WOULD-BE pop stars had the chance to shine before one of the music industry's most successful managers, when he visited a studio.

Genius Entertainment, in Stanley, County Durham, was asked to showcase performers for US businessman Richard Rashman, who is behind successful bands Busted, McFly and V.

Mr Rashman, who runs Los Angeles music management company Prestige Management, watched ten acts, aged between 14 and 17 and ranging from solo musicians to bands.

They performed at Genius Entertainment's complex on the Ever Ready Industrial Park, in Tanfield Lea, near Stanley.

One of those who impressed the pop svengali was drummer Matthew Connor, 17, who lives near Stanley.

Mr Rashman, who was in the North-East for McFly's gig at Newcastle City Hall last Thursday, is seeking musicians for a project that already has a recording contract with Universal Music.

Adam Chetter, of Genius Entertainment, said: "The hard work we have done in developing the company is paying off.

"It is great for North-East music talent that the big players are now coming to us to source out talent for their major projects."

Mr Rashman was looking for musicians to form a new guitar-based pop band.

"He was really impressed by what he saw," said Mr Chetter.

The company selected perfomers from its iD Programme of artist development and last year's talentSTAR Tour of North-East schools and colleges.

Published: 04/10/2004