Rapper Randa has taken out the Critics' Choice Prize, scoring a $10,000 grant and industry mentoring. The 21-year-old musician from Auckland’s North Shore beat folk artist Lake South and soul singer Estere to win the award at the King's Arms in Auckland last night. "Yo, I'm really like blown away," Randa said on accepting the prize, which recognises up-and-coming artists and potential future Tui recipients. Randa, real name Mainard Larkin, identifies as a trans man and is influenced by throwback movies, TV and pop culture. The rapper’s had a breakout couple of years, performing at the Big Day Out, and opening for Grimes and Crystal Castles.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Thursday, 30th October 2014 - 7:52am