Stonebwoy
{{Short description|Ghanaian musical artist}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2024}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Stonebwoy
| image = Stonebwoy Burniton.JPG
| birth_name = Livingstone Etse Satekla
| alias = 1GAD
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1988|3|5|df=y}}
| birth_place = Ashaiman, Ghana
| origin = Alakple-Anloga, Ghana
| genre = {{hlist|Afropop|Afrobeats|Dancehall|Reggae}}
| occupation = Musician
| instrument = Vocals
| years_active = 2009–present
| label = {{hlist| Burniton Music Group|Def Jam Africa{{cite web|last1=DefJam|title=Stonebwoy announces partnership with Def Jam Records|url=https://www.defjam.africa/artist/stonebwoy/|website=www.defjam.africa|publisher=DefJamAfrica|access-date=18 May 2022}} |Ada music}}
| associated_acts = Sarkodie, Kwaw Kese, Kranium, Davido, i-Octane, Samini, Becca, Sean Paul, AKA, Burna Boy, Beenie Man, Mona 4Reall, Casper Nyovest, Patoranking, Morgan Heritage, Khalia, Jah Vinci, Ebony Reigns, Keri Hilson, Tinny, Edem, Kojo Antwi, Bounty killer, Demarco, Agent Sasco, Shaggy, Teni, Capleton, Damian Marley, Julian Marley
| website = https://stonebwoyb.net
}}
Livingstone Etse Satekla (Born 5 March 1988), better known by his stage name Stonebwoy, is a Ghanaian Afropop, Afro-dancehall and reggae musician from Ashaiman, Accra.{{Cite web |last=reggaeville |title=Biography: Stonebwoy |url=https://www.reggaeville.com/artist-details/stonebwoy/about/ |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=www.reggaeville.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=reggaeville |title=Biography: Stonebwoy |url=https://www.reggaeville.com/artist-details/stonebwoy/about/ |access-date=2023-08-16 |website=Reggaeville |language=en}}
He is the CEO of Burniton Music Group. He won the Best International Act: Africa category at the 2015 BET Awards and Artiste of the Year at the 2015 and 2024 Ghana Music Awards.{{cite web |author=Ameyaw Debrah |date=12 April 2015 |title=Stonebwoy rules 2015 Ghana Music Awards, Sarkodie, Edem, Daddy Lumba, Pappy Kojo and more win big! |url=http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/photos-videos-stonebwoy-rules-2015-ghana-music-awards-sarkodie-edem-daddy-lumba-pappykojo-Shatta-wale-and-more-win-big/ |access-date=21 April 2015 |work=ameyawdebrah.}} He is also a recipient of two Billboard plaques.{{Cite web|date=23 January 2020|title=Stonebwoy sets record as only Ghanaian act to receive 2 Billboard plaques|url=https://www.ghanamusic.com/news/news-flash/2020/01/23/stonebwoy-sets-record-as-only-ghanaian-act-to-receive-2-billboard-plaques/|access-date=19 February 2020|website=Ghana Music|language=en-GB}} Stonebwoy received the Golden Club plaque from Boomplay after surpassing 100 million streams on the platform. He has been described as the king of reggae and dance hall in Africa.{{Cite news |date=15 February 2017 |title=Stonebwoy Is The Best Dancehall Artiste In Ghana – Obaapa Christy |language=en-US |work=Gentlemenradio. |url=http://gentlemenradio.com/stonebwoy-best-dancehall-artiste-ghana-obaapa-christy/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170216105952/http://gentlemenradio.com/stonebwoy-best-dancehall-artiste-ghana-obaapa-christy/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=16 February 2017 |access-date=26 August 2017 }}{{Cite news|date=11 May 2016|title=Ghanaians Captured In List of Best Dancehall Artistes of All Time|language=en-US|work=Ghana News Today|url=https://buzzghana.com/best-dancehall-artistes-ranking/|access-date=26 August 2017}}{{Cite web |title=Who is the dancehall king now? Stonebwoy or Shatta Wale {{!}} This will blow your mind |url=https://www.xbitgh.com/who-is-the-dancehall-king-now-stonebwoy-or-shatta-wale-this-will-blow-your-mind/ |access-date=26 August 2017 |website=xbitgh. |language=en-US |archive-date=27 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220327074909/https://www.xbitgh.com/who-is-the-dancehall-king-now-stonebwoy-or-shatta-wale-this-will-blow-your-mind/ |url-status=dead }} Stonebwoy is also an actor, having appeared in the movies Happy Death Day and My name is Ramadan.{{Cite web|date=13 June 2018|title=Stonebwoy stars in new Kobi Rana movie, premieres this weekend|url=https://www.pulse.com.gh/entertainment/movies/my-name-is-ramadan-stonebwoy-stars-in-new-kobi-rana-movie-premieres-this-weekend/dzndsy5|access-date=5 January 2019|website=Entertainment|language=en-US}} He is a global ambassador for sanitation.