Season 5 of Next Ma/Gaisa Star on the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation is officially underway, with a new group of contestants hoping the competition can open doors in Namibia’s music industry.
The show, which has become one of the country’s biggest platforms for Ma/Gaisa artists, continues to attract young performers from across Namibia looking for exposure, financial opportunity and a breakthrough in music.
Over the years, Next Ma/Gaisa Star has played an important role in promoting and preserving Ma/Gaisa music and culture, while also giving lesser-known artists a chance to perform in front of national television audiences.
For many contestants, the competition is seen as a rare opportunity to build a name for themselves in an industry where exposure can be difficult to access.
Apart from the publicity that comes with appearing on the show, contestants also compete for prize money and career opportunities that could potentially change their lives financially.
The competition has helped introduce several artists to wider audiences in previous seasons, with some contestants going on to perform at events and grow their music careers after the show.
Among the contestants this year is Chadre Ma/gei Apollus, who spoke to Unwrap.online about why he decided to enter the competition.
“I’m a contestant in the Next Ma/Gaisa Star show… I entered because as an upcoming artist, I need more,” he said.
Apollus, who describes himself as a full-time musician, said competitions like Next Ma/Gaisa Star can have a major impact on artists who rely entirely on music for income.
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“To be honest, besides music there’s nothing else that I do. Music is my life. I get paid through music… most of my funds come from there,” he explained.
He added that winning the competition could help artists build financial stability outside of music itself.
“Winning… the amount of money, it’s definitely going to benefit a person like me. I can start small businesses or make investments,” he said.
However, the contestant also highlighted some of the struggles upcoming musicians face in the industry.“You’re going to meet people that are just going to use you… just for your voice or to make money,” he said.
“In this industry, if you are desperate, it’s very dangerous.” His comments reflect a wider reality for many young Namibian artists trying to build careers in entertainment full time, especially in an industry where opportunities can be limited.
This year’s season is expected to feature tougher competition, with contestants competing not only for the title, but also for national exposure and a chance to create long-term opportunities for themselves through music.
