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Next Afrobeats Star is not just a reality show — it’s a bold new talent platform powered by MTN Nigeria and produced by Ultima Studios, designed to discover, develop, and launch the next global ambassador of Afrobeats.

Whether you’re recording in your room or already building a local fanbase, this is your opportunity to step onto the biggest stage of your career.

 

What You Stand to Gain

NAS offers a true pathway to professional success for emerging Afrobeats artists. More than just visibility, the platform provides the tools, mentorship, and structure needed to build a sustainable career.

A $100,000 record deal with OneRPM

Mentorship and production guidance from top Afrobeats producers: Sarz, P.Priime, Puffy Tee, and Andre Vibez

National exposure and performance experience through a professionally produced show

A springboard to take your sound to global audiences

You may submit multiple entries — each submission is a new opportunity to showcase your creativity.

Competition Format

  • Entry Phase – Upload your track via the NAS website.
  • Live Auditions – 48 contestants are selected.
  • Versus Round – Contestants are paired to face off in a performance battle.
  • Original Song Challenge – 24 artists create and perform original songs.
  • Final 12 – Judges select the top 12 who move on to the live show.

Who Can Participate?

Open to solo Afrobeats artists only

Open to solo Afrobeats artists only

No groups or rap entries are eligible

No groups or rap entries are eligible

Participants must be over the age of 18

Participants must be over the age of 18

Theme: Take Your Sound Global

NAS is borne out of a mission to spotlight the next wave of African sound.

The theme “Take Your Sound Global” reflects MTN’s continued commitment to helping young Nigerians build careers that transcend borders.

 

Theme: Take Your Sound Global

NAS is borne out of a mission to spotlight the next wave of African sound.

The theme “Take Your Sound Global” reflects MTN’s continued commitment to helping young Nigerians build careers that transcend borders.

 

Are you ready to take your sound global?

Text NAS to 13013 or visit nextafrobeatsstar.com to submit your entry

Are you ready to take your sound global?

Text NAS to 13013 or visit nextafrobeatsstar.com to submit your entry

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can enter the NAS competition?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?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.

Is there a deadline for entries?Is there a deadline for entries?

Yes. Submissions run from August 2nd to August 30th

Does it cost anything to enter?Does it cost anything to enter?

Yes. Each text to 13013 costs ₦300.

You may send multiple entries by texting again and uploading a different track.

What do I stand to win?What do I stand to win?

A $100,000 OneRPM record deal and the opportunity to take your sound global, with career development support, mentorship, and massive exposure.

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