BY Daniel Bampoe
The 9th edition of the prestigious Eastern Music Awards (EMA) has officially opened nominations, setting the stage for yet another celebration of musical talent and industry excellence from the Eastern Region.
The awards, organized by Hi5Empire, have over the years cemented their reputation as the most consistent and credible regional music honors, dedicated to elevating local acts to national and international recognition.
This year’s call for entries runs from August 1 to September 1, 2025, inviting artists, producers, songwriters, music video directors, and other stakeholders to submit works released within the eligibility period — August 24, 2024, to July 25, 2025.
Submissions can be made through the official website, www.easternmusicawards.com, by navigating to the “Nomination Now” tab, completing the form, and receiving confirmation of receipt.
In a move to broaden its scope, the EMA board has introduced two new categories — Band of the Year and Instrumentalist of the Year.
“Band of the Year” will recognize an outstanding live performance group whose dynamic stagecraft, creativity, and audience appeal stood out across multiple recognized events during the year under review.
“Instrumentalist of the Year” will honor a musician whose exceptional skill and artistry on a musical instrument have had a notable impact within the same period.
Since its inception, the Eastern Music Awards has served as a launchpad for emerging talent from the region, with past winners going on to achieve significant success in the mainstream music scene.
Over nearly a decade, the scheme has been lauded for its transparent nomination and vetting process, which blends board evaluation, academy assessment, and public voting to determine winners.
The 2025 edition promises a more interactive and innovative experience for both nominees and fans, with the awards night set for December 13, 2025, at The White House in Koforidua.
With its growing influence and commitment to quality, the Eastern Music Awards continues to play a vital role in spotlighting regional creativity, nurturing future stars, and bridging the gap between grassroots artistry and mainstream success.
