The journey
Four stages, one sound
Every contestant moves through four structured stages — each one assigned, coached, judged and recorded. The journey is designed to develop, not just to select.
01
Auditions
Discovery and selection
The doorway into EMERGE. Registered contestants present themselves before the panel for the first time, and the field is narrowed to those ready to be developed.
Expectations
- Perform one gospel song of your choice, unaccompanied or with minimal backing
- Present a short introduction of yourself and your ministry
- Be available for a brief interview with the panel
Judging criteria
- Vocal ability
- Musicality
- Teachability
- Stage presence
Rules
- Registration must be completed and paid before the auditions
- Contestants must be 16 years or older
- Arrive at least one hour before your audition slot
02
The Discipline
Songs assigned to your voice
Contestants perform songs selected according to their vocal abilities. This stage tests obedience to direction, control and technical growth under coaching.
Expectations
- Perform the song assigned to you by the musical directors
- Attend all scheduled rehearsals and coaching sessions
- Work with the live band during technical rehearsal
Judging criteria
- Vocal agility
- Vocal stability
- Diction
- Interpretation
Rules
- Song changes are only permitted by the musical director
- Missing two rehearsals results in disqualification
03
The Heritage
African sound and identity
Contestants explore African musical styles such as Fuji, Juju, Apala and Afro-inspired gospel — carrying the message in the sound of their own soil.
Expectations
- Perform a gospel piece rooted in an assigned African style
- Work with the instrumentalists on rhythm and syncopation
- Reflect the culture respectfully in presentation
Judging criteria
- Syncopation and rhythm
- Relationship with instrumentalists
- Cultural interpretation
- Audience engagement
Rules
- Styles are assigned by ballot
- Costume must be approved by the production team
04
The Sound
Your own song
Contestants perform an original song written by themselves. This is where a contestant stops interpreting and starts releasing their own sound.
Expectations
- Submit an original composition with lyrics ahead of the deadline
- Perform the song live with the house band
- Defend the message and inspiration of the song
Judging criteria
- Originality
- Lyrics and message
- Spiritual depth
- Performance
Rules
- The song must be entirely original and unreleased
- Plagiarism results in immediate disqualification
Registration closed
The voices are in — now it's your turn
Registration for this edition has closed. Follow the contestants through every stage and vote for your favourite.