A YOUNG Lanarkshire singer is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Lady Gaga and Adele by taking part in an international competition.

Si Si Rae from Uddingston is one of 100 musicians who have been nominated in MTV's Brand New Unsigned for 2014 contest; a viewer-led search for the best new music across the globe.

Now in its sixth year, the contest has helped to shine a spotlight on stars such as Jessie J, Adele, Lady Gaga and Tinie Tempah, and Si Si Rae hopes to be next to join the ranks of superstardom.

The 22-year-old said: "MTV has already chosen the final 100 so it's good to be at that stage; it's just such a big thing to even be nominated for it.

"I'm excited that people who go on to vote and look at the website will hear my songs as well. Even if I got through to the Top 50 or top 10, I would be over the moon."

Si Si, who previously worked as a PR for a Glasgow nightclub, has always been interested in music and attended the Oxford School of Music as a child.

She was spotted by her manager Ross Cooney last year, and was whisked into the studio to record her latest single Freak, which was released last month.

The tune has been championed by presenter Jim Gellatly on his shows on Amazing Radio and In Demand Uncut.

Following her performance at Live@Troon during the summer, Si Si was chosen to perform at Celebrate the MOBOS, an industry event held to celebrate the award's 18th anniversary.

She is now focusing less on West End musicals and has performed her new single in nightclubs and concert halls across the country, including the Glasgow Barrowlands. For more information on how to vote for Si Si, visit www.brandnewunsigned.mtv.co.uk/act/sisirae

hannah.rodger@eveningtimes.co.uk