{{Cite web|date=2 October 2019|title=Stonebwoy made Global Ambassador for Sanitation|url=https://theindependentghana.com/stonebwoy-made-global-ambassador-for-sanitation/|access-date=3 October 2019|website=The Independent Ghana|language=en-GB|archive-date=3 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191003082722/https://theindependentghana.com/stonebwoy-made-global-ambassador-for-sanitation/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web |date=2019-10-02 |title=Stonebwoy made Global Ambassador for Sanitation |url=https://citinewsroom.com/2019/10/stonebwoy-made-global-ambassador-for-sanitation/ |access-date=2023-08-16 |website=Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana |language=en-US}} In September 2019, he was made the brand ambassador for Voltic Natural Mineral Water.{{Cite web|date=20 September 2019|title=Voltic signs Stonebwoy as brand ambassador|url=https://theindependentghana.com/voltic-signs-stonebwoy-as-brand-ambassador/|access-date=3 October 2019|website=The Independent Ghana|language=en-GB|archive-date=3 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191003165108/https://theindependentghana.com/voltic-signs-stonebwoy-as-brand-ambassador/|url-status=dead}} He is the brand ambassador of Tecno mobile in Ghana.{{Cite web |date=2020-09-11 |title=TECNO Mobile makes Stonebwoy brand ambassador |url=https://citinewsroom.com/2020/09/tecno-mobile-makes-stonebwoy-brand-ambassador/ |access-date=2022-05-03 |website=Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2020-10-12 |title=Stonebwoy officially becomes Tecno brand ambassador {{!}} Ghana Music |url=https://ghanamusic.com/news/from-the-industry/2020/10/12/stonebwoy-officially-becomes-tecno-brand-ambassador/ |access-date=2023-08-16 |language=en-GB}}
In 2022, he signed to Universal Music Group's Def Jam Recordings, and its flagship Def Jam Recordings Africa,{{cite web |last1=Courage |first1=Onyema |title=Universal Music Group signs Stonebwoy to Def Jam Africa |url=https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/music/universal-music-group-signs-stonebwoy-to-def-jam-africa/j7pr0yk |website=Pulse Nigeria |access-date=10 May 2022 |language=en |date=3 May 2022}} to release his fifth studio album 5Th Dimension (2023), which debuted number eight(8) on Billboard Reggae Albums Charts.{{cite web | url=https://trace.tv/music/news/stonebwoy-releases-5th-dimension-fifth-career-album-available-today-via-def-jam-recordings/ | title=Stonebwoy Releases '5Th Dimension,' His Fifth Career Album, Available Today Via Def Jam Recordings | date=28 April 2023 }} He is commissioned to make three albums under the label.{{Cite web|url=https://mobile.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Stonebwoy-urges-support-after-signing-global-deal-with-Def-Jam-Africa-1531370|title=Stonebwoy urges support after signing global deal with Def Jam Africa|date=6 May 2022|access-date=6 May 2022|archive-date=11 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011051247/https://mobile.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Stonebwoy-urges-support-after-signing-global-deal-with-Def-Jam-Africa-1531370|url-status=dead}}
Life and music career
Etse was born in Ashaiman in the Greater Accra region of Ghana and began making music in his early school days. He realized his talents and abilities as a lyricist and scriptwriter at an early age, remembering writing and acting drama pieces as far back as his fourth year in primary school.{{Cite web|url=https://www.reggaeville.com/artist-details/stonebwoy/about/|title=Biography: Stonebwoy|last=reggaeville|website=www.reggaeville.com|language=en|access-date=9 August 2019}}
He obtained his high school certificate at Tema Methodist Day Secondary School and later enrolled at the University of Professional Studies to pursue a degree in Marketing, in 2013. However, he cut short his studies to focus on his music.{{Cite web |last=Mensah |first=Jeffrey |date=2022-01-20 |title=9 photos and facts about Stonebwoy's wife that prove she is a beauty with brains |url=https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/celebrities/200890-dr-louisa-10-most-beautiful-photos-of-stonebwoys-wife-as-she-celebrates-her-birthday/ |access-date=2022-05-03 |website=Yen.com.gh |language=en}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Stonebwoy-and-Wife-celebrate-2-years-of-marriage-755532|title=Stonebwoy and Wife celebrate 2-years of marriage|website=www.ghanaweb.com|language=en|access-date=9 August 2019}}{{Cite web |last= |date=2023-04-25 |title=Stonebwoy's Wife and Kids: The Artist Is Married To Dentist, Louisa Ansong, and Shares His 2 Children With Her |url=https://thedistin.com/2023/04/25/stonebwoys-wife-and-kids-the-artist-is-married-to-a-professional-dentist-and-shares-children-with-her/ |access-date=2023-08-12 |website=Thedistin |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2023-08-16 |title=Stonebwoy robbed in US after shopping at famed diamond shop - Reports |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Stonebwoy-robbed-in-US-after-shopping-at-famed-diamond-shop-Reports-1825685 |access-date=2023-08-16 |website=GhanaWeb |language=en}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.graphic.com.gh/entertainment/showbiz-news/very-safe-and-sound-stonebwoy-assures-after-news-of-robbery-attack-in-us.htm|title=Unknown}}{{Dead link | date=December 2024 | fix-attempted=yes}}{{Cite web |date=2023-08-16 |title='I'm safe and sound'-Stonebwoy speaks out after alleged robbery attack in US |url=https://ghanaweekend.com/2023/08/16/im-safe-and-sound-stonebwoy-speaks-out-after-alleged-robbery-attack-in-us/ |access-date=2023-08-18 |website=Ghana Weekend |language=en-US}}
