In a story that blends talent, faith, and serendipity, Ghana’s celebrated gospel acappella group Alabaster Box has revealed how their vocal gift opened international doors, literally.
During an interview on TV3’s Showbiz 360, the group shared a remarkable experience from 2006, when they were asked to perform impromptu at the U.S. Embassy in Accra before being granted visas for a tour abroad.
“We’ve heard of you that you can sing, can you sing for us?” one of the embassy officials reportedly asked, prompting the group to break into harmony right at the visa interview window.
The performance was so captivating that embassy staff paused their duties to listen. Without even reviewing their documents, the visa officer approved their applications on the spot, instructing them to return the next day to collect their passports.
Founded in 1993 by Samuel Narku Dowuona, Gideon Allotey, Horst Ayub, and Michael Allotey, Alabaster Box has pioneered a unique genre known as Afroppella, a fusion of African rhythms and acappella harmonies.
Their journey from local stages to international platforms has been marked by groundbreaking milestones, First Ghanaian gospel group featured on BBC Focus on Africa TV in 2014, Only African act to perform at the London Acappella Festival in 2015, First Ghanaian gospel group to grace The Experience Lagos, performing before half a million people
Reflecting on their embassy experience, the group said it reminded them of the biblical proverb: “The gift of a man shall open doors for him.”
Beyond the anecdote, their story underscores the power of preparation and authenticity. At a time when their bank statement showed just GH¢1,000 (then 10 million old cedis), it wasn’t financial strength that secured their visas, but it was the strength of their gift.
Their journey continues to inspire young creatives across Ghana and beyond, proving that sometimes, the most powerful passport is your talent.
Story Written By Prince Asante Kwarteng | Kobby Kyei News
