From L to R; Becca, Sista Afia, Mzbel, Wendy Shay, and Sister Derby
Social media trolling has been a huge challenge for celebrities, particularly female showbiz personalities.
While some perceive that celebrities must develop thick skin to endure the trauma and pain that comes with it, these situations often take a negative toll on them.
This article focuses on five female Ghanaian musicians who have been subjected to online abuse over the years.
Ghanaian singer Rebecca Akosua Acheampong, popularly known as Becca, who has been in the music industry for over two decades, has constantly faced accusations of bleaching her skin.
In 2018, a photo of Becca sparked online reactions, with some netizens accusing the musician of skin bleaching.
These allegations resurfaced in 2020 and 2023 after the “African Woman” singer posted a video of her on Instagram.
In response to the backlash, Becca, on February 5, 2025, stated that she remains unfazed by the negative comments about her.
Wendy Shay
Wendy Shay’s entrance into the Ghanaian music industry sparked significant controversy, as she was signed under Rufftown Records just after the passing of Ebony Reigns.
Many Ghanaians doubted Wendy Shay’s ability to fill Ebony’s shoes, and since her debut single “Uber Driver” in 2018, the musician has faced relentless social media backlash.
Wendy Shay has been accused of having a secret relationship with her manager, being body-shamed, among other criticisms.
Sista Afia
Sista Afia has also been the subject of criticism on social media, with trolls targeting her weight and body enhancement procedures.
In 2018, she revealed that she was compelled to lose weight due to the harsh criticisms online. “I was called so many names after my performances. Some fans told me I needed to lose weight because I wasn’t attractive,” she recalled.
The criticisms resurfaced recently when she became the centre of attention at the birthday celebration of business mogul Richard Nii-Armah Quaye.
Netizens criticised her for the revealing outfit she chose for the event.
Sister Derby
Singer Deborah Vanessa, popularly known as Sister Derby, has faced significant online backlash over the years.
In 2014, she was heavily criticised for entering into a romantic relationship with rapper Medikal, who was believed to be younger than her.
When their five-year relationship ended in 2018 and Medikal began dating actress Fella Makafui, Sister Derby once again became the subject of public scrutiny.
Some netizens continue to label her as an “old woman,” claiming that Fella Makafui was a better choice.
Hiplife musician Belinda Ekuam Amoah, popularly known as Mzbel, has been at the center of numerous allegations throughout her career.
She has been accused of having a son with the late singer Castro, despite consistently denying the rumors.
Mzbel has also faced online abuse for her choice of outfits, with some labeling her a “prostitute.”
In a recent interview, Mzbel opened up about the emotional toll of the false allegations and intense online abuse she has endured. She admitted that she often cried when reflecting on times she failed to respond to the negativity and attacks.
“Sometimes, you can check the social media pages of these people, and they’re not even worth the attention. I am way older than some of them, but because they think you are a celebrity, they feel entitled to talk to you however they want,” she said.
These five female musicians have been subjected to unrelenting online abuse, but they continue to thrive despite the challenges, showing resilience in the face of cyberbullying.
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