Student Shak Set for Stardom!

06/02/2012

Shak Forbes with his Open Mic trophies

Talented College music student, Shak Forbes, 16, is celebrating after being named winner of the Open Mic UK competition, a national search for new young music talent, with his original rap performance at a live final held at the O2 on January 21.

Shak, who lives in Coulsdon, and studies BTEC Music Composing and Performance, plus AS Level Philosophy and Politics at the College's Sixth Form Haywards Heath campus is now set to take the charts by storm after he beat off stiff competition from 9,000 young musicians from across the UK, to scoop first prize of a recording contract worth £30,000, and the chance to release his own single.

Shak, who has been writing original compositions since the age of eight, took to the stage in front of a packed house, and confidently put his own twist on Mac Miller's 'Best Day Ever', backed by a full choir. His performance blew away judges who included: Radio 1's Annie Nightingale; BMG's Michael King; Future Music's Chris Grayston; and singer Shola Ama.

Shak said "I have always loved the creativity of making music, and being on stage feels like the right place for me to be. However, I never thought I'd win this competition, so it feels amazing!"

Music teacher at the College, Steve McCarthy said: "This is an amazing achievement for a young talent and the combination of winning a national competition in addition to his music studies at College is preparing Shak for a strong career in the industry."

Shak hopes to be able to complete his studies, but is looking forward to a bright future in the music industry.