African Gospel Foundation launches singing competition

The Gospel Dreams Africa competition seeks to unearth and discover gospel stars aged 16 years and above. A call for entries will be launched on 10 June and aspiring gospel singers should visit the African Gospel Foundation's Facebook page as well as the Music In Africa website for more details.

Prizes

The winner will get R25 000 ($1 500), a one-album record deal as well as a full year of publicity, branding and marketing with a reputable PR company. The winner will also get a legal contract with an entertainment law firm for the same period, and perform at the Crown Gospel Music Awards and the Trumpet Africa Gospel Music Awards.

Auditions

The first phase of the talent search will be launched via WhatsApp from 10 June to 10 July, with contestants sending a solo or a capella video clip via the messaging platform. Shortlisted entries will be informed via email and social media, and a panel of judges will screen the entries as they are submitted.

Phase 2 of Gospel Dreams Africa talent search will see the announcement of the top 100 contestants via social media. The 100 contestants will be given a task to do through another clip and send it via email. At this stage, the organisers will open the voting lines with details on how to vote.

Phase 3 will include the elimination stage where 50 contestants will be asked to create another clip, with a twist, an send it through. The public will then vote for the top 20 contestants, after which 10 finalists will enter the semis and get training and coaching from various gospel greats who will be confirmed in due course. This will include voice coaching, branding and other key elements of becoming a successful artist.

The grand finale will feature five finalists competing for top honours. They will also get to perform alongside big names in the gospel music industry.

Watch the Gospel Dreams Africa promotional video here.