Culture & Education | Saturday 29 October, 2016 8:10 am |

Yasalam fever gripped Yas Mall as the top ten shortlisted artists and bands of the Emerging Talent Competition (ETC) 2016 showcased their musical talent. 

 

The buzzing Palm Court in Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi’s leading destination for shopping, dining and entertainment, was the hub of acoustic performances. This was the first live unplugged performance since being shortlisted from the local, budding artists from across the UAE.

 

The unique pop-up show featuring this year’s rising stars, included: Alastar, BLAK R, Elika Genteroy, FREEK, Gusto, Hasan Malik, Jamil Jabbour, Naree, Rashed Al Nuaimi and Sree. The top 10 have been on a fast-paced career journey having undertaken a series of workshops to hone and enhance their skills led by music industry experts.

 

ETC 2016 continues to garner industry recognition - the recent addition of Rania Hamadeh, Vice President of Marketing and Promotions, Universal Music MENA to the esteemed jury is testament to the grassroots programme’s popularity. 

 

The top 10 finalists are in the final stretch of the programme and are vying for the jury’s attention before the top three are selected in the coming weeks. 

 

The top 3 will battle it out on the Yasalam Beats on the Beach stage on 24 November in the ETC finale. The winner performs on the same stage on 26 November, wins a year-long du Arena residency, and will have their first single released on Anghami – Middle East’s top music streaming platform.

 

The stakes are high and the competition is tough. Follow #ETC2016 and support your favourite artist.

 

To learn more about the Emerging Talent Competition following Yasalam online at www.yasalam.ae or on social media #Yasalam2016 #ETC2016.