TopLux Records has ignited an open verse challenge for the next “TopStar” built on an original beat from Nigerian premier producer Ozedikus. This positions the initiative as a fresh talent pipeline for the label to seek out the best talent at a time when social media has become one of the most direct routes from bedroom studios to record deals.
The format is quite simple as artists are obliged to download the Ozedikus-produced instrumental, write and record an original verse over it, then post the finished clip to their social media accounts. Ozedikus, having created some of the biggest international hits of the streaming era, is widely acknowledged as one of the key builders of modern Afrobeats.
TopLux Records is setting the pace in the new-age of music by kindling this unconventional approach to recruiting some of the continent’s best stars. Getting a beat of this quality is a career achievement in and of itself for an unsigned musician. Rappers, singers, and pocket-groove vocalists are all challenged to demonstrate their variety, distinctive cadence, and lyrical prowess over top-notch production. The instrumental is designed to test every aspect of an artist's abilities.
Entrants are required to tag @TopLuxrecords across platforms to be considered, effectively turning each submission into an audition tape to earn an exclusive deal with the label.
TopLux reiterates that the goal extends beyond a single competition. The label hems this as a scouting exercise aimed at identifying strong vocal and lyrical talent from across the continent, rather than restricting entries to one country or region. Winners selected from the pool of submissions will be offered exclusive signing deals with TopLux Records, giving the challenge real stakes for unsigned artists looking for a foothold.
Interested artists can access the beat via [(beacons.ai/toplux] or through TopLux Records’ official social media pages. Full instructions: record a verse on the beat, post it, and tag @TopLuxrecords — apply uniformly across platforms.
