Krönlein kid wins big
Hailing from the dusty streets of Keetmanshoop, Stephanus started his music career at the tender age of 11.
12 May 2021 | Art and Entertainment
Elizabeth Joseph
KEETMANSHOOP
A son of the soil, 20-year-old Rodward Stephanus – also known as Roda – was proclaimed the winner of the first edition of talent competition The Search Namibia on 27 April.
The Search Namibia is a reality TV show aimed at creating exposure for new talent.
During the final episode of the show, the top five contestants went head-to-head for the overall prize – a whopping N$100 000.
Hailing from the dusty streets of Keetmanshoop’s Krönlein, Stephanus started his music career at the tender age of 11.
“My older brother started writing lyrics for me and introduced me to songs with his fellow Tabakan group members. Over the years, I've started writing my own lyrics after learning how to put together different rhymes and how to switch flows, just like my brother Guame Stephanus aka Likerish,” he said.
“When I was confident enough, my mother showed me the poster for The Search and I have not looked back since," Stephanus added.
His music style is a combination of Afrikaans hip-hop with hints of English.
Big dreams
The 'Dankbaar' rapper has big dreams, saying: "It's not about the money for me, even though I need it to help me pursue my dreams. I just want exposure, more doors to open, and for the right ears and eyes to witness my gift”.
Stephanus was welcomed home by a large crowd of proud friends, fans and family. The group paraded through the streets of Keetmanshoop in celebration of his success.
Organisers Cume Mooin, Natasha Andries and Romario Kahuika hoped the community would show up in numbers, and show up they did.
Meanwhile, Stephanus’ mother Mandy, who is his number one supporter, said they are extremely excited and overwhelmed.
"It's a true honour and a blessing at the same time. This was unexpected but I knew he will make it to the top, considering where he started and where he is now.
“I'm just happy he is living his dreams. I'm sure doors will now open so that the youth can be empowered. There is a lot of talent out there," she said.
There's a lot to expect from the 'Levels' artist in the coming months. He has hinted at a hit track sporting some features.
KEETMANSHOOP
A son of the soil, 20-year-old Rodward Stephanus – also known as Roda – was proclaimed the winner of the first edition of talent competition The Search Namibia on 27 April.
The Search Namibia is a reality TV show aimed at creating exposure for new talent.
During the final episode of the show, the top five contestants went head-to-head for the overall prize – a whopping N$100 000.
Hailing from the dusty streets of Keetmanshoop’s Krönlein, Stephanus started his music career at the tender age of 11.
“My older brother started writing lyrics for me and introduced me to songs with his fellow Tabakan group members. Over the years, I've started writing my own lyrics after learning how to put together different rhymes and how to switch flows, just like my brother Guame Stephanus aka Likerish,” he said.
“When I was confident enough, my mother showed me the poster for The Search and I have not looked back since," Stephanus added.
His music style is a combination of Afrikaans hip-hop with hints of English.
Big dreams
The 'Dankbaar' rapper has big dreams, saying: "It's not about the money for me, even though I need it to help me pursue my dreams. I just want exposure, more doors to open, and for the right ears and eyes to witness my gift”.
Stephanus was welcomed home by a large crowd of proud friends, fans and family. The group paraded through the streets of Keetmanshoop in celebration of his success.
Organisers Cume Mooin, Natasha Andries and Romario Kahuika hoped the community would show up in numbers, and show up they did.
Meanwhile, Stephanus’ mother Mandy, who is his number one supporter, said they are extremely excited and overwhelmed.
"It's a true honour and a blessing at the same time. This was unexpected but I knew he will make it to the top, considering where he started and where he is now.
“I'm just happy he is living his dreams. I'm sure doors will now open so that the youth can be empowered. There is a lot of talent out there," she said.
There's a lot to expect from the 'Levels' artist in the coming months. He has hinted at a hit track sporting some features.
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