‘Ou Stakes’ releases 11th album

Fans of Stanley ‘Ou Stakes’ Hamaseb can look forward to more exhilarating hits from him, as one of the chart-topping artists in the Ma/gaisa genre recently released his 11th album ‘≠Noa ≠uirab ta ≠gâ’ (He who hits enters).

The album features artists such as TBoz & Steika, Kinzo and songstress Lettie. Hamaseb wrote 11 of the songs on the 14-track album, while TBoz & Steika, Kinzo and Pule co-wrote the remaining three.

“I have been touring and recording with these artists for many years now. We are familiar with each other’s working ethics. They are all experienced and highly creative professionals. All of them were vital forces of positive energy. The creative vibe was amazing. I think the lockdown afforded us all the time to explore and intensify the creativity within us as artists. We were all eager to just let it all out and this album was just the right opportunity to release it all,” the ‘Bobo’ hitmaker said.

This is, however, the first time Ou Stakes teamed up with Lettie. He described collaborating with her as an honour and a memorable experience he will always treasure. “She is an amazing singer. She is very modest and easy-going person,” he said.

The production team consists of producers Nelson Staika Hangara from Coastal Beatz and Patrick P-Flat Thaniseb from Desert Tunes.

Ou Stakes said the album’s title is derived from the traditional game ‘amagus’ (dodgeball), where if a ball thrown by an opponent hits you before it hits the ground, on any part of your body, you are out.

“The album title loosely translates that the opponent who is able to toss the other one out enters to claim space. It symbolises the competitive nature of life and how situations and circumstances can change. For example, we recently had elections where some parties tossed out the opponents to claim the seats. Another example is relationships. If you don’t take care of your partner then someone will come in and claim your space,” the Swakopmund-born singer said.

The Damara Punch artist’s music is well known for its powerful messages and this time is no different.

His latest project deals with various topics such as romance, the impact of social media on relationships, gender-based violence and self-improvement. Fans can also look forward to a tribute song in remembrance of the late legendary Ma/gaisa singer Timotheus Duwe, also known as ‘King Phura’, a close friend of Ou Stakes.

“This album is different from my previous ones. It’s an artistic twist incorporated with elements of Afro-pop. Together with the producers and co-writers, we were able to bring out catchy hooks and choruses, while also introducing individual sounds. I wanted a fresh vibe. Something that is energetic and relevant with a broader appeal,” he said.

“I have been listening to music from artists like Yo Maps from Zambia and Malawi’s Namadingo. They inspired me greatly.”

Ou Stakes said he loved music from a tender age and it has always carried him through bad times in life.

“I do believe this album is one of my finest works. Feedback from fans and music peers is that it shows versatility and that I have matured and evolved as an artist,” he said.

He released his debut album, ‘Ta di ti /namsa’, under Welwitschia Music Production in 2005.

The artist, who has been in the industry for more than 15 years now, said the biggest low across the country is piracy, which affects CD sales and the income of artists.

“We are still struggling to have local stations play more local music, but one just has to have positive energy. Be grateful to God for your blessings and always find the joy. That’s the way I look forward to each day,” Ou Stakes said.

For more information or bookings contact 081 337 6519, 081 404 4243 or email stakesboy87@gmail.com

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.