SA singer Lisa Good takes third place in American contest

At least two of the adjudicators at the event, prominent American producers Mystro and Ghanaian-born Eric 'Coptic' Matlock, felt that Lisa Good has a bright future in the global music industry.

Hailing from Lamontville near Durban, the 25-year-old singer impressed the American judges with her exciting single ‘Happy World (Haybo)’ and its accompanying music video, which came out on top at the Coast 2 Coast Music Video Showcase in February. The track is currently playlisted in the UK, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Namibia, although it is still to be picked up by major radio stations at home in South Africa (despite the SABC's recent steps to play 90% local music).

Lisa’s success at the American showcase comes after her record label, Xhentsa Entertainment, decided to test the international waters after seeing the response whenever the song was played. “We were surprised when the results came back positive and she had been selected in the Artist and Video Showcase for this year in New York,” said Xhentsa’s Sakhele Mzalazala.

“This was an opportunity I couldn't miss,” said Lisa about entering the contest. “I just took the chance of entering my song for Coast 2 Coast because I know how big they are in the USA. They help boost artists’ careers to higher levels in the music industry.

“Honestly, I didn't think I'd get chosen because they are more into hip-hop than the music I make, so imagine my surprise when I got a call from them telling me I'm selected and they are loving my music. I want to make my mark in the industry - and this news was just crazy!”

Apart from the online entries, Coast 2 Coast Live travels to over 10 cities in the USA every month, looking for the hottest new talent. All artists receive scores and written feedback from the guest judges, including ways to improve their songs and performances. Contestants were judged on their originality, quality, marketability, presence and potential. Click here to see how the adjudicators marked Lisa.

Lisa returns to South Africa on Tuesday 31 May, landing at OR Tambo International Airport at around 8:30pm. She plans to get straight to work finishing off her debut full-length album.

More about Coast 2 Coast in the video below.