Gospel music executive and media personality Daniel Lartey has expressed disappointment in celebrated gospel musician Joe Mettle following his decision to opt out of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) 2026.
Speaking in an interview on Hitz Praise Zone on Hitz FM, hosted by Nii Noi on Sunday, March 1, Dan Lartey said he was personally disappointed by the decision, even though he acknowledged it was within the artiste’s rights.
“For me, I was highly disappointed. Yes, I was disappointed because when it comes to awards, it goes beyond just the artist,” he stated.
According to Lartey, Joe Mettle’s withdrawal from the awards scheme does not only affect him as an individual but also impacts the loyal fan base that has consistently supported him through voting over the years.
“Has he considered his fans? Because every year, they vote for him. The reason is he has been winning the awards,” he added.
The gospel executive referenced Joe Mettle’s strong history with the awards, recalling his major wins in previous years, including his landmark success in 2017 and continued dominance in subsequent editions, despite challenges within the awards scheme.
Lartey emphasised that Joe Mettle remains one of the most influential figures in Ghana’s gospel music space and suggested that his participation lends credibility and value to the awards.
“If you mention the top gospel artistes, apart from others, Joe would be one of the next persons,” he said.
While stressing that he respects Joe Mettle’s personal decision to step aside from the 2026 TGMA, Dan Lartey maintained that his disappointment stems from the broader implications for the gospel music community and fans who look forward to seeing their favourite artistes represented on such platforms.
“Well, that’s his decision. We respect it. But for me, I’m highly disappointed,” he concluded.
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