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Using music to navigate life

Using music to navigate life

Stanley Vezepangamua Manuel (22), better known by his electrifying stage name, Stakes Boy, started his journey into music from the heart. What started out as a hobby evolved into navigation of his life, finding purpose and meaning in every beat he made.

He says it wasn’t until his talent was recognised by others that his passion took off in a professional direction.

“Balancing school and music is far from easy, but through faith and perseverance, I found a way. My passion for music motivates me each day. I take immense joy in crafting melodies from everyday words, particularly love words, lyrics,” said Manuel.

Stakes Boy was born and raised in Opuwo, in Kunene region, where he attended primary school to Grade 8 before moving to Okahandja Senior Secondary School, completing his Grade 12 (A-levels) in 2022. 

“My musical journey began in Grade 10 (2020) while staying in the hostel at Okahandja Secondary School. I frequently free-styled and covered various songs. Without access to a proper studio, I used the app “Voloco” to record my vocals directly on my phone,” he said.

Eventually, he recorded his first studio track, “No Pain No Gain (Njenje),” followed by several other early releases. 

“In 2023, I connected with the talented producer Mr. Legendary on the Beat. Together, we released “Etjari,” which quickly became a hit, garnering impressive traction on YouTube. This collaboration opened the doors for additional projects — both solo tracks and features with artists such as Bale Bale, Ozil Outlaw, Zemii Boy, Vangxa Katuuo, Costa DLH, and more,” he said.

Manuel stated: “I am both a vocalist and songwriter, working primarily within the disco genre. My biggest inspiration comes from OneBlood, as I aspire to collaborate with them in the future. I remain deeply grateful to my family and friends for their unwavering support. They have stood by me in my most challenging moments.”

Manuel strongly believes in the principle of education, hence he is fully committed to school while doing music. He is now in his third year at the Namibian University of Science and Technology, pursuing an Agriculture degree.

“My passion for music motivates me each day. I take immense joy in crafting melodies from everyday words, particularly love words and lyrics. People often ask, ‘Who is the person I dedicate these love songs to?’ and I tell them I sing from emotion,” he said.

Manuel believes music is a powerful way for expressing heartbreak, joy, love, life experiences, tributes to lost loved ones, and it also serves to educate or simply make people dance. His track Ove Omuua recently reached a million views on YouTube, a major milestone for any Namibian musician.

“To anyone who wants to pursue a music career, my advice is to be patient and consistent because it takes time to grow. And not to forget, never be discouraged by people because they will always talk regardless of what you do. 

So, you don’t have to prove yourself to anyone, just to you. The aim is to survive and make mama proud,” said the cheerful composer.

-psiririka@nepc.com.na