Haringey musicians in battle to busk (From Haringey Independent)

Haringey musicians in battle to busk

11:01am Tuesday 15th June 2010 in Top Stories By Elizabeth Pears

PROMISING musical talents hailing from Haringey are battling for votes in a capital-wide competition to win a coveted London Underground busking spot.

The two acts Will and the People, of Hornsey, and Madame Pepper, of Tottenham, can be viewed on YouTube as part of Mayor of London Boris Johnson's Rhythm of London project - a week-long series of music events to increase opportunities and education for young people aged between 16 and 25.

Madame Pepper is a 23-year-old soul singer who has performed at London's Jazz Cafe, and Will and the People is a three-man retro pop band.

If the musicians collect enough votes, they will be propelled to the next stage with a chance to become the next Busk Idol following a showdown of 10 final acts.

The winner, selected by a panel of industry experts, will be crowned in July and granted a licence to perform for commuters.

Runner-up prizes include studio time worth £500, musical equipment, Musicians Union membership and advice sessions.

It could also help them secure live gigs at venues including the Indigo Club O2.

Mr Johnson said: "Rhythm of London is about celebrating and getting young people involved in music, so let's champion and encourage our aspiring musicians and help to make their dreams come true.

"There are also some fantastic prizes up for grabs so get onto YouTube, pass the links to all your friends and family, and get your local community, schools, shops and workplaces voting for who they want to go through to the next round."

Deadlines for votes is Sunday, June 20.

To view the performances of all the buskers and vote for your favourite busker, visit www.london.gov.uk/rhythmoflondon/busking/