According to a statement made available to Graphic Showbiz and signed by Head of Communications and Public Events at Charterhouse Productions, Robert Klah, the new policy will take effect beginning with the 27th edition of the awards.

The statement explained that the move is intended to give fair recognition to songs released in December, which often gain popularity after the nomination window for a particular year has closed.

“The Telecel Ghana Music Awards Board has introduced the Swing Period policy to ensure that outstanding songs released late in the year receive fair consideration within the awards scheme,” the statement said.

It added that under the new arrangement, songs released in December of the eligibility year may be considered for nomination in the following awards year, provided they satisfy strict requirements set by the Board.

The statement noted that to qualify under the Swing Period policy, a song must have been released in December of the eligibility year, must have demonstrated measurable impact within the year under review and must not have received a nomination in the previous edition of the awards.

Explaining the rationale behind the decision, organisers said the policy followed several years of consultations with key industry players.

“This decision follows about three years of engagement with industry stakeholders and reflects the Awards’ commitment to ensuring that impactful songs are not disadvantaged by the timing of their release,” the statement said.

The statement also revealed that two songs have already benefited from the newly introduced policy in the 27th edition of the awards.

They are "Messiah" by Sarkodie featuring Kweku Flick and "Excellent" by Kojo Blak featuring Kelvyn Boy.

According to the statement, both songs gained significant traction and audience engagement after their release, demonstrating the exact situation the Swing Period policy was designed to address.

“The organisers believe this policy will strengthen the mission of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards to recognise excellence, reflect industry realities and celebrate the full impact of Ghanaian music,” the statement added.

The organisers further noted that, as the music industry continues to evolve, particularly with changing release cycles, digital consumption patterns, and a growing global audience, the awards scheme will continue to refine its processes to maintain credibility and fairness.

“The Telecel Ghana Music Awards remains committed to refining its processes in ways that protect the credibility of the scheme while ensuring deserving works receive the recognition they merit,” the statement said.