MORE THAN 45 underground women artistes have hirtherto submitted applications for a sole opportunity to work with local label Kikac Music Ltd. 

The music label started receiving entries only two weeks ago, on June 2, with the deadline set for June 20. The target age group is 18-25.

Founded by three men (Muhamed Kintu, Elijah Kalisimbi and Jean Claude Uhujimfura) from whose names the label derives its name, KIKAC is the music label to which singers Mico The Best and Danny Vumbi are signed.

The objective of the initiative, Uhujimfura said, "is to identify, nurture, empower and accompany a talented female artiste, who is currently unknown, on their journey to stardom.”

To join the competition, dubbed ‘The Next Diva - Indi Mbuto’, a female artiste needs to record herself singing in a one-minute video and submit it via an email address, kikacltdorg@gmail.com, or  social media platforms (kikacmusicofficial on Instagram or KIKAC MUSIC on Facebook).

"We are strictly looking for hidden talents out there,” Uhujimfura insisted.

The winner will be supported in music production, video production, song promotion and everything else that artistes need to grow in their career, he said.

With the eventual winner set to be announced later this month, the music label says they intend to subsequently sign a five-year contract with the girl.

They are expected to hit the road running, with the song and its video set to be released on July 15. 

"We will train her on matters related to working with fellow artistes, how to talk to the media and other key aspects of a successful music career,” said Uhujimfura.

The second edition of the competition is planned two years later, he added.

Asked why they limited themselves to just one female artiste, Uhujimfura said, "We don’t want to promise heaven on earth, we are committing to something we are sure we can achieve.”

He said KIKAC’s record speaks for itself, with their current artistes’ songs such as ‘Igare’ and ‘Umunamba’ (Mico The Best) ‘Abana Babi’ (Danny Vubi) among the big hits in the country in recent years.

He added that they could also extend some form of support to more talented applicants but in a limited way.

Pressed about talented boys, he said that they are also welcome to KIKAC. "They can come straight to our studios and we could end up supporting them if they are truly talented.”

The music label first announced the contest last year only to call it off due to Covid-19 pandemic. "We have decided to do it online because we couldn’t wait any longer,” said Uhujimfura.