Clarissa Pidliswyj. – Image credit: Tabie Ledesma
A Salford music student has become a finalist in a nationwide talent search for Manchester clothing brand, I Saw It First.
Clarissa Pidliswyj, who studies popular music and recording at the University of Salford, entered the competition on the off chance after seeing an advertisement on Instagram for the competition requesting people to tag singing videos.
The brand, which was the official sponsor of this year’s Love Island, set out to find the fiercest emerging female artists across the nation. The 21 finalists will now compete for the chance to win £25,000 and a music deal with the clothing brand.
The 21-year-old said: “I tagged a video of mine from a year ago and they said they really liked it, so I uploaded a new one, and it got recognition.
“I didn’t think I’d reach the top 21, or even have the chance to make my own music video. At first I thought that the music video was the final prize when you won but that’s part of the competition, so I’m really lucky to have even come this far.”
The fashion brand is partnering with Capital Xtra to amplify the campaign across all social channels and websites, which attract a digitally engaged audience, passionate about music.
The talent search will be judged by Capital XTRA’s new breakfast show hosts, Yinka Bokinni and Shayna Marie Birch-Campbell, as well legendary music producer Zed Bias.
“At I Saw It First, our goal is to create a platform where independent fashion visions can flourish, so we’re really excited to be taking that outlook into the music world by launching the First Look campaign.
Leanne Holmes, Buying & Merchandising Director
The finalists have already recorded their songs and filmed their music videos.
Now, it’s up to the public to decide which female artist is their favourite by voting on their website.
The artists had the opportunity to work with well known music producers in Manchester to record their songs.
Before filming their music videos in London, the finalists worked closely with directors and had the chance to share their own themes and ideas to fit their songs.
Clarissa said: “Surrender is my own song and song-writing is new to me, so it’s quite daunting to put my song out there because it’s so personal to me.
“In this industry especially, it’s really easy to doubt yourself. So many people are doing the same thing and there is a lot of competition.
“This is what I want to do and enjoy, it’s amazing that I could make this into a successful career and make a living off doing this.”
Clarissa said: “I want to inspire other people to do these things because I’m really shy and this has helped me to get out of my shell.
“I’ve gained so much confidence working with this brand and meeting new people.”
Voting is unlimited and closes on Sunday 15th December. To vote, click here
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