Urban Music Awards

Issue 6 – Ones to Watch 2013.. UMA Introducing.. LIQUID

UMATeam — Fri, 10 May 2013 03:50:14 +0000

TURNING THE SOLID DOORS OF THE MUSIC INDUSTRY INTO…LIQUID

Issue 6 of our popular Ones to Watch for 2013 series brings you an artist who is clearly is turning the solid doors of the music industry into Liquid. Liquid by name, Liquid by nature is the feeling you get when you listen to his music and understand the journey it took for the artist Liquid to start getting the recognition he is currently receiving.

Liquid was born in the UK to half Jamaican and half Guyanese parents. As most UK MC’s, he started out back in the UK Garage era enticed by a scene that dominated the UK underground music market back in the 90’s until early 2005. His love for music dates back way before the garage days. As early as 14 years of age he was writing, producing and building his craft to make sure his entry into the music industry was one with the tenacity to break the solid doors open but most importantly stay relevant consistently for a long period of time.

Liquid commented “ It’s been a long journey. From releasing 6 underground mixtapes to achieving national tv, radio airplay as an independent artist. But I am proud of what we have achieved so far and what the future holds for my brand”.

In 2009, he decided to start his very own music management company and independent record label. The 1st release from the newly founded Flipside Label Limited was titled ‘No time for talk’.

He commented “I was very conscious of the fact that most artists from outside major cities mimic the rhyming styles and general vibe of known city rappers, so I chose to create a completely different sound that truly reflected me and my surroundings”.

Thinking out of the box and standing out are things that come natural to Liquid. As an artist and now the owner of his own label and management company. He puts as much dedication into the growth of his company , song writing and producing for others as he does for his own personal projects.

Charlie Simpson, A&R Manager of the Urban Music Awards added “This year our Ones to Watch 2013 series has received so much entries. We are consistently inundated by the hundreds of the artists who want to make the list. Hence, it takes a fair amount of time for us to decide who makes the list. Liquid’s project stood out. From the music to the package. He is moulding himself to what will become a very successful brand and we need independent artist who have taken the time out to develop their talent inside and out. Liquid is certainly one of those individuals”

Future?

Liquid is currently working on a new album called ‘No Days Off’, which a few leaked singles to the press have already attracted massive interest from online bloggers, websites, and event promoters along with an ever increasing fan base. He was recently ranked No. 1 (local), No.2 (national) in the rap genre on the popular music site Reverbnation. With several singles planned to be released in the build up to the album release date. It is clear that if a solid remains constant and a liquid flows constantly then the flow for this Liquid has well and truly begun!

Follow Liquid on Social Media :

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LiquidMusicUK

Reverbnation: www.reverbnation.com/liquidmusicuk

Youtube: www.youtube.com/GANGrecordsmusic

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MiaManagement

For all PR Inquiries:

Tel: 0044 (0) 207-993-5896

E-mail: liquid2013@invinciblebusiness.com

Issue 5- Ones to Watch 2013.. UMA Introducing.. Nicky Romero

UMATeam — Sun, 05 May 2013 16:45:03 +0000

The UMA continues the Ones to Watch 2013 announcements with Issue 5 in the series. Introducing an exclusive interview with Electronic Dance Music act… Nicky Romero currently No. 20 in the UK charts with his collaboration with another fellow UMA nominee Avicii! Enjoy…

You’re only 24 and already had a number 1 hit! How does it feel?

To be honest sometimes I have to pinch myself . It is a tad unreal but I am very happy nonetheless I see this as a crown on our work and hope for many more to come.

2. You were hailed by David Guetta as the breakthrough DJ of 2011 – are there any artists on your radar for future stardom?

Oh there are soooo many to be honest we are talking to a few acts for me to back, I am sorry but can’t give the specifics on that yet, just follow us on social media and you will know very soon

3. Are there any DJ’s that you haven’t already worked with who you would like to collaborate with in the future?

I would love to be able to get the chance to go into the studio with TImbaland. He is not an EDM dj but it would be the greatest honor I could ever have, the man is a legend and I am a big fan

4. You travel the world and play in the most amazing venues, but what is your favourite part of being a DJ?

The most favorite part for me is, when I have made a new track that it goes off when I play it. In the club is where you see your effort and hard work in the studio come to fruition.

