In keeping with the tradition of providing a platform for aspiring music talents to display their skills, the 2012 edition of Star Quest, Nigeria’s first and only band based music talent hunt competition/reality TV show, kicks  off  February 21, 2012.

Speaking during a media parley, Corporate Affairs Adviser, Nigerian Breweries Plc., brewers of Star  Lager Beer, Star, stated that this year’s edition will be more exciting and engaging compared to previous editions.

*KC presh, maiden winners of star quest

According to Ayeni, contestants from all over the country will be given the opportunity to become the next stars in the Nigerian music scene and win a coveted recording contract, among other attractive prizes.

Ayeni said that the winning band would get a whooping 7.5 million Naira recording contract, 3.6 million naira cash (to be shared by the six members of the winning band) as well as a brand new Minivan. He also added that the winning band will get one year guaranteed accommodation in Lagos, in addition to the unique opportunity of participating in the upcoming 2012 Star-sponsored events as performing artistes.

Ageni added that this year’s event, which will kick off with auditions from February 21 to March 1, 2012, will see music enthusiasts from all over the country converge in four cities to slug it out for a chance to display their musical prowess in Star’s Fameland..

Just like previous editions of Star Quest, the 36 finalists will mingle and bond with each other after which they would pair themselves into 6 distinct bands, each made up of individuals with different musical skills.

Each of the bands will be expected to create and produce their own musical composition in addition to performing existing songs. At this stage of the competition, the viewing public will step in to determine which band goes through and which band is evicted by SMS votes.

Unlike last year where there was only one eviction stage, this year will feature two eviction stages. While explaining the reason for the change, Ageni said it was to increase the level of competition amongst competing bands as well as create more suspense for the viewing public. The winning band will again be decided 100% by live public voting via SMS.

This year’s edition will be broadcast on national television with the grand finale being aired live on April 21, 2012.