Greatest 2018 tjil moments
Reviewing the year that was… and what a year it was!
It is safe to say that 2018 has been a less exciting year compared to 2017. Everyone stuck in their own lanes, and very minimal drama which was good for entertainers. Almost everyone honoured their commitments except the few who promised to release projects but never did so. The year 2018 was definitely a year of breaking boundaries and comfort zones as we saw more local productions being premiered, a whole lot designers coming out with great stuff. We also saw a whole lot more festivals that aimed to uplift the entertainment industry, however, many of them turned out to be drinking parties. tjil reviewed the year that was and also looked into the future for whom to lookout for next year, in the form of awards.
Hero of the year
Before his departure, Jomolizo was carving a name for himself in the music industry and he was well on his way to becoming a firm favourite. The singer was also one of the most vocal advocates against piracy which led to a lot of jukebox owners and the public preaching the same message. We thank you for your music and your efforts in combating one of the biggest evils in the music industry. May your soul rest in power!
Comebacks
This year we saw a lot of oldies make great comebacks. Some came with no growth and the same struggles whilst others came back with different names doing different genres and making hits. Some noticeable artists include Killa B who performed his hit tracks like Eliko at the Simply You Fashion and Lifestyle Awards show. The singer promised that he is back for good and ready to reclaim his throne. We pray this time it’s for real.
Most consistent
This year seemed so long and some people wonder how certain names remained consistent regardless of the economic hardships everyone faced. Songbirds Lioness and Top Cheri have managed to maintain their relevance in the game by producing hit after hit accompanied by great visuals and they were seen at almost every event. The two have also been featured by mainstream artists. For up-and-coming artists, these ladies have won the year.
Momentous
Sunny Boy did the things this year! He made sure that he would leave 2018 with a fiancé and also popped the question in the loudest way. The Young Wild and Free singer used his performing slot at The Dogg’s final concert to ask his baby mama and long-term girlfriend to be his wife. It was the most beautiful moment. Congratulations to the love birds.
Most promising
Predicting someone’s fate is never easy but we will still give it a try. Last year we prophesied the careers of Jeiyo, Top Cheri and Salvador taking off, but only two managed to do so. This year we believe that the artists who have worked hard over the year to make a name for themselves and have shown that they are ready to make a career in the entertainment industry include Rodelio Lewis, Princelou Faragama, Vikta JuiceBoy and Filly-Zo NamWater. Do keep an ear for these guys because you will hear a lot about them in 2019.
Hustler of the year
She was awarded Best Female Artist of the Year and after that she just kept on winning. Sally Boss Madam once again proved that she lives by her boss title and that’s she all about getting her coins. Sally was able to bag deals not done in Namibia in a long while, such as partnering with the Lexus car dealership and Top Score, and went to the extent of performing in Hindi with her Indian Commission gig. Not to forget bagging more deals with Shell and Delush wines. Sally sure did a handful this year, please do take notes.
Most creative
This year we saw a lot of collaborations and creative work merging. We definitely believe that the most creative project was the Pasta Polana sitcom. The Polanas series consists of ten-minute episodes that show the humorous situations of a typical Namibian family. In the series we see the rise of up-and-coming actors launching their careers and the use of underground videographers too. It was really smart of Pasta Polana to help the creative industry by coming up with the sitcom that can be watched on TV as well as online platforms.
Potential brand
We have to give a standing ovation to local designer Zulu for thinking beyond the norm and coming up with his Namibian inspired Gweri socks. I mean we are used to seeing Hendrik Witbooi on money but on socks? That was brilliant. The designer said his happy socks tell a Namibian story and the designs are influenced by local tribes with the aim of taking Namibia to the rest of the world. Get it Zulu! Keep letting them know about us through your socks!
