When you hear “voice-over artist,” what comes to mind are those impossibly deep, butter-smooth tones such as the likes of Jeff Koinange and Johnson Mwakazi who we grew up listening to and even mimicking.
While these legends have been making waves a new voice has been quietly clearing its throat, ready to take centre stage. And no, it’s not your neighbour practising their Morgan Freeman in the shower.
Edward Nyanaro, Nairobi’s very own entertainment entrepreneur and voice virtuoso, has just been nominated for not one, but two prestigious awards at the third African Podcast and Voice Awards (APVA) 2024, set for September 28. He is up for Best Documentary Performance and Best TV Promo in the Voiceover category.
Now, you might be wondering, “What in the name of Kavirondo Tax Payers is APVA?”
The Association of African Podcasters and Voice Artists [APVA] is a community-driven organisation that seeks to discover, amplify, and celebrate African audio and voice creatives. This includes podcasters, spoken-word artists and voice artists. APVA seeks to shine a spotlight on Africa’s unsung heroes of the audio world.
We’re talking about those magical voices that convince you to buy everything from toothpaste to car insurance. So yes, it’s kind of a big deal.
The theme for this year’s awards is ‘King of The Game’.
No, it’s not about who can do the best impersonation of a lion roaring in the Maasai Mara (though I’d pay good money to see that contest). It’s all about celebrating the creativity, resilience, and leadership of African audio creatives.
When not busy collecting awards and nominations, Edward Nyanaro spends his hours as the founder and Casting Director of 254 Talent Management. He also puts his voice talent to use as a screen actor, Master of Ceremonies (MC), and is a commercial model.
Kenya has made waves in the world of voice artistry, with the likes of Adelle Onyango and Wakio Mzenge bagging APVAs in 2022.
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