Vybz Kartel - File

Deejay Vybz Kartel is hunting new talent for his Portmore Empire in the form of a talent search, which will take place tonight at The Building in New Kingston.

The 'Gaza Talent Search' will take the place of the recently removed 'Fresh Fridays' in The Building.

Speaking to THE STAR recently, Kartel explained how the search came about. "The teacha has always been bussing artistes, but the idea for doing an official talent search came from my Street Vybz pawdie, Corey Todd (owner of the Building)."

In a release sent to THE STAR, Corey Todd added: "The search will start this Friday and continue every Friday until January. We will be searching for selectors, deejays, singjays and female dance groups."

According to Kartel, the finals will be held in December and the winners will be announced and signed by January. An application form, Kartel said, will be made available at The Building where persons can sign up.

"The judge will ultimately be the crowd. We will be monitoring and will have the final say, though."

What is Kartel looking for in his latest additions to the Portmore Empire? He said, "I'm looking for original sounds like me and Popcaan, just be original and fresh." Todd said the talent search is a real chance for an entertainer to buss in the business. The show will be hosted by Boasy Boy Floyd and excerpts of the show will be aired on Hype TV.

cash prize

Each winner will be signed to the Portmore Empire and receive a cash prize of $250,000

Known for breaking new acts such as Gaza Slim, Popcaan, Blak Ryno, Jah Vinci, Gaza Indu, Merital Family and Lisa Hype, Kartel said young members of the Empire are doing well.