Starting today, the eleven contestants of the Primus Guma Guma Superstar music contest will embark on the most competitive phase of the Bralirwa sponsored music show.Riderman, Kamichi, Micho Prosper, Eric Senderi, Danny Nanone, Fireman, Bull Dog, Knowless, Dream Boys, Christopher and Urban Boys will perform at Amahoro National Stadium parking lot in front of a panel of three judges. This is the first time the contestants will perform in front of judges. Nairobi-based Burundian star Kidum will lead a panel of four judges who will include Canada-based Rwandan musician Mighty Popo Murigande, Aaron Nitunga and Aimable Twahirwa, who are all seasoned music stars and teachers.The 11 contestants have been undergoing intense rehearsals.Apart from Kamichi who has been sick, the rest of the contestants have been busy polishing their on-stage skills.The first phase of Guma Guma, which included road shows in Rusizi, Nyanza, Nyamagabe, Ngoma, Karongi and Gicumbi was not demanding for the contestants since they performed using playback.Nevertheless, they used the road shows to showcase their might, with some of the contestants proving to be bigger than others.Tension can already be felt among the contestants. The next part will prove to be a test of character for all the contestants. The ‘live’ part has no room for errors, since those who don’t meet expectations will be eliminated.“For the first time it feels like a music competition. As a music lover I will enjoy this part because only those who can do music properly will progress. It will not depend on who will campaign more than the others,” says Nadine Umurerwa, a university student.It is the first time Bralirwa is bringing in judges, a move which has been applauded for bringing something new to the contest.Following several upcountry road shows, the contestants have taken a one-week break to rest and rehearse for today’s show. This coming weekend the contestants will perform in Muhanga before heading north to Musanze on July 13. On July 20, Guma Guma will head to Rubavu to wind up the countryside live shows.From July 20 to 26, the remaining contestants will be undergoing intensive rehearsals and radio campaigns before the last eviction set for July 27 at Kigali Serena Hotel. The winner will be crowned on August 10.The winner will take home Rwf 24million and a trophy, among other things.
