OFFERING invaluable advice to aspiring musicians stepping into the 2025 “Icon Zambia Show” stage, zambian hip-hop artiste Clementina Mulenga, known by her stage name “Cleo Ice Queen,” cautions contestants to stay level-headed and accept feedback, positive or negative with equal grace and composure.
“Always remember in this business, you will receive both praise and criticism but it’s essential to learn from both and keep growing. Don’t let compliments go to your head, and don’t let criticism bring you down. Take it all in stride, with humility and a willingness to improve,” Cleo advised.
Cleo is part of the panels of judges in season two of the show “Icon Zambia.”
With her distinctive style and authentic approach, Cleo is sure to bring her unique perspective and bold personality to the judging table, adding an extra layer of excitement to this already hotly anticipated musical talent competition.
As Cleo shares her words of wisdom to the contestants, she emphasised the importance of balancing one’s ego and emotions in the face of highs and lows of public opinion.
She stated that compliments can be addictive and criticism can be devastating but one must remember that both can be fleeting.
Cleo was speaking when she appeared on “That Zed Podcast.”
“Let the compliments inspire you, not inflate your ego. Allow the criticism to drive your growth, not demoralise you. It’s a delicate balance but crucial in navigating a career in the spotlight,” she stated.
Cleo made it clear that judges this season are looking for a complete package when judging the talented contestants on the show.
According to her, a great performer is more than just talent hence, the search is for someone who’s receptive to feedback and eager to learn, who can take what he or she is given to them and elevate their craft even further..
She asserted that judges are not only interested in raw talent, but also the character that comes with it.
“We need someone who cannot only perform on stage but also represent Zambia with dignity and class. We are looking for a ‘well-rounded packaged artiste’, someone who has the talent, drive, and charisma to be a true ambassador for Zambian music,” she shared.
Cleo further underscored the the importance of the “Icon Zambia Show” in representing Zambia’s distinct musical identity to the global audience.
“It’s crucial that our contestants showcase the best of Zambian music, so that when people outside our borders hear these songs, they can say, ‘Oh, that’s Zambian music!’ They should hear our beats, our melodies, our voices, and know that they are unmistakably Zambian,” Cleo explained.
This season’s ultimate winner will not only take home a staggering K250,000 in cash but also a trip to the City of Love, Paris, a brand-new car, a house, and health insurance among others.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba June 30, 2025
