Ghanaian music star Wendy Shay has publicly acknowledged the contribution of young dancer Tracey Shay for her role in making her hit song “Too Late” go viral. The heartfelt recognition came during Wendy Shay’s award acceptance speech at the 9th edition of the Africa Music Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA), held in Lagos, Nigeria.
While receiving the Best Female Artiste, West Africa award at the prestigious ceremony, Wendy Shay took a moment to express gratitude to God and to spotlight the growing influence of digital creativity in today’s music industry. In her remarks, she singled out Tracey Shay, crediting the young dancer’s viral choreography as a major force behind the massive online success of “Too Late.”
According to Wendy Shay, Tracey Shay’s energetic and engaging dance routine helped the song gain widespread attention across social media platforms, particularly on short-form video apps where music discovery is increasingly driven by visuals and choreography.
The singer emphasised that the song’s popularity extended beyond radio airplay and streaming numbers, thriving largely because of its strong digital presence.
The acknowledgment underscored Wendy Shay’s appreciation for young creatives who contribute significantly to the success of music beyond the recording studio. By publicly recognising Tracey Shay, the award-winning artiste highlighted the collaborative nature of modern music promotion, where dancers, content creators, and influencers play a central role in shaping trends and amplifying songs.
The moment also drew attention to the evolving dynamics of the global music industry, especially in Africa, where viral dances often determine how quickly a song resonates with audiences. In the age of TikTok, Instagram Reels, and other short-form video platforms, choreography has become a powerful promotional tool, capable of transforming songs into global sensations within days.
Wendy Shay’s gesture resonated with many in attendance and online, as it reinforced the importance of acknowledging behind-the-scenes contributors, particularly young talents whose creativity fuels viral culture. Industry observers noted that such recognition encourages emerging dancers and digital creators to pursue their craft with confidence, knowing their efforts can be valued at the highest levels of the music business.
The emotional highlight of Wendy Shay’s speech added depth to an already memorable night, reminding audiences that success in music is rarely achieved in isolation. Instead, it is often the result of collective creativity, teamwork, and shared passion.
As Wendy Shay continues to elevate Ghanaian music on international platforms, her recognition of Tracey Shay serves as a powerful example of mentorship, gratitude, and inclusivity. It also sends a clear message that in today’s digital era, every creative contribution matters, and young talents have a vital role to play in shaping the future of African music.
