TGMA 2026: Medikal Makes Strong Case for Artiste of the Year

As anticipation builds ahead of this year’s Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) on Saturday, May 9, competition for the Artiste of the Year (AOTY) title is intensifying.

Among the leading contenders, rapper Medikal is confidently asserting his claim to the top prize. Despite facing stiff competition from acts such as Black Sherif, Stonebwoy, Wendy Shay, Sarkodie and Diana Hamilton, he remains optimistic about his chances.

Buoyed by the success of his hit single Shoulder, the award-winning rapper believes his influence over the past year sets him apart. In an interview with Graphic Showbiz on April 27, Medikal known privately as Samuel Adu Frimpong revealed that although he has been nominated multiple times over the past decade, this is the first time he has actively campaigned for the award.

“Over the past decade, I have received Artiste of the Year nominations, but I never campaigned. This edition, based on the work I’ve put in from the hit singles and the Distribution II album to my sold-out stadium show, it’s obvious I’ve gone above and beyond,” he said.

The Confirm hitmaker emphasised that his confidence is not meant to undermine his fellow nominees but reflects the impact he believes he has made.

“I respect everybody in the category, but I deserve to win. I’ve put in the work, and Ghanaians know it. At the end of the day, it’s about impact, and I’ve made a strong case this year,” he added.

This year, Medikal has secured eight nominations, including Artiste of the Year, Best Hiplife Song, Best Hiplife/Hip-Hop Artiste, Best Music Video, Best Rap Performance, Collaboration of the Year, Album/EP of the Year and Most Popular Song of the Year.

He also singled out *Shoulder*, featuring Shatta Wale and Beeztrap KOTM, as one of the defining songs of the year.

“Shoulder is the biggest song of 2025. It’s not just about numbers, it’s about how people live with the music. That’s the real impact. Truth is, I didn’t just release music; I influenced the culture, and my impact was felt all around,” he stated.

Reflecting on his journey, Medikal highlighted performing before a crowd of over 40,000 fans at a sold-out stadium show as a major career milestone.

“Watching over 40,000 people sing every word while I performed at the sold-out stadium show was something else. That’s the defining moment for me. That’s when you know the work is real, the ultimate validation,” he noted.

He also credited his manager and brother, Kofi Jam, for playing a key role in his successful year.

“Teamwork is very key. My brother and manager, Kofi Jam and I have been leading the charge, ensuring everything runs smoothly,” he explained.

While awaiting the outcome on awards night, Medikal said winning the Artiste of the Year title would symbolise growth, consistency and recognition for both himself and his fanbase, known as BYK.

However, he remains prepared for any result, recalling a time early in his career when he received multiple nominations without a single win.

“Very early in my career, I got seven nominations and zero awards. That was a decade ago and I’m still here. So I won’t be discouraged,” he added.