This week MTV announced the nominees for “Brand New 2011” in conjunction with smart phone super giant Blackberry. A mini concert was held at Koko in Camden to showcase some of the talent shortlisted. Female RnB and rap trio Ruff Diamondz opened the show, followed by the much anticipated Jessie J who belted out fan favourites “Who you are” and “Do it Like a Dude” from her forthcoming LP. UK grime rapper Devlin who jumped on a verse for her single “Price tag” also joined Jessie. Headliner Tinchy Stryder also performed a series of hit tracks including the underground smash “Game Over” and new single “Rain”. Fans were delighted when all artists featured on both tracks made a surprise appearance including US songstress Melanie Fiona, Giggs, Dappy from NDubz, Devlin and new RocaFella signing Koke.
The finalists shortlisted are: Jessie J, Wretch 32, Willow Smith, Far East Movement, Rough Diamonds, Jamie Woon, Claire Maguire, Labyrinth, Mona, and The Vaccines.
Fans can still vote for their favourite finalist for BlackBerry Presents Brand New for 2011 on www.mtv.co.uk/brandnew
Words by Toya Berry
