MTN Pulse, MTN's exclusive offering for under 25s, is thrilled to announce a new partnership with SlikourOnLife. Together, they are launching 'MTN Pulse Virals,' an upcoming TV show aimed at discovering the next music superstar. The show started airing on Channel O & Mzansi Magic from December 14, 2023.
Hosted by Siya Metane, also known as Slikour, this unique music show will focus on accelerating rising online viral stars’ careers and equipping contestants with the essential business knowledge needed in the music industry. This crucial element is one that is often overlooked and can lead to even the most talented of artists’ careers faltering.
“SlikourOnLife (as a music publication) receives an overwhelming number of submissions from up-and-coming musicians who are trying to break into the game, and we cover those we can. Meanwhile, MTN is renowned for platforms that deliver access to entertainment at scale and can offer innovative ways to assist emerging artists,” says Slikour.
“Being an up-and-coming artist is not easy and it may feel like you are shooting in the dark. We can’t save everyone, but if we can provide stepping stones for a few artists, we have done our part. As part of our continued dedication to supporting emerging talent, we have partnered up with MTN Pulse to bring you ‘MTN Pulse Virals’, a music talent show that looks at more than just artistic ability, but the overall traits that make a star such as image, the hunger to upskill, x-factor and the discipline required. Artists will go on a boot camp where they prove their star quality and their ability to go viral.”
"When the SlikourOnLife team approached us about this partnership, we were impressed. For example, it was astounding to learn that the music publishing industry in South Africa generates an annual turnover of R750 million, yet many artists still don't grasp the fundamental principles of collecting publishing royalties," says Seun Soladoye, General Manager for Prepaid Segment at MTN South Africa.
"As MTN Pulse, we've always been guided by a vision to provide South Africa's youth with opportunities to secure internships, mentorships, or other skills development in various fields, including fashion, food, content creation, and music. As music is a key element in making your summer memorable, and with MTN Pulse facilitating your journey to the best experiences this summer, MTN Pulse Virals will empower South Africa's next viral sensation with the tools to skip from unknown to icons.
Over six episodes, featuring eight contestants, four celebrity appearances, a music media platform partnership, and a grand prize valued at R200 000.00, all broadcast on Channel O & Mzansi Magic, MTN Pulse Virals will be a must-watch for all music fans.
Following a rigorous selection process by the SlikourOLife team, including Lady Du, and the MTN Pulse vetting committee, reviewing hundreds of social media entries, the final selection of contestants is:
Zamazitha Mnqandi (scumie)
Thabiso Tshabalala (Jemapelle James)
Mpumelelo Nosiphiwo Dube (Phiwo)
Nombulelo Nokukhanya Cheryl Zondi (Cheryl Zondi)
Ayanda Gwalisa (Aylo)
Xhanti Mtwana (Mtwana)
Lee-Anne Swarts (Lee-Soulaé)
Mikhale Jones
The MTN Pulse Virals standing judging panel of Slikour and Lady Du will also be joined by celebrity guests such as Yanga Chief, Ayanda MVP, DJ PH, Focalistic, Tresor, Majorsteez, Phil Mphela, Leratolicious to help mentor these rising stars, on the ins and outs of the music industry.
Even if you're just a viewer, keep an eye on social media by following and engaging with the hashtag #MTNPulseVirals as you watch and interact with all the excitement and talent on our screens for some more exciting opportunities.