‘Own the Stage’ karaoke contest debuts in Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria

Over the next three months, 15 contestants drawn from Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania, will contest via a number of themed challenges with one person ultimately emerging as Africa’s first karaoke champion. To be considered, entrants first have to battle it out at auditions. The first has already been held on 3 October in Nairobi, while the others are set for 10 October at the Holiday Inn, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and 17 October at the Protea Hotel, Lagos in Nigeria. The auditions run between 9am and 5pm local times.

Leading the panel of judges are Nigeria’s Jude Abaga, popularly known as M.I, as well as Yemi Alade and Kenya’s Bien Aime of Sauti Sol. Former Big Brother Africa winner, Uti Nwachukwu, brings his charming charisma to the show as the host. By visiting the competition’s website, a contestant will have the opportunity to upload a recorded karaoke rendition. The uploaded track is then subjected to a review by the judges who select the top entries with successful entrants being notified directly.

While the debut edition has only three countries participating, the mobile brand, with prominence in 32 countries, promised that subsequent editions will include participation from other countries. Notwithstanding, the competition is open to all and sundry. Understanding that karaoke is a form of music talent that is yet to be harnessed, Tecno is keying into this niche to showcase the rich talents in Africa.General Manager, Mobile Apps, Tecno Mobile, Oye Akindeinde noted that Africa is brimming with love and undeniable talent for music. There are a lot of people who, given an opportunity, will showcase to the rest of the continent and indeed the world just what they are capable of, Oye said of the competition.

The first place winner wins a grand prize of $25 000, a Phantom 5 smartphone, and the chance to record a song with one of the judges. The winner will also get the chance to record a music video and tour with a popular musical act. The second place winner wins $15 000, a Tecno Phantom 5 smartphone and a three-month internship opportunity with a renowned record label. The third place winner takes home $10 000 and a Tecno Phantom 5 smartphone.

Additionally, some lucky entries will stand a chance of getting entered into a bi-weekly draw to win the Phantom Tecno 5 phone, even after the competition comes to a close. The Tecno 'Own the Stage' competition premieres on Africa Magic on 25 October and will be broadcast on Africa Magic Showcase (DStv 151). The winner will be unveiled at a grand finale in February 2016. Interested contestants should visit the competition website for more details.