Malawian artist Joe Kellz emerged winner and walked away with $10 000 (about K10.9 million) cash prize, a recording deal worth $50 000 (K54.7 million) after outclassing 15 contestants that enlisted for the My Booth regional music competition.

On Sunday evening, at the Radisson Blu Lusaka, Zambia, the moment belonged to the Malawian during the grand finale which featured five participants Joe Kellz,  his compatriot Chisomo Chimoto and Zambia’s Evance Vic Ndalama, Roy The Songster as well as Zimbabwean Kudzie, who came in as a wildcard, made the final list.

The Moyo creator failed to pinpoint what exactly made him win the competition, saying he only tried to give his best just like any other finalist. 

In an interview yesterday, Joe Kellz said the competition was tough because of the quality of participants. He admitted that he did not expect to reach the finals.

“It is the greatest feeling ever. It has been a tough run. To come out as winner is really amazing. I thank God and all Malawians for the support they gave me. Without them I would not have achieved this feat,” he said in an interview immediately after being announced winner.

The 27-year-old artist  saluted the organisers for what he described as a well-structured competition which brought out a unique music experience that every artist craves for.

Joe Kellz, real name Kelvin Jonathan Pangani, has seen his star rise since he embarked on a solo career from the now-defunct Zathu Band after a three-year stint with the group. Apart from his solo projects, the artist has done collaborations with other artists such as Macelba and Skeffa Chimoto.

He said: “I have been working hard only that resources have been a limiting factor. With the record deal, I am sure good projects will come through. I cannot say much now, but things will get better.”

Joe Kellz said he is inspired by the role  music plays in providing healing, entertainment and information. Some of the songs the artist has done include Undiuze, Moyo, Ngozi and Mpweya.

Organisers of the competition, Pan African music label Elation Entertainment of Zambia, described the competition as epic.

Elation Entertainment chief executive officer Sokwani Chilembo said the performances displayed by the participants were amazing.

“The guys have shown that they deserve to represent the region, particularly the winner Joe Kellz. He is going to be our brand carrier for the region. Now that he has won, he has developed a following within the region and we will capitalise on that,” he said.

Chilembo said Joe Kellz will release his first single under the Elation Entertainment today.

The competition had 15 contestants, five each from Zambia, Malawi and Zimbabwe. Apart from Joe Kellz and Chimoto, Malawi was also represented by Sindi Uja Ndine, Vanessa Nalikungwi and Alipo Mpita.

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