A RAPPER from Northolt has made it through to the regional finals of a national music competition.

Milan Parmar, 19, will be performing in the live showcase of Open Mic UK 2013 at the Beck Theatre in Hayes on Sunday, October 6.

The hip hop writer, who lives off Church Road, auditioned earlier this month with hundreds of other solo artists of different genres competing for a place.

Mr Parmar, working at TM Lewin in central London, said this is the first time he has gone on stage.

He said: “It’s great being in competition because I can see other people out there which motivates me.

“I would feel great if I got through this round. It would make me feel like my craft actually means something to an audience and the judges but at the end of the day I will stay humble.

“Writing lyrics and true stories makes me feel better. I can use my experiences and those of others to help people in society.”

The 19-year-old lives with his mother and two sisters aged 25 and 22 and said they are all supporting him in every step of the way and like the music he creates.

Mr Parmar, who is currently unsigned, has been writing for about seven years and has two mix tapes out called Just Another Kid and Real Minds Of The City.

His influences include Kendrick Lamar, Biggie and J Cole.

He said: “Several years ago family and friends told me to go to open mic nights but I wasn’t ready as an artist, but this year I thought I could be successful.”

Auditions were held at the Beck Theatre on August 18 and entrants were notified the same day.

After the regionals come the area finals before the competition culminates in a grand final taking place at the O2 Arena, with a chance of acts being signed.

Open Mic UK is presented by Future Music, the company behind the development of artists such as Warner Music’s Birdy, Jahmene Douglas and Lucy Spraggan.

Events coordinator and head of Future Music, Chris Grayston, said “Every year that we hold this competition the bar is raised.

“We’re really looking forward to experiencing raw talent from across the country.

“Open Mic UK provides a real opportunity to open the door to a music career by showcasing their talent to music industry professionals and audiences across the country.”