Most influential
This year like none before, we saw public relations agencies take big and small artists under their wing for guidance. Kudus goes to Poiyah and Alvaro media agencies for leading the pack and ensuring that local entertainers take their brands seriously, and showcasing the importance of public relations. We hope to see a lot more entertainers take their brands seriously and sell them with pride.
Corporate of the year
Finally the cries of local corporate companies not supporting the arts have been heard. We highly appreciate the Namibia Diamond Trading Company (NDTC) for leading the way in ensuring that local artists and entertainment initiatives are supported. The NDTC was the main sponsor for the Simply You Magazine Lifestyle and Fashion Awards as well as the annual Windhoek Fashion Week. We surely hope that more and especially international corporate businesses follow suit.
Go-getter
This guy pushed boundaries this year. When there seemed to be no way, he found the way and proved that hard work and determination are key ingredients for success. We give local actor, DJ and radio presenter NSK a big round of applause for going the extra mile in his activities this year. NSK went as far as waking up early on a cold morning to promote his play I Am Joe when the first night wasn’t well attended. If that is not an indication of passion and dedication then we don’t know what is.
Most marketable
Trust Paul Da Prince to represent us! This year, the singer and presenter used his networking skills which landed him the chance to be a guest presenter on DStv Supersport show, Homeground. Hosted by South African personalities Minnie Dlamini Jones and Lungile Radu, this is definitely huge achievement for Paul Da Prince and the local entertainment industry. Should we have to trust someone to represent Namibian entertainment, its Paul Da Prince yeah!
Most valued
A lot of people hate to love him but the boy is a genuine asset for local arts. EES this year made history by competing and winning the Germany X Factor as a Namibian kwaito artist. The singer did all of this wearing his Namibian-flag branded clothing and shoes. Although he got on the wrong side of social media when he suggested that 21 March become clean-up day, he managed to win the hearts and love of the public with this win. Congratulations EES. We are really proud of you.
Best initiative of the year
MTC once again proved that they are all about supporting local arts when they hosted the 081Every1Fest, a one-of-a-kind musical festival in celebration of its billion-dollar 100% population-coverage project. The festival saw local acts including Gazza, KP Illest, Sally, Oteya, Adora, and PDK, 4x4 Too Much Power and DJ sensations Afroberries perform centre stage. African artists Davido, Runtown, Heavy K, Busiswa and Jah Prayzah took the stage to give a memorable night for Namibians. We hope to see more of such events in the future. We still have a question, where are Davido’s shoes guys?
Most ambitious
Gazza really pushed boundaries. He is so goal driven that he wants make major money moves by being the first Namibian artist to hit a million views on YouTube with his song Chelete. Gazza so far has support from corporates and the public which is just goose bump stuff. So far, he has half a million views and this dream is slowly but surely becoming a reality. If you haven’t seen the video yet, please do check it out before the year ends! #GazzaMilli
Transformation of the year
Who would have thought that Lady May was capable of being a full-time gospel artist? This was one of the biggest U-turns in 2018. Lady May turned over a new leaf and now goes by the name Lady May Africa. Signed under D-Naff Entertainment, the new gospel singer so far managed to release two singles. We are anticipating your gospel album Lady may Africa.
Jill of all trades
Dillish Mathews kept ensuring her bag by getting out of her comfort zone. Not only did she keep most of her ambassadorial gigs from last year, she managed to get more gigs including that of the NBC Plus app. The ex-BBA winner whose music name is D-Money also managed to release two music videos, Lights featuring fellow Cleo Ice Queen, and Back in July which features Jay Rox. D-Money’s musical career caused a stir on social media. Keep doing you thing boo and secure your bag.
Career mentor of the year
We really have humble entertainers and they need to be admired. People like Wellem Kapenda, Himba Girl, Chelsi Shikongo, Exit, Berthold and Oteya have carried young talent and they did this without seeking validation or making noise about it. Shout out to you guys, we need more people like you.