In June 2024, Stonebwoy graduated with a degree in public administration from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).{{Cite web |date=2024-07-26 |title=Stonebwoy graduates from GIMPA with Second Class Upper in Public Administration |url=https://citinewsroom.com/2024/07/stonebwoy-graduates-from-gimpa-with-second-class-upper-in-public-administration/ |access-date=2024-07-29 |website=Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2024-07-26 |title=Stonebwoy bags degree from GIMPA with Second Class Upper Division |url=https://3news.com/showbiz/celebrities/stonebwoy-bags-degree-from-gimpa-with-second-class-upper-division/ |access-date=2024-11-19 |language=en-US}} In September 2024, Stonebwoy returned to GIMPA for a Master of Arts programme in International Public Relations and Diplomacy.{{cite web |title=Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration |url=https://gimpa.edu.gh/about-us/ |website=GIMPA |publisher=Creer Studio |access-date=13 October 2024}}{{cite web |last1=Agambila |first1=Dorcas |title=Stonebwoy goes back to GIMPA to pursue an MA in International Public Relations and Diplomacy |url=https://www.pulse.com.gh/entertainment/celebrities/stonebwoy-goes-back-to-gimpa-to-pursue-an-ma-in-international-public-relations-and/03ew08 |website=Pulse.com.gh |publisher=Dorcas Agambila |access-date=17 September 2024}}
His fifth studio album 5th Dimension, was released on 28 April 2023.{{cite web|title=Stonebwoy drops 5th Dimension album|url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/magazine/stonebwoy-drops-5th-dimension-album|date=2023-03-28|first= Gabriel Myers |last=Hansen|work=Music in Africa|access-date=2024-08-16}} It debuted No. 8 on Billboard Reggae Albums Charts.{{cite web|date=2023-05-10|first=Dani|last=Mallick|access-date=2024-08-16|url=https://www.dancehallmag.com/2023/05/10/news/stonebwoys-def-jam-debut-5th-dimension-enters-billboard-reggae-albums-chart.html|title=Stonebwoy's Def Jam Debut '5th Dimension' Enters Billboard Reggae Albums Chart}} {{cite web|title=Stonebwoy's Def Jam Debut "5th Dimension" Opens at No. 8 on the US Billboard Reggae Chart |url=https://worldmusicviews.com/stonebwoys-def-jam-debut-5th-dimension-opens-at-no-8-on-the-us-billboard-reggae-chart/|work=World Music Views|date=10 May 2023 |access-date=2024-08-16}}
His most recent release was on 24 September 2024, and is a single titled "Jejereje." The song's title translates from local parlance to “one's cup of tea,” implying that a person's actions shape their fate.
Recognition and musical style
Stonebwoy normally sings in Jamaican Patois (Patwa or Patwah). In 2015, he received awards and nominations ranging from "Artist of the Year" to "Album of the Year". His sophomore album, Necessary Evil, was the recipient of three Ghana Music Awards from 6 nominations.{{cite web|date=12 April 2015|title=Winners For 2015 Ghana Music Awards|url=http://www.zionfelix.com/winners-2015-ghana-music-awards/|access-date=21 April 2015|publisher=Bigx.com|archive-date=9 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160509102617/http://www.zionfelix.com/winners-2015-ghana-music-awards/|url-status=dead}} Nana Appiah Mensah, CEO of gold dealership company Menzgold, sent out words of encouragement to Stonebwoy on Instagram for Stonebwoy being supportive.{{Cite web|url=https://citinewsroom.com/2019/04/18/nam-1-bigs-up-stonebwoy-asks-for-gods-blessings-for-him/|title=NAM 1 'bigs up' Stonebwoy; asks for God's blessings for him|last=Dadzie|first=Kwame|date=18 April 2019|website=Citi Newsroom|language=en-US|access-date=20 April 2019}} On 18 April 2019, Nana Appiah Mensah posted a photo of Dance hall act Stonebwoy saying he is proud of the Bhim Nation president for defending him and that God bless him.{{Cite web|url=https://www.ghbase.com/nam1-praises-stonebwoy-after-he-defended-him-massively-screenshot/|title=NAM1 Praises Stonebwoy After He Defended Him Massively (+Screenshot)|date=18 April 2019|website=GhBase•com™|language=en-US|access-date=20 April 2019}}
