The young pop singer took third place in the Coast 2 Coast Live contest, which is considered one of the biggest artiste showcases in the world, in New York City, in the US, last month.

At least two of the adjudicators at the event, prominent American producers Mystro and Ghanaian-born Eric “Coptic” Matlock, felt that Lisa had a bright future in the global music industry.

From Lamontville near Durban, the 25-year-old singer impressed the American judges with her exciting single, Happy World (Haybo), and its accompanying music video, which came out on top at the Coast 2 Coast Music Video Showcase in February. The track is playlisted in the UK, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Namibia, although it is still to be picked up by major radio stations at home in South Africa (despite the SABC’s recent decision to play 90 percent local music).

Lisa’s success at the American showcase comes after her record label, Xhentsa Entertainment, decided to test the international waters after seeing the response whenever the song was played.

“We were surprised when the results came back positive and she had been selected in the Artist and Video Showcase for this year in New York,” said Xhentsa’s Sakhele Mzalazala.

“This was an opportunity I couldn’t miss,” said Lisa about entering the contest. “I just took the chance of entering my song for Coast 2 Coast because I know how big they are in the US. They help boost artists’ careers to higher levels.

“Honestly, I didn’t think I’d get chosen because they are more into hip-hop than the music I make, so imagine my surprise when I got a call from them telling me I had been selected and they love my music. I want to make my mark in the industry – and this news was just crazy.”

Apart from the online entries, Coast 2 Coast Live travels to over 10 cities in the US every month, looking for the hottest new talent. All artistes receive scores and written feedback from the guest judges, including on how to improve their songs and performances.

Contestants are judged on their originality, quality, marketability, presence and potential. – musicinafrica.net

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