GOSPEL artists in Namibai have been in a dilemma over the lack of awards aimed specifically at the genre. The Maranatha Africa Continental Awards (M.A.COA), is the only East African gospel award dedicated to recognsing the best performing artists.
The awards acknowledge authentic biblical worship music, and two of Namibia’s gospel artists – D-Naff and Maranatha have scored a nomination.
The vision of the organisers is to see that gospel music is recognised and spread across the world. The awards are facilitated by Global Music Revival Ministry, founded by Brian Trigga.
D-Naff has been nominated in the breakthrough male minister of the year and best music video categories for the song, ‘We Pray’, featuring Nam Gospel Artists, while Maranatha is in the breakthrough female minister of the year category for the same track.
D-Naff will compete against Cissa from Sengal, Shammah Vocals from Malawi, David Kasika from Tanzania and Kajambiya from Uganda. He said his nomination is an indication that Namibian art and sound has been noticed.
“I feel on top of the world. I am excited especially knowing that I did not enter myself. The organisers searched for the best gospel artists from all over the world by themselves and seeing my name selected brings joy to me and my company, D-Naff Entertainment. It means we are a force to reckon with.”
The ‘Tsipi Tsipi’ hit maker said the nominated song is special to him because it is from a group of Namibian singers.
“When we released the song we had a great sense that it was going to be a highlight. We teamed up and did our best and released a hit. It bought so many artists together in a special way,” he said.
D-Naff urged people with a dream to work hard to attain it.
“If you don’t dream then you don’t become. I am encouraging all dreamers out there to never stop dreaming, because that breakthrough will surely come to pass.”
Maranatha says the nomination opens doors for possible collaborations with other international gospel artists.
“The M.A.COA team heard about me through the One Gospel channel on DStv. They heard the song by Nam Gospel United and heard me sing and then searched for me. I am so honoured to be nominated and to see the international world acknowledge Namibian gospel music. I am so excited,” she said.
Vote for D-Naff and Maranatha at gusa.co.tz
@rineldamouton on social media
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