Windhoek — Cell One music winner, Ricardo Shaningua, who earlier this year won himself a fully-sponsored recording contract, is now scheduled to go into production for his first CD under professional guidance of successful music producer, Elvo Diergaardt.

With most of the groundwork already in place, Namibia's newest singing sensation will move to Windhoek from his base in the Ohangwena Region for the recording of his album, which is scheduled for the middle of this month. The release of the 12-song CD will be before December.

Ricardo says he is primarily an R'nB Soul artist, but would allow his producer to make the tunes more Namibian. As a well-established Namibian music producer, Elvo has helped Namibia's most successful artists, such as The Dogg, Sunny Boy and Gazza to produce the greatest hits this country has ever heard.

Among Elvo's latest works is a part of Gazza's new album that is yet to be released, featuring songs like Ongalo, which was also performed at the CORTF grand finale. Omalaeti's youth album featuring Founding President Dr Sam Nujoma and incumbent President Hifikepunye Pohamba, was also produced by Elvo. According to the producer he is open to the idea of featuring some renowned local artists on his album.

"Music has always been my passion, and to be able to sing professionally is the icing on the cake," the singer said.