As anticipation builds toward the 27th edition of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards, a recurring debate within Ghana’s creative space has resurfaced.

The question at the centre of the debate each year is whether the scheme rewards songs that contain explicit or profane content.

The conversation was sparked by the nomination of a particular body of work that some critics argue crosses the line.

Speaking on Hitz FM on March 25, 2026, Robert Klah, Head of Public Events and Communications at Charterhouse, offered insight into how the board approaches such works.

According to him, the scheme does not endorse outright explicit material, particularly when it involves sexual content or incitement to violence.

However, he pointed out that artistic expression is a critical consideration in the evaluation process.

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Klah explained that every submission is assessed on its own merit, with the board mindful not to stifle creativity.

Robert noted that music, like any art form, often reflects real-life experiences and cultural nuances, making it difficult to impose a rigid, one-size-fits-all standard across all genres.

“The board is not supportive of explicit sexual songs. And then if you are inciting violence. But at the end of the day, there is always this element of artistic expression. And artistic expression needs to be evaluated on its merits,” he said.

According to the Head of Public Events and Communications at Charterhouse, a key factor in the board’s decision-making process is categorisation.

He noted that different genres are treated with varying degrees of strictness.

For instance, gospel music is held to a higher moral and lyrical standard due to its spiritual nature and audience expectations.

In contrast, genres such as Afrobeats, dancehall, and hip hop are approached with a cultural lens. These styles, often rooted in street expression and global influences, may accommodate language or themes that would not be acceptable in more conservative categories.

Klah indicated that the board relies on defined guidelines and industry standards, including classifications used by digital streaming platforms, to determine what qualifies as explicit content.

He also referenced broadcast regulations, particularly in relation to radio airplay, where certain content may only be permitted at specific times of the day. These external benchmarks help shape the board’s internal framework.

Another distinction the board considers is the difference between explicit and suggestive content.

Klah noted that not all suggestive material is classified as explicit. In many cases, such expressions are subtle, layered, or culturally coded in ways that resonate with local audiences without being overly explicit.

“Some things can be suggestive. It doesn’t mean that it’s explicit. And so if it’s suggestive, it’s an undertone. It’s hidden. It’s like that kind of thing. And it is culturally accepted by us when you are singing and the other,” he noted.

Does TGMA exclude profane songs? -@robertklah sets the record straight.#ShowbizReview | #GhanaMonthOnHitz pic.twitter.com/lUcfsmFtVj

— Hitz 103.9 FM (@Hitz1039FM) March 25, 2026