Reigning Airtel Trace Music Star champ Mayunga, was in town for the launch of the second season of the Pan African reality talent show.
The Tanzanian born star won a record deal as well as promotion for a total value exceeding $500,000 and a mentorship programme with Akon. His first track Nice Couple was shot in South Africa. Then, a few months ago, he was in Los Angeles with Akon to record his second single Please Don’t Go Away and shoot the music video.
Maureeen Kambona, Dj Andre and Naibutu Wanjira
"I thank God for the great and unique opportunity
I was afforded. The experiences I had will enable me to move further in my career. This platform gave me a chance to put my brand out there one that can be recognised the world over," Mayunga told Word Is, "After I won the Airtel Trace Music Stars, I spent a week in the US. My typical day involved going to the studio and spending time with Akon coming up with concepts for my single. The first days of my arrival, I was given a tour of Hollywood. I got to visit Universal Studio. On the third day, I hit the studio and recorded the song and mastered it on the same day."
Trace Nigeria MD Sam Onyemelukwe and Airtel Kenya's
Michael Okwiri and Dick Omondi
Mayunga added, "I learned a lot from my stint with Akon. He taught me that I must have self belief and discipline to follow through with my goals. Above all, I must love what I do. He told me I should learn to be myself because at the end of the day only I know what I want and not to be influenced by the changing trends."
Mayuya is not new to the music industry, before he auditioned for the show, he was a background singer for Lady Jay Dee's band and has recorded a collabo with Mr Blue called Tell Me Why.
Mayunga