Following the launch of Unsung Heroes 2022, a competition offering seven warm-up DJs around the world the chance to become Defected's newest residents for 2022, we are delighted to announce that out of an impressive collection of submissions, we have announced our winners.
Supported by Pioneer, Unsung Heroes will provide our talented winners with access to Defected's growing community of dedicated househeads through residencies overseas and live streamed events. Launched back in February 2022, entrants were asked to submit a 60-min DJ mix as well as a recommendation from a club owner, promoter or established DJ in support of their contribution to their local music scene. Shortlisted artists were then chosen from the entries based on their mixing expertise, track selections and experience as a warm-up DJ.
With the judging panel, Roger Sanchez, Cinthie, Yousef, Sef Kombo, Melvo Baptiste, Sam Divine and Mambo Brothers having reviewed the entries with great deliberation, it is our pleasure to announce that the winners of Unsung Heroes 2022 are:
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“This competition offers a real opportunity for the unsung heroes of house music culture. A chance for those resident DJ’s who work so tirelessly to entertain on a regular basis to be seen and to claim a spot on line ups alongside their musical heroes.” – Wez Saunders, MD
Unlike any other DJ competition or search for talent before it, Unsung Heroes is all about recognising the vital part resident DJs play in the makeup of clubland and giving recognition to the often under-appreciated art of the warm-up set.
With an array of all-star judges across the breadth of the house music recruited to help with the search, Unsung Heroes is a statement of Defected’s dedication to investing in and nurturing the scene's up-and-coming talent.
