Chic star Nile Rodgers has been tapped to mentor the up-and-coming musicians in the running for the Rising Star Ivor Novello Award.
In addition to his hugely successful solo career with Chic, with hits including Everybody Dance and Le Freak, Nile has worked with classic acts including Madonna, Duran Duran, Debbie Harry, and Sheila B. Devotion.
Now, he’s set to put his know how to the test, and share years of experience with young musicians as part of the Ivor Novello Awards new scheme.
Along with composers David Arnold and Carmel Smickersgill, songwriter Fraser T Smith, and singer-songwriter Kamille, Nile will nurture one of five finalists up for the title.
He’s been paired with soul singer-songwriter Amahla, who was one of thousands of applicants – 60% of which were entries made by female music creators.
The finalists will each spend a year on the programme, in association with Apple Music, and the winner of the accolade will be announced at the Ivor Novello Awards on September 2nd.