5. What can we expect from Nicky Romero over the upcoming months? Another UK no.1…?

Well I hope so guys! I just released my new track Symphonica. It is out on beatport and is doing quite well, so fingers crossed

6. You played at a lot of festivals in 2012 – what are you planning for summer 2013?

I think we have all the big ones lined up, we do Tomorrowland among others and I am chuffed to say I was added to the line up for a couple Sensations, with the pinnacle for me playing the one in Amsterdam

7. What do you like to do to wind down after working?

I love riding my bike, I am an adrenaline junkie and love high speed. I just bought a new one and have not yet had the chance to ride it, so soon as I get back from tour I will tear the asphalt apart .

8. What crowd has been the best to play to?

You know that is a question I get asked very often. With the risk of sounding overly diplomatic I just love playing anywhere, it is my passion. Of course some gigs are better than others. I have a great team and they make sure that all gigs I do are AWESOME.

9. You completed a residency with David Guetta in Ibiza – how was that?

The best! We are doing this again the coming Ibiza season, really looking forward to it. Ibiza holds a lot of roots musically and you have to bring your A game in order to impress people so it is a challenge and very exciting to say the least

10. What was it like working with and sharing such a huge hit with someone as legendary as Avicii?

It was great, I feel we complement each other very well on the production side of things. He is great at creating melodies, I am fair at doing this but like I said we gave each other great pointers and the outcome speaks for itself to my opinion

11. How did you first get in to music, and consequently producing music?

Well when I was little I joined a marching band and was taken by playing percussion as a whole. Later on when I held a shitty job collecting glasses at a local bar I was always a bit envious of the local dj. I decided I wanted to do that and not only dj but also make music, that is basically where it all kicked off.

12. Who has most influenced your musical style? Do you think you have found your niche, or can you see things developing?

I always try to keep an open mind when it comes to music. I take inspiration from all areas in life. I definitely have not found my nice as I dont think that way. I produce what I feel is best and fits my mood at the time.

13. What do you make of the huge explosion in the popularity of dance music? Do you think its reputation is changing/

Yeah I think EDM is crossing over to be mainstream.

14. You’re playing a huge show for Gatecrasher Birmingham – are you looking forward to it? How do you find the British crowds/

The Brits are great!! I love playing for my UK fans, the punters I believe you call them punters are so full on and I feel the love and energy when I play. I totally feel we make the party together and that is the best feeling in the world

15. ‘I Could Be The One’ beat ‘Harlem Shake’ to number one – have you joined the crowds and made a Harlem Shake video? Do you think you could be tempted?

Eeeeh no disrespect but no, doing a Harlem Shake video is a tad played out if you ask me, great track though

Want to be part of the #OnestoWatch2013 series. Follow us @urbanmusicaward and e-mail : charlie@urbanmusicawards.net

Issue 4 – Ones to Watch 2013: UMA Introducing… Unique Silver Dancers

UMATeam — Fri, 03 May 2013 20:35:51 +0000

MEET THE DANCE GROUP TAKING THE WORLD BY STORM……UNIQUE SILVER DANCERS

Since, 2003 The Urban Music Awards with our team spread across Europe, USA, Asia and Africa have been influential in spotting future superstars. We were first to bring you Dizzie Rascal at the Hammersmith Palais, remember when we told the world about a new artist called Rihanna spotted performing at St Lawrence Gap in Barbados. Then we promoted a young Canadian actor now known to the world as Drake back in 2006 and found a young boyband called JLS back in 2007. Many more stories not enough time… So, when we give you our #OnesToWatch it is certainly worth standing up and taking notice or notes..… Back to this issue, of #OnesToWatch2013 , the UMA’s is proud to introduce , The Unique Silver Dancers , a dance group made up of Sherrie Silver, Martha Omar, Rachel Kanu, and Rheanne Murray managed by our CEO/Founder of the UMA’s, Jordan Kensington . The girls are fast becoming the names on everyone’s lips.

