By Chris Richburg
Cash Money/Universal Records artist Lil Wayne will be among the music industry heavyweights appearing at this year’s BMI Unsigned Urban Showcase.
The 11th annual event, which is scheduled to take place at 9 p.m. on April 24 at the Luckie Lounge in Atlanta, will feature four aspiring artists who will perform in front of group of celebrity judges.
New York R&B crooner Brandon Hines along with Atlanta-based entertainers Jarren Benton, Holly Weerd and Trimm, beat out more than 300 hopefuls as they competed for the chance to perform at the showcase.
Celebrity judges include producers Don Vito, Universal Music Publishing vice president Ethiopia Habtemariam; producer DJ Toomp, producer DJ Montay, entertainment attorney Reid Hunter; Chrysalis Music vice president Val Patton; entertainment attorney Sandra Brown; producer No I.D., The Clutch songwriters J. Que and Ezekiel "Zeke" Lewis, singer/songwriter Keri Hilson, producer Teddy Bishop, Grand Hustle producer Lil C "C Gutta," lifestyle specialist Kenny Burns and Bad Boy director of A&R and songwriter/producer Slam.
In addition to Lil Wayne, the showcase will highlight performances from hit-making wordsmith Sean Garrett, aka The Pen and Star Trak/Interscope artist Teyana Taylor.
BMI will also present the Legends of Atlanta Award, which recognizes a community leader for his or her contributions to the Atlanta music scene.
Past award recipients include Big Oomp and Organized Noize.
The 11th annual BMI Unsigned Urban Showcase is open to the public.
Admission is $20.00 until 10 p.m. Doors open at 8 p.m. Attendees must be 21-years-old with valid identification.