Flop of the year
We saw things that were done in the dark come to light. May the spirits of exposing those who are doing wrong come to light in 2019. One flop of the year which is unfortunate is that off local designer Ruberto Scholtz, who sold matric students the same dress design with the excuse of the girls not being in the same town. This was regarded as tacky by the public given the fact that these kids spent so much money and wanted to look special which is why they sought a designer in the first place!
JUNE SHIMUOSHILI
Hero of the year
Before his departure, Jomolizo was carving a name for himself in the music industry and he was well on his way to becoming a firm favourite. The singer was also one of the most vocal advocates against piracy which led to a lot of jukebox owners and the public preaching the same message. We thank you for your music and your efforts in combating one of the biggest evils in the music industry. May your soul rest in power!
Comebacks
This year we saw a lot of oldies make great comebacks. Some came with no growth and the same struggles whilst others came back with different names doing different genres and making hits. Some noticeable artists include Killa B who performed his hit tracks like Eliko at the Simply You Fashion and Lifestyle Awards show. The singer promised that he is back for good and ready to reclaim his throne. We pray this time it’s for real.
Most consistent
This year seemed so long and some people wonder how certain names remained consistent regardless of the economic hardships everyone faced. Songbirds Lioness and Top Cheri have managed to maintain their relevance in the game by producing hit after hit accompanied by great visuals and they were seen at almost every event. The two have also been featured by mainstream artists. For up-and-coming artists, these ladies have won the year.
Momentous
Sunny Boy did the things this year! He made sure that he would leave 2018 with a fiancé and also popped the question in the loudest way. The Young Wild and Free singer used his performing slot at The Dogg’s final concert to ask his baby mama and long-term girlfriend to be his wife. It was the most beautiful moment. Congratulations to the love birds.
Most promising
Predicting someone’s fate is never easy but we will still give it a try. Last year we prophesied the careers of Jeiyo, Top Cheri and Salvador taking off, but only two managed to do so. This year we believe that the artists who have worked hard over the year to make a name for themselves and have shown that they are ready to make a career in the entertainment industry include Rodelio Lewis, Princelou Faragama, Vikta JuiceBoy and Filly-Zo NamWater. Do keep an ear for these guys because you will hear a lot about them in 2019.
Hustler of the year
She was awarded Best Female Artist of the Year and after that she just kept on winning. Sally Boss Madam once again proved that she lives by her boss title and that’s she all about getting her coins. Sally was able to bag deals not done in Namibia in a long while, such as partnering with the Lexus car dealership and Top Score, and went to the extent of performing in Hindi with her Indian Commission gig. Not to forget bagging more deals with Shell and Delush wines. Sally sure did a handful this year, please do take notes.
Most creative
This year we saw a lot of collaborations and creative work merging. We definitely believe that the most creative project was the Pasta Polana sitcom. The Polanas series consists of ten-minute episodes that show the humorous situations of a typical Namibian family. In the series we see the rise of up-and-coming actors launching their careers and the use of underground videographers too. It was really smart of Pasta Polana to help the creative industry by coming up with the sitcom that can be watched on TV as well as online platforms.
Potential brand
We have to give a standing ovation to local designer Zulu for thinking beyond the norm and coming up with his Namibian inspired Gweri socks. I mean we are used to seeing Hendrik Witbooi on money but on socks? That was brilliant. The designer said his happy socks tell a Namibian story and the designs are influenced by local tribes with the aim of taking Namibia to the rest of the world. Get it Zulu! Keep letting them know about us through your socks!
Most influential
This year like none before, we saw public relations agencies take big and small artists under their wing for guidance. Kudus goes to Poiyah and Alvaro media agencies for leading the pack and ensuring that local entertainers take their brands seriously, and showcasing the importance of public relations. We hope to see a lot more entertainers take their brands seriously and sell them with pride.
