In search of Drockstars

A contestant performing at the auditions Photo: Ishtiaque

DRockstars is aimed at nurturing promising rock musicians all over Bangladesh. The audition round of DRockstars talent search began on November 15 at Nazrul Institute, Dhanmondi, Dhaka where the 103 participants selected from primary screening process came face-to-face for the first time.

The aspiring musicians have been selected from a pool of 2600 after proving their mettle. The screening process has been executed by listening to the tapes and CDs sent by participants (age 18 to 28) across the country .

In the live audition round held in Dhaka, the participants performed songs of their own choice. Their performances were backed by professional instrumentalists. The judges, Ayub Bachchu, Fuad, Balam and Tipu checked for the contestants' ability to maintain proper scale, rhythm, clarity and also their overall performance on stage.

Popular rockstar Ayub Bachchu, one of the judges of the event, said, "DRockstars has embarked on a journey to fulfill the dreams of the young rock talents of Bangladesh. Given a platform, I'm sure they can prove their worth. Such talent hunts will not only encourage the aspiring rockers but also help in the discovery of genuine talents from all over the country. Hopefully the finalists will be able to make waves in the country's rock music scene."

"We have the ability to sing, we have confidence and potential. Bangladesh doesn't have a lack of talented musicians, all we need, is an opportunity to shine. Djuice has created that opportunity for us. We are deeply inspired and motivated. We're going to sing out loud and the future is ours." Said Zahidul Haque Zahin, one of the participants of the DRockstars.

The top 10 finalists will get the chance to record an album with Ayub Bachchu. The album will be launched on the December 16, Victory Day, this year. The winners will also participate in a live concert with Bachchu. They will perform in shows all over the country with Bachchu as well.

Channel-i, the media partner of the competition, will telecast a 12-episode TV programme based on the audition process from fourth week of this month.