Airtel Malawi launches US$35,000 Musical Competition, partners Trace, Akon

Airtel Malawi launched a K14 million (US$34,508.26) mobile music competition in the country on Tuesday in Lilongwe which will be conducted in a partnership with Trace Music Star and international music super star Akon.

Airtel Malawi Managing Director Heiko Schlittke who described the initiative called ‘Airtel Trace Music Star’ as ‘a combination of talent and technology’ said apart from the overall national winner carting home the whole K14 million, he or she will also have an opportunity to compete with other African winners at a Pan African concert

“The overall winner on the African scene will win a cool US$50,000 alongside a recording deal with Kon Live, a distributed label through Universal Music Group and an intense mentorship programme with Akon in the US,” said Schlittke to the applause of the people that witnessed the launch.

Schlittke said the competition will take place in 13 countries where Airtel operates.

He said the best singing talent of the territory will be identified, rewarded and put in competition with the best singing talents of other participating territories across African to run for the accolade of best African Music Talent.

“Airtel believes that the passion for music is one of the core attributes to Malawi and Africa as a whole. Music is a language that knows no border and with this competition, Airtel would want to see a great deal of creative talent. The brand is committed to championing, exposing and rewarding talent,” he explained.

According to Schlittke, Trace and Airtel Malawi aims are to identify and reward the best singing talents among Airtel Malawi participating mobile subscribers.

To join the competition, subscribers will have to call the Airtel Trace Stars number 59911 between the October 7, 2014 and December 10, 2014.

“This development further underlines Airtel’s obligation to unleash art, potential, creativity and talent,” Schlittke said.

TRACE is a French international brand and media group active in urban music and sports celebrities. Since 2003, TRACE has launched 15 success pay-TV and digital platforms that are available in 160 countries to more than 80 million.