Merseyside music prize, The GIT Award, has revealed the winner of this year’s coveted ‘One To Watch Prize’ as teenage prodigy Tayá.

Signed to Atlantic Records, Tayá has been quietly kicking up a storm on the Merseyside music scene having played Liverpool Sound City, FestEvol and a range of high profile support slots before developing her sound and switching her time between Liverpool, London and the United States.

Yaw Owusu, of Liverpool International Music Festival and GIT Award judge, said:

“Tayá is one of the most exciting talents coming from the city right now. Developing somewhat under the radar for some time, it’s clear she has the total package and we, as a panel, are certain she will make an impact from the off. Make sure you keep your eyes and ears on this young lady!”

Tayá’s offerings have been tipped nationally, and she has made transatlantic trips to work with super producer Rodney Jerkins, the man enlisted by the likes of Beyoncé, Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston.

She will celebrate her ‘One To Watch win’ with a live performance at the GIT Award 2016 ceremony on Saturday May 14.

Tayá, who was born in Toxteth, follows on from previous GIT Award ‘Ones To Watch’ Låpsley (2014), who has just released her debut album and completed a world tour; and Louis Berry (2015), who is recording his debut in Nashville.

Getintothis’ Peter Guy, founder of the GIT Award, said:

“I first saw Tayá in the upstairs loft of the Barfly several years ago, she was raw, completely fresh and slightly unaware of her own ability. But it was immediately obvious there was an innate talent at work. What’s unfolded in the interim years is a young woman who’s blossoming into an artist with not just the necessary skill to succeed but the artistry to find her own particular unique voice. Tayá is truly special, a One To Watch, and more.”