Lonestar Cell MTN, Liberia’s foremost mobile GSM company, recently unveiled the 4th edition of the MTN Y’ello Star musical competition, a notable talent hunt aimed at uncovering and promoting exceptional musical talents from across the country. The launch event took place in Monrovia on September 19, 2024, and has been highly anticipated as an annual celebration of Liberia’s rich musical landscape. This competition has progressively served as a significant platform not just for showcasing talents but also as a cultural touchstone reflecting the evolving music scene in Liberia.
The theme for this year’s competition, “Your Stage, Your Story,” is a call for musicians to express their individuality and creativity through their art. It encourages participants to weave their personal narratives into their performances, thereby fostering a deeper connection with audiences. The initiative is designed to promote self-expression and empowerment among aspiring musicians, making music not just a means of entertainment, but also a medium for storytelling and personal development. This year’s theme aligns perfectly with MTN’s broader commitment to community engagement and cultural promotion in Liberia.
In a move to enhance inclusivity and accessibility, the MTN Y’ello Star competition will feature a hybrid audition format. This includes both in-person auditions and opportunities for online submissions, allowing a diverse array of talents from all corners of Liberia to participate. The auditions are scheduled to occur across various counties, ensuring that this incredible opportunity reaches aspiring artists everywhere, not just those who can travel to major urban centers. By providing these platforms, Lonestar Cell MTN reaffirms its commitment to democratizing access to the arts.
During the launch, notable figures from Lonestar Cell MTN shared their insights on the competition. Abigail Nufeatalai, the Brand Manager, emphasized the invaluable skills participants gain, stating that the competition’s true reward transcends material prizes like cars—it’s about personal growth and honing artistic talents. Jonathan Baker, the project lead, echoed this sentiment by highlighting the enthusiasm behind bringing unknown artists into the spotlight. These comments resonate with the overarching vision of the competition, which aims to elevate underground artists and assist them in their journey towards recognition.
Rohit Narayan, the Chief Marketing Officer, also underscored the significance of this musical competition within Liberia’s cultural framework. He expressed excitement about guiding participants through their artistic journeys, reiterating MTN’s commitment to empowering them to embrace the competition’s theme fully. The format will culminate in live shows broadcast nationwide, allowing audiences to witness the rise of new talents and engage with a celebration of Liberian culture. This approach not only entertains but also fosters a sense of national pride.
Finally, the official MTN Y’ello Star website will serve as a central hub for aspiring artists to learn more about the auditions and submission processes. It provides essential details regarding dates and locations for auditions, making the competition transparent and accessible. Lonestar Cell MTN has extended an invitation to all Liberians to rally around this initiative, celebrating the wealth of musical talent that their country has to offer. As the countdown begins to the competition’s kick-off, anticipation builds for what promises to be a remarkable showcase of Liberia’s artistic abilities and stories.
