General
Next Afrobeats Star (NAS)
Who can enter the NAS competition?
Any solo Afrobeats artist can enter. Group acts and rappers are also eligible.
How do I enter the competition?
Text NAS to 13013 from an MTN line or visit https://nextafrobeatsstar.com to get a download link to the official instrumental(s).
Record your verse on the beat and upload it to the NAS website to complete your entry.
Does it cost anything to enter?
Yes. Each text to 13013 costs ₦600.
You may send multiple entries by texting again and uploading a different track.
What do I stand to win?
A N225 Million recording deal, a brand new car, a house, and an opportunity to take your sound global with career development support, mentorship, and massive exposure.
What is the selection process like?
- Online & Regional Auditions – Artists submit their entries through the official Next Afrobeats Star website.
- Trials – Selected contestants perform before the producers for a place in the competition.
- Versus – Contestants collaborate and compete on original instrumentals.
- Pick Me – The strongest performers earn a place in the live competition.
- Live Shows – Finalists perform weekly as they compete for audience votes and judges’ approval.
- Showdown Finale – The final contestants battle for the title of Next Afrobeats Star.
Who are the judges/mentors?
A powerhouse lineup of producers behind some of the biggest Afrobeats hits:
Masterkraft and Ragee
Where will the show take place?
The show is produced by and will hold at Ultima Studios in Lagos, Nigeria.
Will the public be able to vote?
Yes. Public voting will help decide who stays in the spotlight.
Voting details will be announced soon.
Can I submit more than one entry?
Yes. You can submit multiple entries by texting NAS to 13013 again and following the upload process with a different track.
What happens at the regional auditions?
If selected, you’ll be invited to perform your version of the NAS instrumental live in front of a panel of regional A&R judges.
If you receive 3 “yes” votes, you’ll get a NAS Pass and advance to the Trials, where you’ll perform for the four main producers.
Can I perform my original music at auditions?
Yes — but only if you download and submit a signed consent form from all contributors.
Without the signed form, you can only perform using the official NAS instrumentals.
What’s the theme of the show?
Take Your Sound Global — because NAS isn’t just a competition.
It’s a movement to showcase the best of Afrobeats to the world.