One Step Away From The O2!
Karl Palmer wowed the crowd and judging panel at the Open Mic UK Regional Showcase, and he is now one step away from performing at The O2 in London!
Thousands of acts entered Open Mic UK 2011 and the best unsigned singers from across the country were chosen to perform at the live Regional Final shows. Karl Palmer performed in front of a live audience and professional judging panel on 6th November at the Liner Hotel in Liverpool. He’s now set to perform at the Area Final for the chance to progress to the National Grand Final at The O2 in London as part of Live Fest, London’s biggest indoor festival on 21st January 2012.
Those who made it through the audition stage took part in a live Regional head-to-head battle alongside the best talent in their area. Acts performed in front of hundreds of audience members and industry judges for the chance to grab a breakthrough recording contract.
A spokesperson for Open Mic UK commented “We are searching for an act that not only has the live ability to impress an audience, industry judges and A&R associates, but an act that has the potential to become a professional recording artist. Acts that have made it are just one step away from performing at the best live music venue in the country!”
The competition is divided into age categories; 16 and Under, 17-22 and 23 and Over; all types of singers, vocal performers, groups and acoustic singer/songwriters are invited to enter Open Mic UK.
Previous winner Birdy still at only 15 years of age has recently been a favourite on Radio 1 after signing with Warner Music with two hits singles already to date including her version of the Bon Iver classic “Skinny Love.” Last year’s under 18’s winner, Hatty Keane , has also had huge success after being signed to BGM Music. Since then Hatty has performed live sets alongside Tinchy Stryder, Zane Lowe, Tempa T and Roll Deep and is currently working on new material. Hatty’s latest video Best Kept Secret has received over 200,000 views on YouTube already.
There’s over £50,000 in prizes up for grabs this year and the overall winner will be offered a recording contract, with up to £30,000 investment! They’ll also have the opportunity to tour across the UK.
There are plenty of development opportunities available to acts taking part courtesy of ICMP, who will be offering songwriting courses and master classes throughout the competition. The latter stages of the competition will also provide acts with the opportunity to impress many guests from record labels, agencies and the entertainment industry.
