Aboriginal musical talent was in the spotlight at the Made Deadly open-mic sessions in Taree.
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The Manning was one of seven locations to host the talent quest this year.
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Made Deadly is a Triple J Unearthed-style project that uncovers and gives a platform to incredible Aboriginal musical talent across the Mid North Coast.
It is a joint collaboration between Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance (SWFW) and music development organisation Grow the Music (GTM), and its inaugural 2018 success saw it grow to more locations this year.
Taree guitarist and singer-songwriter Michael Saunders was a finalist last year, while the Manning's Luca Saunders, Jay Davis and Joan McDonald were all chosen as wildcards.
All had the opportunity to perform at the Saltwater Freshwater Festival on Australia Day this year at Coffs Harbour.
Mick said it was one of the greatest experiences he has ever experienced.
"I'll keep singing for the sake of singing but when this opportunity came I stepped up and I had a go at it and then lo and behold...we get this phone call to say Mick, you won. The joy in my heart, knowing I've still got it."
Made Deadly open mic sessions are being held in Taree, Coffs Harbour, Bowraville, Kempsey, Port Macquarie, Forster and Karuah.
From these live sessions a total of eight performers will be selected to perform at SWFW Festival on Australia Day 2020.
The final eight will receive studio time to professionally record one of their tracks and mentoring and rehearsal time with a high-profile Aboriginal music mentor and the GTM team.
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