QUEENS — Young musical artists from around the city will perform during a back-to-school concert and talent competition at Roy Wilkins Park in Jamaica this weekend emceed by Bow Wow, organizers said.
The artists were asked to send a YouTube video with their presentation and the top 25 musicians will compete in various categories, from rap and R&B to pop and gospel. The contest, with the first prize of $1,000, is open to artists 12 to 21-years-old from all five boroughs.
The goal is “to empower our youth and get them excited for the coming school year,” said Maria Hubbard from the Greater Bethel Community Development Corporation, a non-profit group organizing the event. “I am looking forward to seeing all the artists perform at the concert," she said.
Actor and rapper Bow Wow, who performed with Chris Brown, T-Pain and Snoop Dog, will emcee the event. The concert will also feature performances by a number of local artists, including Brooklyn hip-hop artist Maino, the organizers said.
The concert is free to the public and the first 3,000 attendees will receive "swag bags" with school supplies, according to Councilman Leroy Comrie who co-sponsors the event. Clothes from Gap will be distributed and laptops will be raffled off, Comrie’s office said.
The concert will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7, at Roy Wilkins Park from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free but those interested in attending must call 718-523-4357 to reserve their pass.