He was listed as part of the 2019 50 (fifty) young CEOs, by YCEO and Avance media. The list, which was launched in 2018, honours distinguished young people providing solutions to some of Ghana's problems.{{Cite web|url=https://www.classfmonline.com/1.12409249#stonebwoy-named-among-2019-top-50-young-ceos-in-ghana|title=Stonebwoy named among 2019 Top 50 Young CEOs in Ghana|last=Apinga|first=David|website=www.classfmonline.com/1.12409249#stonebwoy-named-among-2019-top-50-young-ceos-in-ghana|language=en|access-date=3 June 2019}}{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}
In 2020, the Grammy Awards handed a plaque to Stonebwoy in acknowledgment of his role as featured performer on Grammy award-nominated single "AVRAKEDABRA" by Morgan Heritage.{{Cite web |last=Celeb |first=Ghana |date=2021-09-08 |title=Stonebwoy's Grammy Award Nomination, A Year on |url=https://www.boomplay.com/buzz/2496320}}{{Cite web |title=Stonebwoy bags Grammy nomination |url=https://ghanaguardian.com/stonebwoy-bags-grammy-nomination |access-date=2023-07-05 |website=The Ghana Guardian News |language=en}}
In 2021, three albums on which Stonebwoy featured were nominated for the 2022 Grammy Awards.{{Cite web |date=2021-11-24 |title=3 albums Stonebwoy featured on earn nominations at 2022 Grammy |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/3-albums-Stonebwoy-featured-on-earn-nominations-at-2022-Grammy-1408552 |access-date=2023-07-05 |website=GhanaWeb |language=en |archive-date=8 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230708105226/https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/3-albums-Stonebwoy-featured-on-earn-nominations-at-2022-Grammy-1408552 |url-status=dead }}{{Cite web |last=Somuah-Annan |first=Grace |date=2021-11-28 |title=Stonebwoy is not a Grammy nominee; Rocky Dawuni explains why |url=https://3news.com/stonebwoy-is-not-a-grammy-nominee-rocky-dawuni-explains-why/ |access-date=2023-07-05 |website=3News.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2021-11-26 |title=2022 Grammy nominations: Ghana's Stonebwoy receives 3 Grammy credits |url=https://www.pulse.com.gh/entertainment/music/2022-grammy-nominations-ghanas-stonebwoy-receives-3-grammy-credits/3fp8bfs |access-date=2023-08-18 |website=Pulse Ghana |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2021-11-24 |title=3 albums Stonebwoy featured on earn nominations at 2022 Grammy |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/3-albums-Stonebwoy-featured-on-earn-nominations-at-2022-Grammy-1408552 |access-date=2023-08-18 |website=GhanaWeb |language=en |archive-date=8 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230708105226/https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/3-albums-Stonebwoy-featured-on-earn-nominations-at-2022-Grammy-1408552 |url-status=dead }}{{Cite web |last=Nti |first=Daniel |date=2021-11-24 |title=Stonebwoy celebrates as albums he worked on get Grammy nominations |url=https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/celebrities/198318-ghana-world-stonebwoy-grabs-3-grammy-nominations/ |access-date=2023-08-18 |website=Yen.com.gh |language=en}}
In 2022, Vodafone Ghana recognized him for using his creativity and music to promote the awareness of environmental and sustainability issues. His song "Greedy Men" received an award and a cash reward of GH¢ 10,000.{{Cite web |last=Awal |first=Mohammed |date=2022-05-14 |title=Green Award: Vodafone recognises Stonebwoy for promoting environmental sustainability |url=https://thebftonline.com/2022/05/14/green-award-vodafone-recognises-stonebwoy-for-promoting-environmental-sustainability/ |access-date=2023-07-05 |website=The Business & Financial Times |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |title=Green Award: Vodafone recognizes Stonebwoy for promoting environmental sustainability |url=http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Green-Award-Vodafone-recognizes-Stonebwoy-for-promoting-environmental-sustainability-1536491?gallery=1 |access-date=2023-07-05 |website=GhanaWeb |language=en |archive-date=5 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230705203233/https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Green-Award-Vodafone-recognizes-Stonebwoy-for-promoting-environmental-sustainability-1536491?gallery=1 |url-status=dead }}
In acknowledgment of his achievement in securing the 8th position on its chart, Billboard honored him with a certified plaque.{{Cite web |last=Somuah-Annan |first=Grace Afua |date=2023-08-08 |title="Celestial family": Stonebwoy's 5th Dimension debuts No.8 on Billboard chart |url=https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/celebrities/239331-stonebwoys-5th-dimension-reaches-8-billboards-reggae-chart-celebrates-family-photo/ |access-date=2023-08-16 |website=Yen.com.gh|language=en}}
