2026 TGMA: Lali x Lola call for 'Group of the Year' category to return

The twin sisters making waves in the Ghanaian music scene, Lali x Lola have called on the organisers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) to bring back the “Group of the Year” category, which was omitted from the 2026 nominations.

In a statement released on March 17, 2026, Lali x Lola expressed concern over the exclusion of the category, stressing the importance of recognising music groups in Ghana’s evolving industry.

“We write to respectfully express our concern regarding the omission of the ‘Group of the Year’ category from this year’s nominations. We understand the Board’s position that there may not be a sufficient number of qualifying groups to sustain the category. However, we believe this reasoning presents a classic ‘chicken-and-egg’ situation,” the duo noted.

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They explained that the omission of the category could actually discourage the growth it aims to protect.

“The absence of the category may inadvertently contribute to the limited number of active and competitive music groups in Ghana. Award platforms such as TGMA play a critical role not only in recognising excellence but also in shaping industry behaviour and growth,” they added.

According to the twins, maintaining the “Group of the Year” category is essential for encouraging the formation and sustainability of group acts.

“By maintaining the category, the scheme actively encourages the formation, development, and sustainability of music groups. Conversely, its removal risks discouraging investment in group acts, which are already more complex to manage, brand, and sustain compared to solo artistes,” they said.

Lali x Lola emphasised the contribution of music groups to the industry, noting their ability to blend diverse talents, foster collaboration, and create cultural moments that often surpass individual artistry.

The duo concluded with a respectful appeal to TGMA organisers: “We therefore respectfully appeal to the Board to reconsider this decision and reinstate the ‘Group of the Year’ category. Doing so would send a strong signal of support to existing groups and inspire emerging talents to explore collaborative artistry.

“In the long term, this decision will not only preserve an important aspect of our musical heritage but also contribute to a more diverse and competitive industry.”

The TGMA had previously removed the category in 2022 but reinstated it in 2025, and gospel group Team Eternity were declared winners. However, in the 2026 edition, the category has once again been omitted.



AK/EB