Ollie North over handrail and six-stair, Skater: Justin, Listening to "Hell of a Night" by Schoolboy Q (Photo: Brad McCormick)

Vans is looking for ‘musicians who are just starting out’

Vans, the original action sports brand and global icon for creative self-expression has launched the Vans Musicians Wanted competition globally for the first time since its inception in 2015. According to the skate brand, “Vans Musicians Wanted is the brand’s global music program that aims to provide a platform for musicians who are just starting out. The contest series will celebrate fresh, new and ‘Off The Wall’ talent from all genres. For its 2020 global debut, each region around the world will provide undiscovered artists the chance to gain international exposure and the opportunity to share the stage with Grammy award-winning artist, Anderson .Paak. Additional prizes include Vans products, Fender gear, global music distribution, Spotify and Apple Music playlistings and more.”

Representatives also state, “Vans’ Musicians Wanted competition is an inclusive global platform that enables creative self-expression through music and provides a direct path for undiscovered artists to step into the limelight and gain global exposure.”

Previous winners include Japanese hardcore band 999999999 (who brought a thrilling performance to the House of Vans, dominating the stage with powerful music and movement), Australian alt-pop musician Shahrae, Chicago-based rapper Mick Jenkins, and US-renowned hip-hop artist, Kevin Gates.

To enter your original music now and read official contest rules, visit here.

And in the spirit of all things NOLA skate-or-die related, here’s Donovan’s Wolfington‘s “Ollie North,” featuring Neil Berthier on vocals (AKA PHONY) from 2015.