Award-winning Ghanaian musician Samini has addressed concerns over his live performance at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards, explaining that technical issues with the event’s sound system affected the quality of his delivery on stage.
The celebrated reggae and dancehall artiste performed before a distinguished audience that included His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, and President John Dramani Mahama.
However, sections of the audience noted that the sound during his set was below the expected standard.
In an exclusive interview with the media after the event, Samini clarified that his performance was hindered by problems with the stage monitors, which made it difficult for him to hear himself in real time.
“For a live performer, technical issues come up every now and then — this was one of those moments,” he said.
“When your stage monitors are not working, you end up singing with the echo from the room, which delays your timing. So if you were in the audience, you might think I was offbeat, but it’s because I couldn’t hear myself properly.”
Samini added that his appearance at the awards was impromptu, as he had not been billed officially to perform.
According to him, his participation was prompted by a personal request from the GJA President, who is his classmate.
“I didn’t even come to the event as a performer. My band was scattered around, but when my classmate — the GJA President — asked if I could do a quick set, I agreed.
The band that played did great, but the only issue was with the sound monitors, which is nobody’s fault. These things happen,” he explained.
Despite the setback, Samini took the incident in stride, noting that technical challenges are part of live performances and do not define his artistry.
“As a professional, you just enjoy the moment and move on. If the sound engineers are listening, they’ll know that for live artists, proper monitoring is key,” he said with a smile.
The GJA Awards, held under the distinguished patronage of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, honored excellence in journalism and media practice.
The night also featured the presence of President Mahama, who delivered the keynote address emphasizing media freedom, integrity, and national development.
While Samini’s performance may not have met audience expectations due to the sound glitches, his professionalism and composure earned him praise from several attendees who appreciated his humility and candor after the show.
