BBC 1Xtra's search for a spoken word star

BBC Radio 1Xtra are collaborating with BBC Asian Network and Contains Strong Language Events to find the best emerging spoken word talent in the UK. 

BBC 1Xtra's search for a spoken word star

All things poetry, lyricism, rap and hip hop are welcomed at this year's search for the next spoken word world star. Words First, which is the development scheme aimed to give selected artists the opportunity to attend workshops, work with established artists and mentors, will give creatives a platform to perform their work at a major showcase. 

This amazing opportunity has seen previous participants get to work with George the Poet and Kojey Radical – both influential in the world of music, combining their natural rapping ability to convey meaningful and poignant messages. 

The scheme, which will run throughout 2021, requires artists to upload a short performance video before applications close on 11 June 2021 at midnight. 

Lady Leshurr, the British rapper and singer-songwriter has been appointed as an ambassador for Words First 2021. She will provide guidance and mentoring for the finalists throughout the scheme.

“I can’t wait to hear and see the talent we find through this year's Words First project. Whether it’s spoken word, rap or poetry – it will be amazing and I am honoured to be this year’s ambassador,” said Lady Leshurr. 

Among others, British poet Malika Booker and Words First alumni Isaiah Hull will be working with the 12 selected artists in talent masterclasses.

This BBC collaborative effort will conclude with a Summer showcase performance at the Contains Strong Language Festival in Coventry, where shortlisted artists from the digital workshops will be invited to perform. BBC Radio 1Xtra will then broadcast the final at the end of the year. 

Entries are already open and will close on 11 June and you can apply here.

Header Image Credit: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International

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De-Mornae Clarke

De-Mornae Clarke Kickstart Team

De-mornae is a Kickstart Journalist for Voice. Music, interviews and pop culture are her preferred topics of interest but is often pushing her own creative boundaries to prove that anyone can have an opinion regardless of their background, education or class.

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