Busking Underground competition - Busk off winners confirmed

Get into Gigs 2012

In March 2012, we launched Gigs, London’s biggest ever street music competition for young singers and musicians aged 11-25. Gigs follows on from Rhythm of London Busking Underground which the Mayor launched in 2009 and has introduced the likes of Robbie Boyd, Jamie West and The Lorelles to a wider audience.

Shortlisted performers will play our circuit of Gigs busking pitches in July and August, and have the chance to go through to the live Gigs grand final in September. There are some great prizes up for grabs too including a coveted TfL busking licence, training and music equipment.

If you’re ready to make London your stage in 2012, visit: http://www.molpresents.com/gigs

Busking Underground 2011

On 30 July 2011, the eleven finalists played in front of the judges and thousands of revellers at the Vintage Festival on the South Bank. Each of the finalists had just one song with which to impress, and the crowd were also treated to performances by 2010 finalists The Lorelles, I.M FOXI, James Rae and 2009 winner, Jamie West.

The Robbie Boyd Band won the competition and received an official licence from TfL's London Underground Busking Scheme. In second place were pop folk group Ze Trio who were given studio time at Strummerville studios. In third place was classical and percussive guitarist Declan Zapala who received a Roland cube amp.

As well as the top three prizes, courtesy of Eurostar, Ze Trio were awarded a fantastic opportunity to entertain passengers on the Eurostar service from London to Paris and a chance to perform in the French capital. Finally, up-and-coming guitarist Tom Hyatt was chosen by the judges to receive a special prize from the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford. Tom has been offered the music course of his choice which will help him pursue his dream of becoming a professional performer.

Busk Off Acts

Robbie Boyd Band - WINNER
Ze Trio - SECOND PRIZE and SPECIAL EUROSTAR PRIZE WINNER
Declan Zapala - THIRD PRIZE
Tom Hyatt - SPECIAL ACADEMY OF CONTEMPORARY MUSIC
Finalists Emma Elizabeth, Flauticious, INFECTA, In'Sight,Palace of Justice, Will Penrose, Chuan Foo