Philanthropy
Stonebwoy established the Livingstone Foundation.{{cite web|title=Photos: Stonebwoy Sponsors 5 Students From Alma Mater to Celebrate His Mum's Birthday|url=http://livefmghana.com/2017/01/20/photos-stonebwoy-sponsors-5-students-alma-mater-celebrate-mums-birthday/|website=livefmghana.com|access-date=3 January 2018|archive-date=12 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220812142931/http://livefmghana.com/2017/01/20/photos-stonebwoy-sponsors-5-students-alma-mater-celebrate-mums-birthday/|url-status=dead}} In January 2017 the foundation announced a sponsorship package for five students of the Tema Methodist Day Senior High School, his alma mater.{{cite web|title=Stonebwoy's Foundation Sponsors Five Students Of His Former High School (See Photos Of Ceremony)|url=https://www.ghanacelebrities.com/2017/01/21/stonebwoys-foundation-sponsors-five-students-former-high-school-see-photos-ceremony/|website=www.ghanacelebrities.com|date=21 January 2017 |access-date=3 January 2018}} As part of celebrations for Stonebwoy's 30th birthday, the foundation donated a sum of GH¢5,000 to the accident ward of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in March 2018.{{Cite web |date=2018-03-09 |title=Stonebwoy Donates GH¢5,000 To Korle-Bu Accident Centre |url=https://dailyguidenetwork.com/stonebwoy-donates-gh¢5000-korle-bu-accident-centre/ |access-date=2022-11-12 |website=DailyGuide Network |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2018-03-07 |title=Stonebwoy donates Ghc5,000 to Korle-Bu accident centre |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Stonebwoy-donates-Ghc5-000-to-Korle-Bu-accident-centre-632269 |access-date=2022-11-12 |website=GhanaWeb |language=en}} Stonebwoy has also opened the official BHIM merch shop in Ashaiman. Proceeds from the shop are used to fund activities of the Livingstone Foundation.
In 2020, the Livingstone Foundation in collaboration with the BHIM Merchandise Shop gave out free sanitizers as parts of efforts to combat the coronavirus spread in Ghana.{{Cite web |date=2020-03-25 |title=#COVID-19 The Livingstone Foundation Is Donating Hand Sanitizers To The Vulnerable {{!}} AmeyawDebrah.com |url=https://ameyawdebrah.com/covid-19-the-livingstone-foundation-is-donating-hand-sanitizers-to-the-vulnerable/ |access-date=2022-11-12 |language=en-US}} Stonebwoy also donated sanitizers and other items to the Police Department in Ashaiman to aid them in discharging their duties during the coronavirus pandemic in Ghana.{{Cite web |date=2020-04-03 |title=Stonebwoy donates hand sanitizers, water & other items to the Ashaiman Police Department |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Stonebwoy-donates-hand-sanitizers-water-other-items-to-the-Ashaiman-Police-Department-913594 |access-date=2022-11-12 |website=GhanaWeb |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Stonebwoy Donates Hand Sanitizers And Other Items To The Ashaiman Police Department |url=https://www.modernghana.com/entertainment/63013/stonebwoy-donates-hand-sanitizers-and-other-items.html |access-date=2022-11-12 |website=Modern Ghana |language=en}}
In 2022, the Livingstone Foundation together with Duffour Foundation renovated a basic school that serves four towns close to Stonebwoy's hometown.{{Cite web |date=2022-09-10 |title=Stonebwoy's Livingstone Foundation renovates school in Trekume |url=https://citinewsroom.com/2022/09/stonebwoys-livingstone-foundation-renovates-school-in-trekume/ |access-date=2023-07-05 |website=Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=COOMSON |first=NANA KWESI |date=2022-09-14 |title=Stonebwoy's Livingstone Foundation renovates school in Trekume |url=https://thechronicle.com.gh/stonebwoys-livingstone-foundation-renovates-school-in-trekume/ |access-date=2023-07-05 |website=The Chronicle News Online |language=en-US}}
Endorsements
Stonebwoy is the brand ambassador for Big Boss, an energy drink.{{Cite web|url=http://www.myjoyonline.com/entertainment/2019/November-29th/stonebwoy-named-brand-ambassador-for-big-boss-energy-drink.php|title=Stonebwoy named brand ambassador for 'Big Boss' energy drink|website=www.myjoyonline.com|access-date=13 January 2020}} In September 2020, Stonebwoy was named Tecno Mobile brand ambassador and unveiled the Camon 16 Series in October 2020.{{Cite web|date=2020-09-11|title=TECNO Mobile makes Stonebwoy brand ambassador|url=https://citinewsroom.com/2020/09/tecno-mobile-makes-stonebwoy-brand-ambassador/|access-date=2020-09-26|website=Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|title=Stonebwoy unveils TECNO CAMON 16 series|url=https://www.graphic.com.gh/business/business-news/stonebwoy-unveils-tecno-camon-16-series.html|access-date=2020-10-11|website=Graphic Online|language=en-gb}}