The group specialises in Unique professional African and dancehall dancers who mix modern & traditional dances with drama & sometimes comedy to excite & take the audience on an adventure.

Manager of Unique Silver Dancers, Jordan Kensington commented “The Unique Silver Dancers represent the ethos of Invincible. We are always excited to introduce the world to ground-breaking talent who end up becoming household names. I am proud of what we are achieving together and the best is yet to come”.

With the growing popularity of African music, the Unique Silver Dancers have carved a global reputation as one of the best Afrobeats dance group and with the girls all aged around 18. The future is bright and the world is their oyster .

The group are in constant demand from functions, weddings, music videos, and workshops across Europe, Africa, Canada and America.

With a background ranging from different parts of Africa . Sherrie is from Rwanda , Rheanne brings the Caribbean/ Dancehall vibes to the group from Jamaica and Barbados, Rachel is from Sierria Leone and Martha is flying the flag for Kenya. Together they represent Africa in all it’s glory with their story which comes from humble beginnings of hardship, struggle and a strive which has led to the current success in the group.

Lead dancer and actress, Sherrie Silver also starred in the hit BBC TV film , Africa United which was herald as one of the best productions the BBC has done in a long time.

With over 1.2 million + views achieved on their Youtube channel this year (2013) alone and a constant stream of bookings, brand endorsement deals and an imminent tour. It seems like the world is certainly ready for the Unique Silver Dancers. Don’t believe us? Well, watch the video below and find out for yourselves !

To Book Unique Silver Dancers :

Contact: management@invinciblegroup.com

Click to Watch the USD performance video

Issue 3- UMA Introducing… Ones to Watch 2013 – Debra Debs

jordan — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:17:50 +0000

CAMEROON ARTIST POISED TO FLY THE FLAG FOR AFRICA, WITH NEW SINGLE ‘AFRICA, HIGHER HIGER’
London, UK, 25/04/13. One of the world’s biggest music organisations the Urban Music Awards is pleased to announce it’s first Cameroonian artist to make it to the list for Ones to Watch for 2013.

The 31 year old recording artist, who was raised in the capital city of Yaounde in Cameroon has bagged herself the historical title as the first Cameroonian artist to make the Ones to Watch 2013 list as published by the Urban Music Awards.

“I feel very blessed and it comes at the right time as we work towards my first free world wide single release for 2013 called Africa ‘Higher Higher’. My vision is to get the world to see Africa in a new light. We are blessed with our traditions, raw minerals, creativity and melting pot of cultures and it is time we all start flying our flags much higher than ever before”. said Debra Debs
From the age of nine (9) Debra Debs showed star quality always singing and writing songs at every opportunity. Growing up in the capital city of Cameroon gave her an understanding of the different cultures, stories, and experiences that now have had a massive impact on her sound today.
With her sound firmly grounded in Neosoul, Afro-beat and Soulful RnB, she released her first EP, “WHUMAN” in 2011 which was a mixture of socio-conscious, love vs pain, melodic story-telling drawn from the heart & soul and took listeners on a journey of both self discovery and a much needed vacation from the current chart dominating plastic pop to a more classic/exclusive soulful long term sound.
Quickly after moving to London from Cameroon, she was dedicated to driving her music further and after studying music she decided to concentrate on making sure music became her long term career choice.
2013, saw the Cameroonian artist, kick off with an exclusive appearance on the Official African Charts show which was syndicated to over 30 countries in Africa. The show also featured, US actor , Sammuel L Jackson and propelled her to the next level with comments from new found fans across Africa showing a connection to a soul superstar in the making. This was followed by a mini-tour in Cameroon, which saw Debra sell out one of the prestigious venues in Yaounde and a live interview and performance on the national TV station for Cameroon, CRTV.
With such a great team behind her, the future for Debra Debs looks very bright! CEO, of the Urban Music Awards, Jordan Kensington added “ Debra Debs is an artist that I have known for a very long time. The music she makes is what the music industry needs right now. Music needs to move the soul and Debra Debs is definitely the right artist to bring back the good noise and at the same time fly the flag for Cameroon and Africa as a whole”.
Her first single, Africa, ‘Higher Higher’ is set to be released as a free download on the 14th of May 2013 with an exclusive performance to launch the single at the Official European Charts launch party.
The official video filmed in Cameroon is also set to premiers officially on the 14th of May 2013.
With a scheduled performance at this year’s 11th annual Urban Music Awards 2013 and a host of events, releases and her much anticipated album release. It looks like Cameroon, has finally got it’s very own soul superstar to be proud of and as for Africa. The world gets to see an addition to the current wave of amazing talent taking over the music scene coming from Africa!
Watch Video by Debra Debs ‘Africa – Higher, Higher’:

