By Pempho Nkhoma

Blantyre, November 24, Mana: In a bid to promote and expose young talented artists, a record label called Warge Records held an Urban Music competition dubbed: 'The Next Big Ting.'

The competition started on October 5 and it was open to artists from different genres.

Founder and Producer at Warge Records, Wanangwa Phiri told Malawi News Agency (Mana) that over the years they have been contributing to Malawi music industry by giving young artists a platform to present their art.

“We have unearthed young talents that have eventually achieved superstar status in our country through our Riddim Projects, as well as Music Shows. It is in the same spirit that we introduced the Warge Records ‘Next Big Ting’ music competition,” he said.

Phiri added that the competition was targeting young artists from the age of 20 below to be given a chance to record five songs for free.

“During the competition the elements that the judges were looking for were originality, melody, composition and lyrics. After the analysis Rixy-B emerged the winner,” he said.

Afro Pop artist, Rixy-B real name Alickangelo Lazaro for winning the competition will get a five all paid for studio sessions at Warge Records, shoot videos and promotion for the five songs that shall be recorded.

In his remarks, Rixy-B observed that the competition was tough, acknowledging that there were many talented artists while expressing gratitude to Warge Records for the opportunity on account that it will help him to grow musically.

“I have been looking for this opportunity to push my music, given a chance to record five songs at Warge Records will shape my career because this is a big studio,” he said.

One of judges, reknowned artist Blaze, real name Blessings Gwengwe said the competition has the potential of helping young stars to find a platform they are pursuing in music circles.

“Being one of the fruits of Warge Records in Malawian music industry, I believe young talented musicians can benefit from this initiative if they follow and subscribe to all the terms and conditions,” he said.

The competition was participated by 15 young artists who recorded their songs with the same instruments and submitted to the panel of judges.

Over the years Warge Records have promoted the talent of artists like the late Mafunyeta, Malinga Mafia, Blaze, Mady P, Gibo Lantosi, among others.