Wildebeats and The Brother Moves On were chosen by a panel of judges who experienced some of the best new music South Africa has to offer over two nights last weekend, making the decision in this landmark contest a difficult one.
Live @ The Alex played host to The Brother Moves On, Reason and The Watermark High on Friday while Bateleur, Wildebeats and Andy Mkosi brought their top game to The Assembly on Saturday.
#FutureMusic Rising was presented by the British Council Connect ZA and Live SA in association with Roundhouse (UK).
The judging panel was: Diane Coetzer, contributing music editor, Rolling Stone South Africa; Percy Mabandu, arts journalist, City Press; DJ Kenzhero; Oliver Kluczewski, music programme producer, Roundhouse; Heather Davina Campbell, trainee event producer, Roundhouse; Lee Molefi, Johannesburg editor, Live Magazine SA; and Buhle Mweli, editor, Live Magazine SA.
"The standard of all the artists was so incredibly high and it was a massive honour to be a part of the connection and to hear so much great music," said Oliver Kluczewski, music programme producer of Roundhouse.
"After lots of heated debate with all the judges the winners were selected. Both of these artists are really trying to push their own music potential and drive forward the progressive, exciting and powerful sound of the new music scene in South Africa. They are both in the right position to really maximise the Roundhouse Rising festival performance and the opportunity to connect with the UK music industry. Above all though, these musicians are making undeniably great music that will no doubt take London by storm."