Watch Debra Debs interview on the Official African Charts Show :

http://www.chartnation.co.uk/itv/2013/02/official-african-charts-week-2/

Follow Debra Debs on Twitter:
@debradebs
For More info. Go to : www.debradebs.com

For MP3 /Song/ Music Video:
Tel: 0044 (0) 207-993-5896
Contact: management@invinciblegroup.com
For Press/Interviews/Bookings:
Tel: 0044 (0) 208-985-0800
Contact: management@invinciblegroup.com

Ones to Watch 2013- Issue 2- UMA Introducing……Rudo Mutiba

UMA Editorial Team — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 13:22:09 +0000

On the last issue of Ones to Watch fo 2013, we featured gospel hiphop artist Lyrical Soldier and now for Issue 2, please welcome another gospel singing sensation Rudo Mutiba. 2013 is already looking like one of the best years yet for Mutiba as she embarks on a promotional campaign throughout Africa, Europe and more. Rudo Mutiba who counts Zimbabwe as her background, has found success in the gospel music industry by working on songs which build on her Zim and African heritage. We decided to catch up with Rudo for her first initial interview on the Urban Music Awards.

At what age did you realise, you had a passion for singing and the talent to pursue your dream?
At the age of 5 I realized I could sing! As for realization to pursue my dream
it was at the age of16 when I wrote my first song.
How would you describe your faith?
I am a born again Christian, who believes in God’s Love and Salvation through
Christ who died and rose again.
You are currently in Africa promoting your forthcoming projects. What will you be doing whilst in Zimbabwe?
I will be doing Radio, TV and Press Interviews to promote my imminent single “Nkosi yaMakhosi”

The Zim music scene has unearthed several music stars. What does being from Zimbabwe mean to you as an artist?
Being Zimbabwean is a Heritage to me! That is, my culture and mother Languages (Ndebele and Shona) reflect in some of my music even though I am mainly a Contemporary Gospel Artist and I sing mostly in English.
2013 is already proving a busy year for you. But, looking back at your past music career . What would you say is your 3 biggest achievements so far?
a) Writing, recording and releasing my first album in 2009 (The Great I am) as well as my current album (yet to be released but being released as singles)

b) Writing, recording and releasing a single for a Charity Organization (World Vision) Titled: “God’s Love Flows “ I sponsor a couple of children through them!
c)Breaking territories i.e. getting TV and Radio Airplay in Africa, America, UK and Newzealand.To me it is a sign that I am rising as an International Artist.
What artists did you grow up to listening?
Rebecca Malope (South African Gospel Artist), Whitney Houston, Cece Winans, Yolanda Adams and the likes of AZ Yet and Boyz 2 Men.

You are seen as an artist flying the flag for Gospel music in Africa and worldwide. Do you think Gospel music as a genre has the potential of becoming entrenched in popular culture?
YES! In Africa especially Zimbabwe and Southern Africa it is already part of popular culture as it is in the Main stream. America has also made a mark in that respect! In UK and Europe we well on our way .
What releases single/album have you got planned this year?
Three singles are lined up for this year. All leading up to the release of the Album at the end of the year!Single titles are:
a) Nkosi yaMakhosi (King of Kings)
b) I’ve captured God’s Heart
c) It’s Time
If you had an opportunity to collaborate with a dream artist. Who will this artist be and why?
Yolanda Adams and Cece Winans. They are my inspiration have influenced me as an artist!
I have often been told I sound a lot like them. Where can readers find out more about you?
Online i.e. on social networks, facebook, myspace, twitter and youtube etc

and… finally any last shouts or words of advice to your supporters out there?
God loves you more than you will ever know! Come and experience his love…

