TWO local acts have made it through to the final 50 of Negart Records’ Sonic Star competition.   

The winner of the competition will be decided by a phone vote and will then enjoy a £100,000 record deal, and receive £10,000 cash. 

Ryan Upton, who is 21 years-old and lives in South Ham, submitted a cover of John Legend’s All of Me to the competition and was delighted to make it through. 

The Brighton Hill Community School pupil first properly picked up a mic at the age of 16 and has been singing since. He uploaded covers of popular tracks to YouTube and has built up a large fanbase on social media.

Recently, Ryan has supported Jordan O’Keefe and he played Soccer Six alongside James Arthur and Sam Callahan.  

Ryan said: “I have always loved music and when I first picked up a microphone, I realised it was my dream to perform.

“My musical influences include Ed Sheeran, John Legend and Stevie Wonder as I am a soul/pop artist and songwriter.

“My career has really taken off and it is going so well for me at the moment. The support I get from my family and fans is what really pushes me to follow my dream and with people believing in me more it helps me believe in myself.”

Also through to the final 50 are local alt rock band Whitewash, who are comprised of Matt McAuley (drums, backing vocals), Mike Steer (bass) and Alex Jones (lead vocals, lead guitar, keys).

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Formed in November 2009, they have quickly made a name for themselves. They write their own songs and released a debut three track EP last summer named Whitewash.

Alex from the band commented: “The moment I saw the competition my immediate thought was 'this could actually be it!' If we try hard enough, we can make it big - it just takes effort on our part.

"We've been doing this for years now; we need to take it to the next level. If we win we can share our music with everyone - that's what we want, after all.”

To vote for Ryan, text Negart 37 to 64343. To vote for Whitewash, text Negart 46 to the same number.

Votes cost £1 plus standard network rate. Please ensure that you have the bill payer’s permission before voting. Competition closes at midnight after June 30, 2014.