Early Life and Family Background
Full Name: Gifty Osei
Stage Name: Empress Gifty
Date of Birth: October 25 (Year undisclosed)
Place of Birth: Ghana
Parents: Agnes Annan (known as Agaga), a Kumawood actress and Evangelist
Siblings: Not publicly disclosed
Ethnicity: Akan (likely from the Central or Western Region)
Empress Gifty Osei was born into a Christian family with strong ties to the arts and ministry. Her mother, Agnes Annan, is a well-known Kumawood actress and Evangelist, which exposed Gifty to both the entertainment industry and the Christian faith from a young age.
Education and Early Career
Gifty began her education at Mantey Din Primary School and Oninku Junior Secondary School in Tema. After completing her basic education, she pursued a course in fashion design at a fashion school in Tema. Subsequently, she opened her fashion school in Tema, where she trained students in fashion and lifestyle.
Musical Career and Achievements
Debut and Rise to Fame
Gifty Osei’s musical journey began with her debut album, Aseda, released in 2007. The album’s success established her as a prominent figure in the Ghanaian gospel music scene. Over the years, she has released several albums and singles, including:
- Fefeefe (2012)
- Ebibinnwom (2017)
- Adom (2017)
- Ebenezer (2017)
- Jesus Over Do (2020)
- Odiyompo (2021)
- Eye Woa (2021)
- Awiey3 Pa (2023)
- Watch Me (2024)
Her music, characterized by powerful vocals and inspirational lyrics, has resonated with audiences both in Ghana and internationally.
Awards and Recognition
Empress Gifty’s contributions to gospel music have been recognized through various awards:
- 2012: VGMA Gospel Artist of the Year
- 2012: VGMA Gospel Album of the Year for Fefeefe
- 2015: Best Female Gospel Musician of the Year at the Gospel Music Awards Italy
- 2017: Most Stylish Artist of the Year at the Fashion and Lifestyle Awards
- 2021: Music Video of the Year at the Ghana Urban Gospel Music Awards
- 2021: Digital Act of the Year at the 3Music Awards
- 2018: Gospel Artist of the Year at the National Gospel Music Awards
Additionally, she has received nominations for:
- Best Gospel Song of the Year for “Jesus Over Do” at the VGMA (2021)
- Best Gospel Artiste of the Year at the VGMA (2021)
- Gospel Act of the Year at the 3Music Awards (2021)
- Gospel Song of the Year for “Jesus Over Do” at the 3Music Awards (2021)
- Woman of the Year at the 3Music Awards (2021)
Collaborations and Performances
Empress Gifty has collaborated with various artists, including Opanka and Zaza Mohkheti from South Africa. She is also known for her annual event, The Resurrection Effect Concert, where she performs alongside other artists to celebrate and promote gospel music.
Personal Life
Empress Gifty is married to Hopeson Adorye, a Ghanaian politician. The couple has two children. She has been open about her struggles, including the challenges she faced during her first marriage, which she has mentioned in interviews.
Fashion and Public Image
Beyond her music, Empress Gifty is recognized for her fashion sense and public image. She is the first gospel artist in Ghana to reach 1 million followers on Instagram, highlighting her influence in both the music and fashion industries.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Empress Gifty Osei’s journey from a fashion designer to a celebrated gospel musician underscores her versatility and dedication to her craft. Through her music and public persona, she continues to inspire and uplift audiences, making significant contributions to the Ghanaian entertainment industry.
Discography
- Aseda (2007)
- Fefeefe (2012)
- Ebibinnwom (2017)
- Adom (2017)
- Ebenezer (2017)
- Jesus Over Do (2020)
- Odiyompo (2021)
- Eye Woa (2021)
- Awiey3 Pa (2023)
- Watch Me (2024)
Conclusion
Empress Gifty Osei’s multifaceted career as a gospel musician, fashion icon, and public figure reflects her commitment to excellence and her desire to positively impact society. Through her music, she continues to touch lives and inspire many, solidifying her place as a prominent figure in Ghana’s entertainment landscape.