World tours and notable performances
Stonebwoy kicked off his world tour in the Euro-zone in August 2014.{{cite web|title=Stonebwoy tours Europe|url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Stonebwoy-tours-Europe-310238|website=www.ghanaweb.com|date=23 May 2014|access-date=3 January 2018}} He performed in Germany, Italy, Spain and Austria. In his 2016 Canada-America tour, he performed in New York City, Ohio, Philadelphia and Ontario. In the same year, he played in Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney.{{cite web |title=Stonebwoy Live In Australia |url=http://www.georgebritton.com/events/articles/pages/97d4e680-4d56-487d-a004-3d65ff5dd5d6 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180104083332/http://www.georgebritton.com/events/articles/pages/97d4e680-4d56-487d-a004-3d65ff5dd5d6 |archive-date=4 January 2018 |access-date=25 March 2019 |website=georgebritton}}
In his second Euro tour, he played in Denmark, Finland and Sweden in the last quarter of 2017.{{cite web|title=Stonebwoy set for European tour|url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/magazine/stonebwoy-set-european-tour|website=www.musicinafrica.net|date=19 July 2017|access-date=3 January 2018}} Stonebwoy performed at Reggae Sumfest,{{Cite web|url=https://www.graphic.com.gh/entertainment/stonebwoy-performs-at-jamaica-s-reggae-sumfest-today.html|website=www.graphic.com.gh|access-date=9 August 2019|title=Stonebwoy performs at Jamaica's Reggae Sumfest today}} Afro nation festival in Portugal,{{Cite web|url=https://www.ghanacelebrities.com/2019/08/01/stonebwoy-set-to-perform-at-afronation-concert-in-portugal-with-busy-signal-kranium-and-others/|title=Stonebwoy Set To Perform At AfroNation Concert In Portugal With Busy Signal, Kranium And Others|date=1 August 2019|website=GhanaCelebrities.Com|language=en-US|access-date=9 August 2019}} Rotterdam reggae festival,{{Cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/entertainment/51110/stonebwoy-thrills-audience-at-reggae-festival-in-germany.html|title=Stonebwoy Thrills Audience At Reggae Festival In Germany|website=Modern Ghana|language=en|access-date=9 August 2019}} Uppsala Reggae Festival.{{Cite web |title=Stonebwoy gears up for Shuga Summer Tour |url=http://www.myjoyonline.com/entertainment/2019/June-15th/stonebwoy-gears-up-for-shuga-summer-tour.php |access-date=9 August 2019 |website=Myjoyonline}} Rototom Sunsplash.{{Cite web|url=https://rototomsunsplash.com/en/invitado/stonebwoy/|title=Stonebwoy|website=Rototom Sunsplash|language=en-US|access-date=7 September 2019}}{{Cite web |title=Start Magazine |url=https://www.thestartmagazine.com/article/19ed2d42-015d-4169-87cc-590ed0dad5d6 |access-date=7 September 2019 |website=thestartmagazine }}{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}
Stonebwoy headlined the 2022 Global Citizen Festival at the Black Star Square, Accra alongside SZA, Usher, Sarkodie, Gyakie, H.E.R, Stormzy and Tems .{{Cite web |date=2022-10-20 |title=Unpacking the Global Citizen Festival - MyJoyOnline.com |url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/unpacking-the-global-citizen-festival/ |access-date=2022-11-12 |website=Myjoyonline. |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2022-08-15 |title=Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Gyakie For 2022 Global Citizen Festival |url=https://dailyguidenetwork.com/sarkodie-stonebwoy-gyakie-for-2022-global-citizen-festival/ |access-date=2022-11-12 |website=DailyGuide Network |language=en-US}} His performance was adjudged one of the best by industry professionals, critics and patrons.{{Cite web |last=Amoah |first=Geraldine |date=2022-09-26 |title=Stonebwoy steals show at Global Citizen, grabs Best Entrance recognition |url=https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/music/217289-stonebwoys-grand-entrance-global-citizen-festival-accra-video/ |access-date=2022-11-12 |website=Yen.com.gh |language=en}}
Discography
=Studio albums=
- Grade #1 (2012)
- Necessary Evil (2014)
- Epistles of Mama (2017)
- Anloga Junction (2020)
- 5th Dimension (2023)
- Up & Running (2024)
= Singles =
;Featured in
- 2021: "Guns of Navarone" (Sean Paul feat. Jesse Royal, Stonebwoy & Mutabaruka)
Awards and nominations
| class="wikitable"
|+ Awards won by Stonebwoy and his nominations !Year !Award ceremony !Award Presented !Nominated work/recipient !Result !Ref |
| rowspan="7" |2015
|Best International Act |Himself |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="2" |Vodafone Ghana Music
|Artist of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| Reggae/Dancehall
Artiste of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| All Africa Music Awards
