For DaveCash, the journey to becoming the first runner-up of MTN’s Next Afrobeats Star Season One was defined not by a single performance, but by resilience, discipline and an unwavering belief in his innate talent.
The Ajasa-born artiste reflected on the setbacks that shaped his journey and the opportunity that changed its course.
His first audition for MTN’s Next Afrobeats Star ended in disappointment after three judges voted against his progression. Rather than giving up, DaveCash submitted an online demo, earning a second chance that ultimately transformed his fortunes.
“When they picked me through the online submission, I told myself everybody was going to notice me. I saw it as God giving me another chance, and I knew I had to make the most of it,” he said.
That determination carried him through the competition, where he emerged as the first runner-up while developing skills that extended beyond vocal performance.
“It wasn’t just about talent anymore,” he said. “Every performance had to count because everyone around me was incredibly talented. The competition pushed me to raise my standards and give everything my best every single time.”
Beyond the stage, DaveCash says the experience reinforced the values of discipline, consistency and continuous self-improvement. Rather than measuring himself against other contestants, he remains focused on becoming better with every performance.
Raised in Ajasa community, Lagos , a community not widely known for producing mainstream music stars, the artiste hopes his journey will inspire other young people to pursue their dreams despite the odds.
“People from where I’m from tell me I’m making them proud. So it’s no longer just about me. It’s about everyone coming after me.”
Today, DaveCash is building on the momentum from MTN’s Next Afrobeats Star, growing his audience, releasing new music and pursuing bigger opportunities. His journey reflects the impact of a platform designed to discover, nurture and showcase the next generation of Afrobeats talent.