Priscilla Opoku-Kwarteng (February 16, 1997 - February 8, 2018), known professionally as Ebony Reigns, was a Ghanaian dancehall/Afrobeats artist celebrated for her hit songs "Poison" and "Kupe".
Ebony Reigns at the 4Syte TV Music Video Awards in 2016
Early Life and Education
Ebony Reigns was born Priscilla Opoku-Kwarteng and was affectionately known as Nana Heemaa by her family and close friends. She grew up in Dansoman, a suburb of Accra. Her parents were Nana Poku Kwarteng and Beatrice Oppong Marthin. She began her education at Seven Great Princess Academy in Dansoman and later attended Methodist Girls High School in Mamfe.
Music Career
Ebony's musical journey started when she was discovered by Bullet, a musician and businessman. Her debut song, "Dancefloor," was released in December 2015, accompanied by a music video and audio track. This song quickly gained popularity on the radio.
Breakthrough and Success
Ebony made history as the youngest and first female artist in Ghana to release approximately eight major music singles within a single year. She was hailed as the 'Original 90s Bad Gyal'.
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Tragic Death and Aftermath
Ebony Reigns tragically died in a car crash on February 8, 2018, while returning to Accra from Sunyani after visiting her mother. Her jeep collided head-on with a bus on the Sunyani-Kumasi Highway. Her assistant and friend, Franklina Yaa Nkansah Kuri, and a soldier named Atsu Vondee also died in the accident. The only survivor was the driver, Phinehas. She died eight days before her 21st birthday and one day prior to her scheduled music tour in Europe.
Her final funeral was held at the state house in Accra, and she was buried at the Osu cemetery on March 24, 2018. Many people and organizations contributed to her family with donations for the funeral.
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Controversies and Reactions
After Reigns died, controversies became rampant. Some believed that her death could have been prevented with better road construction and lighting, as the Mankranso road she was traveling on was in poor condition. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh, a pastor in Ghana, criticized some musicians and businesses for profiting from Ebony Reigns' death. For example, Ghana Textile Printing Limited (GTP) planned to manufacture customized cloths with some of Ebony's songs for naming ceremonies and funerals.
Road Safety Campaigns
Following Ebony Reigns' death, many Ghanaian celebrities initiated road safety campaigns to reduce accidents. Famous musicians like Sarkodie and Stonebwoy worked to promote safer roads. Sarkodie released a song called "Wake Up Call" addressing the causes of road accidents and preventive measures. The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts also planned a road safety campaign.
Road safety campaign after Ebony's death
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On the first anniversary of her death, Ghanaians showed love and concern by posting condolences and pictures of her on social media. Every year, on the anniversary of Ebony Reigns' passing, her family visits her gravesite at Osu Cemetery to offer prayers, lay wreaths, and spend time in remembrance. Eight days later, the family organizes a yearly Memorial Birthday Celebration in honor of the late musician.
Awards and Nominations
Ebony Reigns received several awards and nominations during her career, including:
- VGMA Artiste of the Year (2018)
- Bass Awards Artiste of the Year
- People's Celebrity Awards
Here is a summary of her awards:
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| VGMA Artiste of the Year | 2018 |
| Bass Awards Artiste of the Year | N/A |
| People's Celebrity Awards | N/A |
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