Vusi Nova on judging the continent’s biggest reality competition

IF THERE is one thing that can’t be denied, it is the limitless amount of talent Africa has.

From the north to the south and everywhere in between, Africa has produced some of the biggest stars and continues to influence international music, cinema, television and literature now more than ever.

And one such show that aims to add names to the ever-growing list of talented Africans is Amazing Voices.

The show is a pan-african singing reality competition in which 10 unsigned groups from three genres take to the stage to captivate audiences and judges and claim their $100 000 (about R1.4 million) prize money and be crowned Africa’s Amazing Voices.

On the Amazing Voices stage, battles are fought and won first by the decisions groups make, and then by the performances they put up.

The judging panels include musical stars from across the continent. South Africa’s Vusi Nova, Evelle of Nigeria, Kenya’s Filah, Zimbabwean star Ammara and Trig from Ghana.

Straight off the plane from his getaway in the Maldives, the awardwinning Nova spoke to Insider about his involvement in the show and what he hopes it does for the continent and the music industry.

“I was a selector in season one and I actually really wanted to be a judge.

“So when season two came around and I was asked to be a judge, saying ‘yes’ was easy.

“I went to school for music, and I think I have a lot to contribute and it’s so beautiful to just discover talent,” he said.

Describing his judging style, Nova said being honest was the best approach.

“I’m brutally honest with contestants.

“If the performance was incredible I say that and if it was rubbish I will say so.

“My fellow judges and I have created great friendships among ourselves.

“We were shooting in Sun City for the longest time, we respect each other but of course there are moments on the show where we disagree”.

The As’phelelanga hitmaker said that one of the best things about filming season two has been the step-up in the talent on the show.

“This season the talent is amazing. “The contestants came in well prepared and know what they want, which is so great.”

With a continent as diverse as Africa, Amazing Voices showcases the diversity, culture which allows viewers to increase their knowledge of the continent.

It also showcases just how much talent there is in the continent.

“We have talent for days and what I think needs to happen is that we need to start helping each other.

“I feel like most people in the industry are always trying to keep those trying to get in, out and that’s terrible because the cake is big enough for everyone.

“Hence I love seeing collaborations happen between us Africans.

“That’s how we help each other,” he said.

Nova released his latest album this year, Ngumama, and it’s a long walk from his first offering, Walk Into Light.

He admits that his journey has been a tough one.

“I struggled, but with all of that I have no regrets because I learnt along the way and I’m grateful for my journey and the steps I’ve had to take to get to the top,” he said.

Nova said that he hopes viewers watch Amazing Voices and see themselves in contestants and find inspiration to follow their dreams.

“People on this show are from all walks of life and I hope people watch and decide to take that first step to their dreams.”

Amazing Voices airs Sunday on Mzansi Magic and Mzansi Wethu simulcast at 5pm.