UPCOMING Zimbabwean musician Valentine Nokutenda Hangazha, better known as Valeen X, came second in the annual international Music for water contest that seeks to draw attention to the importance of water and sanitation issues.
Valeen X was beaten to the top spot by Nigerian musician Theophilus Onyeke while Nino Chikviladze from the Republic of Georgia came third in the global contest whose winners are selected by music industry judges and by public votes.
For coming second, Valeen X will get a one-year distribution deal from Germany-based Grand Mountain International Records.
Valeen X, a Zim Hip Hop and R&B artiste, is confident that his success in the annual international Music for water contest will propel him to stardom.
“Earning second position in this significant competition truly showed me that my talent can be part of something greater than just me.
“This achievement has made me and my country visible internationally as far as raising awareness on water challenges is concerned. I am confident that my successes will open doors for my career in the international music industry. It is a win for all Zimbabweans,” Valeen X told the Daily News.
The young Zimbabwean artiste took part in the competition with the help of his Zimbabwean music label EthelMusiQConnect.
“My manager Ruvimbo Kadyevu helped me to write the song and was instrumental in the whole process of making the song great,” said Valeen X, who is currently working on a debut album.
The Music for Water contest is run by a United States of America-based nonprofit organisation called JB Dondolo founded by Zimbabwean, Lumbie Mlambo.
“Music for Water is open to all musicians. The songs are judged by music industry judges and by public votes. The top five songs are shortlisted. Then we have a gala to announce the top three winners who get a one-time distribution deal with Grand Mountain International Records (G.M.I.R) – international record label.
“The first prize winner’s song becomes our theme song for the year in addition to the distribution deal. This is a fun initiative that unites people throughout the world with music,” said Mlambo.
