The search for Nigeria's next musical sensation has reached its climax as MTN Next Afrobeats Star reveals its final twelve contestants after months of intense competition. Among the standout talents who have survived the rigorous selection process are Tunexz, Eniolaa, and Ayo Benzy, all now competing for the grand prize of a $100,000 music deal.
The Journey to the Finals
The competition officially launched in August this year, beginning with an extensive audition process that selected 300 participants from across the nation. These hopefuls faced multiple elimination rounds, first being reduced to 48 contestants, then further narrowed down to 24, and finally to the current 12 finalists who will battle for the championship title.
Executive Producer of NAS, Olufemi Ayeni, emphasized that Afrobeats excellence extends beyond vocal ability alone. "The four judges are the beat makers who have produced some of the biggest music in the world," he stated, highlighting the comprehensive approach to talent development that the competition embodies.
The Judge Mentorship System
In an innovative approach to artist development, the twelve finalists have been divided into four groups of three, with each group assigned to one of the competition's acclaimed producer-judges: Puffy Tee, P.Prime, Sarz, and Andre Vibez. This mentorship structure allows contestants to receive direct guidance from industry heavyweights who have shaped the sound of contemporary Afrobeats.
Temidayo Babatope Joseph, known professionally as PuffyTee, expressed his enthusiasm for the groundbreaking nature of the competition. "The show is beyond rating, it broke scales. This is one of its kinds and I am excited to be part of the show. We are mentoring artistes that will take over the global stage," he declared.
Electrifying First Live Show
The competition moved into its live performance phase with an explosive showcase at Ultima Studios in Amore, Lekki, Lagos. The event featured high-energy performances that demonstrated the exceptional talent emerging from Nigeria's vibrant music scene.
The evening began with team performances from each judge's group. Puffy Tee's team opened the show with a collaborative piece, followed by Andre Vibez's duo who delivered their team song. Sarz's team raised the energy level by incorporating reggae and Fuji elements into their performance, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience. P.Prime's three-member team ultimately set the definitive tone for the night with their dynamic presentation.
The solo performances showcased the individual artistry of each contestant:
- Ayo Benzy performed "Jamilaya" produced by Puffy Tee
- Psamuel delivered "Jara" under Andre Vibez's production
- Yellow Girl, dressed in distinctive Asian conical hat and yellow outfit, performed "Cry of a Hustler" produced by Sarz
- First Choice presented "Anu" produced by P.Prime
- Lucky Yay performed "Loke" produced by Sarz
- Dave Cash delivered "Koleyewon" produced by Puffy Tee
- Kaeko performed "The Best" produced by Andre Vibez
- Immansion presented "Moving" produced by P.Prime
- Somto O'laker performed "Gbona" produced by Andre Vibez
- Tunexz delivered "Holy Water" produced by Puffy Tee
- Eniolaa brought vibrant energy with "You Don't Know" produced by Sarz
- Astroboi closed the individual performances with "Senorita" produced by P.Prime
The night concluded with a special performance by Lil Kesh, adding star power to an already spectacular event.
Life-Changing Prizes Await
The stakes couldn't be higher for the remaining contestants. The ultimate winner will secure a $100,000 music deal made possible through a collaboration between ONErpm and U-Records. Even those who don't claim the top prize will benefit significantly, with the remaining four finalists receiving music deals ranging from $75,000 to $25,000.
As the competition intensifies, music fans across Nigeria and beyond are watching closely to see which of these twelve talented artists will emerge as the next Afrobeats star destined for global recognition.
