HIS Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II commemorated his 10th anniversary on the Golden Stool with a series of events which was climaxed with a grand durbar of Chiefs and people at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on April 26, 2009.
The durbar was preceded on Friday, April 24 by a concert dubbed the MTN Otumfuo 10th Anniversary Celebration Concert held at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region.
The concert was one of MTN’s contributions to the celebration of 10 years of inspirational leadership by the Asantehene not only to his people but to the entire nation.
The show brought together some of Ghana’s finest secular and gospel musicians to honour the Asantehene. The bill included Lord Kenya, MTN icon Samini, GMA Artiste of the Year Okyeame, Lady Prempeh, Richie, Echo, Asem and Kwaku Gyasi.
The one artiste who stole the show in the opinion of many was Highlife star Amakye Dede who gave an unparalleled performance of about 30 minutes.
From all indications, the artistes prepared for the festival of music in various ways. For instance, Okyeame Kwame was carried on stage in a palanquin dressed in kingly apparel complete with a replica sword of state and crown while dancing and rapping to traditional drums. This reminded patrons of the rich culture and traditions of the Asantis.
The details of the performances of other artistes were in the appearance. Lord Kenya arrived on stage in a skirt which defiantly made a statement. Kwaku Gyasi and Samini came on stage sharply dressed in suits and neatly polished shoes which gave them a polished look. The suit was however not confining as they danced and performed their best. When it became too hot to perform in the suit however, Samini got rid of the jacket while Kwaku Gyaosi opened the buttons to his suits for better movement and Asem simply tossed his jacket to the waiting arms of the audience.
The night was however not all about performances, as there was a session for the cutting of the anniversary cake, popping of champagne and an elaborate firework display that lighted up the night for almost 10 minutes and could be seen from miles away. It was the highpoint of the concert for many.
Although the show was almost marred by the unpredictable rain, the concert lived up to the bill, much to the excitement of the youth of Kumasi.