Ones to Watch 2013- Introducing Lyrical Soldier – Issue 1

UMA Editorial Team — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 22:02:51 +0000

Welcome back to Ones to Watch 2013, each year we profile artist the Urban Music Awards believe will be certainly the next big thing for 2013. In the first issue of 2013, ladies and gentlemen give it up for… Lyrical Soldier a HipHop artist committed to taking gospel HipHop to higher heights! We caught up with the newcomer to find out what’s in store for 2013!

1.) What’s behind the name Lyrical Soldier?

It is well known that their is power in our words. You can use your words to lift someone up, or to bring someone down. I seek to use my words to inspire a generation. As said by Nelson Mandela “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language that goes to his heart.”

2.) Can you let us know your Top 5 best moments of 2012?

1) My debut Music Video ‘Unconditional’ being play listed on KISS TV

2) Coming running up in the Wretch 32 ‘TAKE THE STAGE’ Adidas Competition

3) Collaborating with Derry (from The Risk) and Ghanaian Artists Efya, Ruff and Smooth, Ayigbe Edem, Stonebwoy, Stephanie and Denta to record a song to support Ghana in the London2012 Olympics

4) My music video for “Rise UP” being play listed on RnB Massive and Channel AKA

5) Being nominated at the 2012 BEFFTA Awards for “Best Gospel Act”

3.) What are your goals and vision for 2013?

My vision for 2013 is to really establish myself as an artist internationally and to use the platform to support charities around the world, making a difference in the lives of those around me. My goals also includes completing my Album “The Transition” and going on tour

4.) How has your relationship with God shaped the music you are making now and the message in your music?

My relationship with God forms the basis of my life, gives me purpose and direction. For this reason it has a major influence on my music and what I talk about.

5.) If you were Prime Minister for a day, what would you change and why?

If I was Prime Minister for one day I would make university free this is because “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” I wouldn’t say that going to uni and leaving with a HUGE debt is a good start lol.

6.) Talk to the Urban Music Awards audience about your new project. What is
this EP about? Who is featured on it? and when is it officially released?

I am really excited about the release of my latest project “Rise UP- the EP”. ‘Rise Up’ is a powerful song of encouragement to all. It’s a reminder that no matter what your circumstances may be; not to let them defeat you by keeping you down. This E.P will feature Legendary Reggae Artist Papa San, Bobby Bovell (son of the great reggae producer Denis Bovell), Debbie Okeowo, Ricardo Mitchell and Jayando Cole

7.) Finally, why do you think you have been selected as one of 2013′s Next Big Things to watch?

I think I have been selected as one of 2013′s Next Big Things to watch because of my consistent hard work and willingness to excel. I have a message which the world needs to here right now. Despite race, gender, religion, my music causes people to change something small in their lives, or think a little bit longer about a decision they want to make.

8.) How can Urban Music Awards fans find out more about Lyrical Soldier?

www.Lyricalsoldier.com

Twitter: Lyrical_Soldier

UMA 2012 Red Carpet & Ceremony (Part 3)

Marta Garcia Gru — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:10:38 +0000

UMA 2012 Red Carpet and Ceremony (part 2)

Marta Garcia Gru — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:04:04 +0000

UMA 2012 Red Carpet and Ceremony (part 1)

Marta Garcia Gru — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 17:42:05 +0000

Grain of Salt joins the list of Official Catering Sponsors for the UMA’s 2012

Sinead Blatch — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 11:49:54 +0000

Grain of Salt is proud to be working in association with The Urban Music Awards
2012! As official caterers for this year’s event, to celebrate their 10 th year
we will be serving up a luscious array of scrumptious heavenly canapés created
exclusively by La Fusion to tantalise those taste buds and teasing them with a
taste of the art that is Grain of Salt

Visit our website to view our services and find our contact details.