Neslow in the run to be ‘America’s Next Top Hitmaker’ Singer, songwriter and producer Obed Kotokeni, known as Neslow has joined the much anticipated ‘America’s Next Top Hitmaker’ competition. The aim of the competition is to find one exceptionally talented musician, band or artist to head to New York City to perform live at the 2025 Global Citizen Festival for more than 60 000 attendees, appear in the iconic pages of Rolling Stone magazine, and take home US$50 000. The artist, who has relocated to the United States, is now in the number six spot. Speaking to Unwrap online this week, the artist expressed gratitude towards those who voted for him so far. “Honestly, being number six on ‘America’s Next Top Hitmaker’ feels like a blessing, but it’s also a responsibility. For me personally, it’s humbling I’m just a kid from Namibia chasing a dream. But for Namibia, I hope it signals that our stories, our sound, and our spirit matters on a global stage. This isn’t just my moment it’s Namibia’s moment too,” he said. With an illustrious career spanning over 19 years, Neslow has not only crafted unforgettable choruses that have driven chart-topping hits, but he has also written songs for many artists. He has released two albums so far. Some of his popular releases include ‘Oluhepo’, ‘Kala Wakotoka Anthem’ (featuring Sunny Boy), and ‘Kotokeni (Wisdom)’. On where his inspiration comes from, Neslow said representing Namibia was his main motivation. “This competition gave me the platform to test myself in a space that’s different and intense but also full of opportunity. I wanted to represent Namibia with something real, not just for hype, but from the heart. There are some serious artists in this competition. It’s not just about talent it’s about resilience, creativity and being true to your sound. “Everyone here has a unique voice, but I stay grounded by knowing who I am and where I come from,” he added. Hesitant to provide detailed information about his upcoming projects, Neslow said he is currently wrapping up a new EP compromising Afro-fusion, soul and some experimental sounds he has been developing in America. “I’m also working on a visual project that tells a story of identity, journey and purpose. Every track is personal. I want people to feel something real, not just hear a catchy hook,” he said. While working on the upcoming EP, Neslow said being a bridge for Namibian sound to travel across the continent is his long-term goal. “Whether that’s through collaborations, touring with Namibian artists, or featuring local talent on my international projects. Namibia has soul, depth and rhythm the world hasn’t fully experienced yet,” he said. To boost the quality of the upcoming EP, Neslow said he had a chance to link up with a few international producers and writers. “I won’t name-drop too much, but I’ve sat in rooms with people who’ve worked with some of the top names. The goal is to learn, grow and keep the integrity of my sound while adapting to new environments. Namibia is home, and that will never change. I might be here now building bridges, but I’ll always come back home to give back,” Neslow noted. The post Neslow in the run to be ‘America’s Next Top Hitmaker’ appeared first on The Namibian.

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