Mazen May

Ou Stakes: From Clashing with the Law to ‘King of Ma /Gaisa’

Swakopmund’s Ou Stakes has not only cemented his place as a leading force in ma /gaisa music, but has also proven to be a resilient artist, entrepreneur and mentor. Stanley Hamaseb survived constantly clashing with the law to become the “undisputed king of ma /gaisa music”, according to his fans. The crown was officially presented to the late Phura Duwe at the NamPower Convention Hall almost a decade ago, but Ou Stakes has carried the mantle Phura left with pride and dignity. In fact, with two best ma /gaisa artist of the year awards and four best ma /gaisa song of the year awards behind his name and still going strong, there is no denial that the ‘Bobo’ hitmaker is the rightful heir to the crown left by his best friend. “Phura and I were not just best friends. We grew up like two brothers. We even shared my bed at my mother’s house at Swakopmund when he moved from Khorixas. We ate from the same plate and we also drank water and tea from the same cup,” Ou Stakes says.