Corporate of the year
Finally the cries of local corporate companies not supporting the arts have been heard. We highly appreciate the Namibia Diamond Trading Company (NDTC) for leading the way in ensuring that local artists and entertainment initiatives are supported. The NDTC was the main sponsor for the Simply You Magazine Lifestyle and Fashion Awards as well as the annual Windhoek Fashion Week. We surely hope that more and especially international corporate businesses follow suit.
Go-getter
This guy pushed boundaries this year. When there seemed to be no way, he found the way and proved that hard work and determination are key ingredients for success. We give local actor, DJ and radio presenter NSK a big round of applause for going the extra mile in his activities this year. NSK went as far as waking up early on a cold morning to promote his play I Am Joe when the first night wasn’t well attended. If that is not an indication of passion and dedication then we don’t know what is.
Most marketable
Trust Paul Da Prince to represent us! This year, the singer and presenter used his networking skills which landed him the chance to be a guest presenter on DStv Supersport show, Homeground. Hosted by South African personalities Minnie Dlamini Jones and Lungile Radu, this is definitely huge achievement for Paul Da Prince and the local entertainment industry. Should we have to trust someone to represent Namibian entertainment, its Paul Da Prince yeah!
Most valued
A lot of people hate to love him but the boy is a genuine asset for local arts. EES this year made history by competing and winning the Germany X Factor as a Namibian kwaito artist. The singer did all of this wearing his Namibian-flag branded clothing and shoes. Although he got on the wrong side of social media when he suggested that 21 March become clean-up day, he managed to win the hearts and love of the public with this win. Congratulations EES. We are really proud of you.
Best initiative of the year
MTC once again proved that they are all about supporting local arts when they hosted the 081Every1Fest, a one-of-a-kind musical festival in celebration of its billion-dollar 100% population-coverage project. The festival saw local acts including Gazza, KP Illest, Sally, Oteya, Adora, and PDK, 4x4 Too Much Power and DJ sensations Afroberries perform centre stage. African artists Davido, Runtown, Heavy K, Busiswa and Jah Prayzah took the stage to give a memorable night for Namibians. We hope to see more of such events in the future. We still have a question, where are Davido’s shoes guys?
Most ambitious
Gazza really pushed boundaries. He is so goal driven that he wants make major money moves by being the first Namibian artist to hit a million views on YouTube with his song Chelete. Gazza so far has support from corporates and the public which is just goose bump stuff. So far, he has half a million views and this dream is slowly but surely becoming a reality. If you haven’t seen the video yet, please do check it out before the year ends! #GazzaMilli
Transformation of the year
Who would have thought that Lady May was capable of being a full-time gospel artist? This was one of the biggest U-turns in 2018. Lady May turned over a new leaf and now goes by the name Lady May Africa. Signed under D-Naff Entertainment, the new gospel singer so far managed to release two singles. We are anticipating your gospel album Lady may Africa.
Jill of all trades
Dillish Mathews kept ensuring her bag by getting out of her comfort zone. Not only did she keep most of her ambassadorial gigs from last year, she managed to get more gigs including that of the NBC Plus app. The ex-BBA winner whose music name is D-Money also managed to release two music videos, Lights featuring fellow Cleo Ice Queen, and Back in July which features Jay Rox. D-Money’s musical career caused a stir on social media. Keep doing you thing boo and secure your bag.
Career mentor of the year
We really have humble entertainers and they need to be admired. People like Wellem Kapenda, Himba Girl, Chelsi Shikongo, Exit, Berthold and Oteya have carried young talent and they did this without seeking validation or making noise about it. Shout out to you guys, we need more people like you.
Flop of the year
We saw things that were done in the dark come to light. May the spirits of exposing those who are doing wrong come to light in 2019. One flop of the year which is unfortunate is that off local designer Ruberto Scholtz, who sold matric students the same dress design with the excuse of the girls not being in the same town. This was regarded as tacky by the public given the fact that these kids spent so much money and wanted to look special which is why they sought a designer in the first place!
JUNE SHIMUOSHILI
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