|Best African Reggae, Ragga and Dancehall |Himself |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="3" |MTN 4Syte Music
Awards |Best Reggae/Dancehall Video |Himself |{{Won}} |
| Best Directed Video
|Himself |{{Won}} |
| Most Influential Artist
|Himself |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="6" |2016
|International Reggae and World Music Awards |Most Promising Act |Himself |{{Won}} |
| Vodafone Ghana Music
|Reggae/Dancehall Song of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="4" |Ghana Music Awards UK
|Most Popular Song of the Year |Himself |{{Nominated}} |
| Reggae/Dancehall
Song of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| Artiste of the Year
|Himself |{{Nominated}} |
| Album of the Year
|Himself |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="3" |2017
|Best International Act |Himself |{{Nominated}} |{{Cite web|url=http://www.myjoyonline.com/entertainment/2017/may-15th/stonebwoy-nominated-for-2017-bet-awards.php|title=Stonebwoy nominated for 2017 BET Awards|date=15 May 2017|website=www.myjoyonline.com|access-date=9 August 2019}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.nydjlive.com/bet-awards-2017-full-list-of-nominees-announced/|title=BET Awards 2017 : Full List Of Nominees Announced|date=15 May 2017|website=NYDJ Live|language=en-GB|access-date=9 August 2019}} |
| rowspan="2" |Vodafone Ghana Music
|Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| Reggae/Dancehall
song of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="6" |2018
|Best Reggae/Dancehall African Artiste |Himself |{{Won}} |
| Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards
|Favorite African Star |Himself |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="3" |3Music Awards
|Reggae/Dancehall artiste of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| Twitstar of the Year
|Himself |{{Won}} |
| Instagram Star of the Year
|Himself |{{Won}} |
| Vodafone Ghana Music
|Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="2" |2019
|African Entertainment Awards USA |Best Male Artiste |Himself |{{Won}} |
| AFRIMA 2019
|Best Reggae Dancehall Artiste |Himself |{{Won}} |{{Cite news|title=AFRIMA 2019 – Stonebwoy wins Reggae Dancehall artiste for 3rd time|language=en-US}}{{Cite news |last=Arthur |first=Erica Nana |date=2021-11-22 |title=Stonebwoy wins his fourth AFRIMA Reggae & Dancehall award |url=https://starrfm.com.gh/2021/11/stonebwoy-wins-his-fourth-afrima-reggae-dancehall-award/ |access-date=2023-08-18 |website=Starr Fm |language=en-US}} |
| 2020
|International Reggae and World Music Awards |Best African Reggae/Dancehall Entertainer |Himself |{{Won}} |{{Cite web|url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/entertainment/music/irawma20-stonebwoy-beats-burna-boy-shatta-wale-to-win-best-african-dancehall-entertainer/|title=IRAWMA'20: Stonebwoy beats Burna Boy, Shatta Wale to win Best African Dancehall entertainer|date=22 March 2020|website=MyJoyOnline.com|language=en-US|access-date=24 March 2020}}{{Cite web|url=https://museafrica.com/stonebwoy-adjudged-best-african-reggae-dancehall-entertainer-at-irawma/|title=Stonebwoy adjudged Best African Reggae/Dancehall Entertainer at IRAWMA – museafrica|language=en-US|access-date=24 March 2020}}{{Cite web|url=https://jamsbase.com/album-stonebwoy-anloga-junction/|title=Stonebwoy Anloga Junction Album – Jamsbase|date=25 April 2020 |language=en-US|access-date=23 May 2020}} |
| rowspan="5" |2022
|Reggae/Dancehall Act of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="4" |Vodafone Ghana Music
|Vodafone Green Award |Himself |{{Won}} |
| Reggae/Dancehall
Artiste of the Year |Himself |{{Won}} |
| Music for Good
|Greedy Men |{{Won}} |
| Best Collaboration
|Enjoyment Minister (featured) |{{Won}} |
| 2023
|Best Afro Pop of the Year | |{{Won}} |
| rowspan="35" |2024
| rowspan="6" |Telecel Ghana Music Awards |Reggea Dancehall Artiste of The Year | |{{Won}} | |
| Album of The Video
| |{{Won}} | |
| Record of the Year
| |{{Won}} | |
| Best International Collaboration of the Year
|Manodzi |{{Won}} | |
| Best Songwriter of the Year
| Manodzi |Manodzi |{{Won}} | |
| Artiste of the Year
|rowspan=3|Himself |{{Won}} | |
| rowspan=2|YEN Entertainment Awards
|Best Male Artist of the Year |{{pending}} |
| Most Stylish Male Celeb
|{{pending}} |
| rowspan=10|3Music Awards
|Album of the Year |5th Dimension |{{pending}} |
| Artiste (MVP) of the Year
| |{{pending}} |
| Best Collaboration of the Year
|"Likor" |{{pending}} |
| Digital Act of the Year
| |{{pending}} |
| Highlife Song of the Year
|rowspan=2|"Manodzi" |{{pending}} |
| Video of the Year
|{{pending}} |
| Performer of the Year
|BHIM 5th Dimension Concert 2023 |{{pending}} |
