kwesi Ernest, artiste manager and founding member of the influential gospel music advocacy group Table of Men, has issued a stern warning to gospel musicians, accusing some of disrespecting industry leadership.
In an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb’s Isaac Dadzie, Ernest pushed back against claims that the group sidelines certain gospel artistes, insisting that the Table of Men exists to support not undermine—urban gospel musicians.
“The Table of Men did not ignore any gospel artiste, as speculated in the media,” Ernest stated. “What we are saying is simple: If an artiste believes our influence can help boost their award chances, we are open to supporting them. But they must respect leadership. We are not veranda boys to be tossed around by any artiste who gets nominations.”
Ernest pointed out that secular artistes often hire PR teams to enhance their award campaigns, questioning why gospel musicians wouldn’t do the same instead of dismissing industry structures.
“This year, we’ve seen artistes with global leverage appoint PRs for awards. Why shouldn’t gospel artistes do likewise? We’re simply asking for respect and appreciation of leadership,” he emphasized.
The comments come after MC Yaa Yeboah accused the group of bias in supporting select gospel acts. Ernest dismissed the allegations, stressing that the Table of Men was formed to fight injustices against all gospel musicians—not just a chosen few.
“There’s no favoritism here. My own artiste, ACP Kofi Sarpong, is a contemporary gospel musician. Would I be part of a group working against him? Our mission is to support and advocate for fairness in the industry,” he countered.
The Table of Men has a history of championing gospel artistes in major awards, having previously backed stars like Diana Hamilton and Piesie Esther. Despite past tensions, their efforts have yielded results—most notably with Nacee’s sweep at the 2024 Ghana Music Awards, where he clinched Artiste of the Year among other accolades.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
