Ghana’s search for contemporary urban artists returns with season 3

Stars of the Future, Ghana’s answer to American Idol, continues to be one of the most relevant and well followed talent hunts in the country. After a triumphant first season, Charter House the producers of TV reality series realised the huge demand for urban music in Ghana and therefore returned with relative success in season two.

Justice Nhyira Owen won season two but unlike his predecessor, Irene Logan, he is yet to make an impact a year after winning the competition. Justice is a very talented artist but perhaps his dilemma is that, as a gospel inclined musician it is difficult to have a successful urban gospel album because Ghanaians love their traditional gospel music.

Anyway, if the talent revealed at the recent launch of Season 3 is anything to go by then for the next 10 weeks, Ghanaians would be in for a rollercoaster ride of pure fun and entertainment. Although nerves got the better of most of the contestants, all 12 of them were promising as one after the other they gave decent performances at the main auditorium of the National Theatre. After weeks of careful and rigorous auditions and screening, five young guys and 7 ladies were selected.

They will battle it out week in week out for public votes in order to win the ultimate prize of an international recording deal, a brand new car and of course the fame that comes with being a ‘star’. However they would have to impress the judges as well because they carry 30 percent of the decision process.

Everyone’s favourite judge, Nana King couldn’t return for season 3 because he is currently promoting his new album; surely his blunt opinions and “Po-po” endorsements would be missed. Replacing him would be radio personality, Doreen Andoh who promises to bring her ‘divacity’, vivacity and keen sense of music to bear on this season’s contest. Mama of the team, Bibie Brew and Zap Mallet both return as regular judges. Also returning as host this season, is Chris Attoh.

It may be too early to tell the best contestants after just the launch but at least four of them stood out for me and if they continue with such poise, confidence and most importantly, display more of such talent, they could easily be the top 4 after the 10 weeks of competition. Each week, the contestant with the least number of votes will be eliminated from the competition.

Stars of the Future has become a force to reckon with in Ghana’s growing urban music scene with Ghana Music Award nominations and a win for season one winners Irene Logan and Jane Awindor.