Joe Mettle is a Ghanaian gospel musician

Ghanaian gospel musician Joe Mettle has hinted that he may no longer participate in future nominations for the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs).

Speaking in an interview on TV3 on May 16, 2025, the “Kadosh” hitmaker clarified that his decision is not driven by a sense of superiority over the scheme, but rather by the demands and expectations that come with being a part of the awards process.

“I think I do [have intentions to retire from the awards]. For the past three or four years, I’ve wanted to take a step back from the awards. And it’s not because I think I’ve outgrown them, no, it’s not that,” he said.

Joe Mettle noted that being involved in the awards requires significant effort, especially when an artiste is nominated and expected to campaign or promote their nomination.

“There are things the awards require that sometimes you’re not able to do. Because once you’re nominated, you need to push it, and sometimes there’s a lot going on,” he stated.

He added that while the public may sometimes perceive artistes who don’t actively promote their nominations as arrogant, that is often a misunderstanding.

“Sometimes it gets to a point where so much is happening around you that you can’t fully commit to the requirements. In the media, they might think you’re acting ‘big,’ but it’s not the case. Most of those are assumptions,” he explained.

The “Onwanwani” singer further shared that an artiste’s career goes through different seasons, and there are times when one's focus naturally shifts, making full participation in award-related activities challenging.

“There are seasons. A time comes when you realize you can’t commit to the awards like you used to. But it’s not because you’ve outgrown them,” he added.

Despite his reflections on stepping back, Joe Mettle had a successful night at the 2025 TGMAs, taking home two awards; Best Gospel Artiste of the Year and Best Male Vocal Performance for his song “Obo Awan Oba.”

Meanwhile watch as King Promise wins Artiste of the Year at 2025 TGMAs:

Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:

AK/MA