| Reggae/Dancehall Song of the Year
|"Non-Stop" |{{pending}} |
| Reggae/Dancehall Act of the Year
| |{{pending}} |
| Song of the Year
|"Into the Future" |{{pending}} |
| rowspan=5|Ghana Music Awards USA
|Artist of the Year |rowspan=2|Himself |{{nom}} |
| Reggae/Dancehall Artist of the Year
|{{won}} |
| Most Popular Song of the Year
|"Into the Future" |{{nom}} |
| rowspan=2|Best Collaboration of the Year
|"Likor" |{{nom}} |
| "Manodzi"
|{{nom}} |
| rowspan=12|Ghana Music Awards UK
|Artist of the Year |rowspan=2|Himself |{{pending}} |
| Reggae/Dancehall Artist of the Year
|{{pending}} |
| rowspan=2|Most Popular Song of the Year
|"Into the Future" |{{pending}} |
| rowspan=2|"Likor"
|{{pending}} |
| rowspan=2|Best Collaboration of the Year
|{{pending}} |
| rowspan=3|"Manodzi"
|{{pending}} |
| Songwriter of the Year
|{{pending}} |
| rowspan=2|Best Music Video of the Year
|{{pending}} |
| rowspan=2|"Into the Future"
|{{pending}} |
| rowspan=2|Best Afropop Song of the Year
|{{pending}} |
| "Not God (Remix)"
|{{pending}} |
| Best Afrobeats Song of the Year
|"Likor" |{{pending}} |
= Entertainment Achievement Awards =
In March 2021, his album Anloga Junction won the Album of the Year award in the Entertainment Achievement Awards. He also won the Male Artist of the Year Award.{{Cite web|date=2021-03-28|title=#EAAwards: Winning Album of the Year 'a big one for me' – Stonebwoy|url=https://citinewsroom.com/2021/03/eaawards-winning-album-of-the-year-a-big-one-for-me-stonebwoy/|access-date=2021-03-29|website=Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana|language=en-US}}
= 3Music Awards =
In March 2021, his album Anloga Junction won the Album of the Year award in the 3Music Awards. His song Putuu Freestyle (Prayer) won the Viral Song of the Year.{{Cite web|title=3Music Awards 2021: Full list of winners - MyJoyOnline.com|url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/3music-awards-2021-full-list-of-winners/|access-date=2021-03-29|website=www.myjoyonline.com|date=27 March 2021 |language=en-US}}
= International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) =
In May 2021, he was nominated for the 'Best African Dancehall Entertainer Award'.{{Cite web|title=Sarkodie, Shatta Wale, Kwame Yeboah, DJ Switch win awards at 2021 IRAWMA - MyJoyOnline.com|url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/sarkodie-shatta-wale-kwame-yeboah-dj-switch-win-awards-at-2021-irawma/|access-date=2021-05-18|website=www.myjoyonline.com|date=17 May 2021 |language=en-US}}
He has been honored by Billboard after securing 8th position on Reggae Chart and received a plaque.{{Cite web |date=2023-08-09 |title=Stonebwoy honoured after securing 8th position on Billboards Reggae chart |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Stonebwoy-honoured-after-securing-8th-position-on-Billboards-Reggae-chart-1821374 |access-date=2023-08-09 |website=GhanaWeb |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Stonebwoy's 'Life & Money' debuts on Billboard US Afrobeats Songs chart |url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/stonebwoys-life-money-debuts-on-billboard-us-afrobeats-songs-chart |access-date=2023-08-09 |website=www.myjoyonline.com |date=9 August 2023 |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Somuah-Annan |first=Grace Afua |date=2023-08-08 |title="Celestial family": Stonebwoy's 5th Dimension debuts No.8 on Billboard chart |url=https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/celebrities/239331-stonebwoys-5th-dimension-reaches-8-billboards-reggae-chart-celebrates-family-photo/ |access-date=2023-08-09 |website=Yen.com.gh |language=en}}
Personal life
Stonebwoy is married to Maali, a dental surgeon and ambassador for World Oral Health with two children, Catherine Jidula Satekla and L Janam Joachim Satekla.{{Cite web |last=Somuah-Annan |first=Grace Afua |date=2023-08-04 |title="Celebrating beauty and excellence": Stonebwoy and his family bag 1st amb. deal |url=https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/celebrities/239034-stonebwoy-wife-children-bag-family-ambassadorial-deal-gc-brand/ |access-date=2023-08-16 |website=Yen.com.gh |language=en}}
References
{{reflist}}
External links
{{Commons}}
- {{IMDb name|9724991}}
{{BET Award for Best International Act: Africa}}
{{authority control}}
Category:21st-century Ghanaian male singers
Category:Male singer-songwriters
Category:People from Volta Region
Category:People from Greater Accra Region
Category:21st-century philanthropists
Category:Ghanaian philanthropists
Category:Ghanaian chief executives
Category:21st-century Ghanaian male actors
Category:Ghanaian male film actors
Category:Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration alumni
Category:Ghanaian business executives