Nearly a decade ago, the Ghanaian music scene was shaken by the arrival of a bold new force, Ebony Reigns.
To some, she represented the future of Ghanaian music; to others, she was labeled “vulgar.” Yet her impact was undeniable.
Born Priscilla Opoku-Kwarteng, Ebony pursued her passion for music with fearless determination.
She dropped out of high school to chase her dream and was later discovered by artiste manager Bullet of Ruff Town Records.
Her debut single “Dancefloor” in December 2015 quickly became a hit, paving the way for other chart-toppers such as “Poison,” “Kupe,” “Hustle,” “Maame Hw3,” and “Date Ur Fada.”
In 2017, she released her debut album “Bonyfied,” which solidified her place in the industry.
Family commemorates eight years of Ebony’s death
Affectionately called Nana Hemaa by family and friends, Ebony earned several recognotions, including:
• 2017 Artiste of the Year at the Bass Awards
• 2017 Favourite Female Musician at the People’s Celebrity Awards
• 2018 VGMA Artiste of the Year, Afropop Song of the Year (Sponsor), and Album of the Year (Bonyfied)
Tragically, on February 8, 2018, Ebony lost her life in a fatal traffic collision on the Sunyani-Kumasi highway while returning to Accra after visiting her mother.
She died just eight days before her 21st birthday and one day before her scheduled European tour.
Her close friend Franklina Yaa Nkansah Kuri and soldier Atsu Vondee also died in the crash, with only the driver surviving.
Eight years on, Ebony’s death continues to leave a lasting void in Ghana’s music industry.
Her fearless artistry and unapologetic style remain a source of inspiration for many young musicians.
PAT/EB
