Billed as a “search for Newy’s next top talent”, the Tip Jar songwriting competition has hit all the right notes in the Novocastrian music scene.
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Over 200 songs were submitted by more than 150 artists, with their eyes on expanding their image and earning the $10,000 voted and industry prizes.
Songs were available online, with over 2,000 votes entered by the public over 16 days, and Benn Allsop claimed the crowd-voted top spot with Here To Tell You.
Allsop comes from a musical theatre background and only began songwriting seriously two years ago after receiving a warm response for a track he wrote and performed for his wife Abbie on their wedding day.
“I was on the path, but these past few days have made me think that I’m doing something right,” Allsop said.
15-year-old Paris Grace’s Longer This Time was selected for the industry award, and Tip Jar organiser and founder Kian West revealed the judges were surprised to discover how young she was.
“Her song had a really unique sound and had a powerful impact on the judges, who were impressed with its lyrics and composition,” West said. “When we found out at the awards night that she was only 15 we were blown away.”
The Cambridge Hotel after-party was a highlight of the competition too, with many of the entrants selected to show off their wares.
The evening was closed out by EDM-trap performer Jericho and emerging indie rock four-piece Rum Jungle in front of a buoyant crowd.
Rum Jungle’s singer, Benjamin McIntyre, believes that the support shown for emerging artists is a “great way to foster a thriving music scene”.
“It’s fantastic to see a competition like this start in Newy, there’s a lot of individuals and bands that are looking for their kick-start and it gives them that chance,” McIntyre said. “There were a lot of good acts on show at the night, and we’re pretty glad to have been given a chance.”
“Newcastle has a great music scene at the moment, there’s lots of live venues that support young bands and performers, and this is just another step towards growing that even more.”
India, Yev Kassem and Molly Millington rounded out the emerging Newcastle talent at the Cambridge Hotel after-party.