OPEN SuperApp, the innovative platform that seamlessly blends social commerce, messaging, creator communities, and AI into one ad-free space, has officially announced the top 5 finalists for the final round of its inaugural OPEN Verse independent music competition. This finale marks a monumental moment for AAPI voices in the music industry, as it is the first-of-its-kind competition dedicated to amplifying AAPI talent and empowering the next generation of artists.
The finalists will compete for a life-changing $10,000 cash prize, a distribution deal with Empire Records, free studio time at the AVEX Studio Compound, and the unique opportunity to collaborate on a brand-new song with renowned producer and judge, Brian Lee. The finalists include a line-up of artists who have worked with the likes of Jung Kook and V from BTS, Jay Park, and more:
Ahead of the live performance on December 15th, the finalists will receive exclusive mentorship from an esteemed panel of AAPI music industry luminaries, who will also serve as judges during the finale:
- Madison Love (Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez, Katy Perry, Kim Petras)
- Verbal (Japanese rapper – Kanye West, Pharrell, Kylie Minogue)
- Brian Lee (DJ Snake, BLACKPINK, Justin Bieber, Post Malone, Lady Gaga)
- Jeffrey Yoo (Senior VP at Empire, recently signed G-Dragon)
- True Smith (Label & International Director at Avex USA)
- Hajime Harada (A&R, Publishing, and International at Avex USA)
The competition will also feature a special guest performance by Spencer Lee (88Rising, Ear Drummers Entertainment).
Conceived by OPEN’s Alison Boya Sun who led the AAPI crew, Eastern Standard Times, in Red Bull’s Culture Clash NYC last June, OPEN Verse celebrates the diversity and power of AAPI voices within the music industry. By offering both emerging and established AAPI talent the opportunity to shine on a national stage, OPEN Verse provides AAPI artists with unparalleled mentorship, resources, and a platform to showcase their talents. OPEN SuperApp is leading the charge in transforming the music landscape into a more inclusive, dynamic space for all.
The OPEN Verse finale will take place on December 15th from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM PST at ResidentLA in Los Angeles, CA and will also be streamed live on Twitch and YouTube.
To purchase a ticket, PRESS HERE, download the OPEN SuperApp, and create an account. Join us for this unforgettable evening of music, mentorship, and innovation.
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Of late, 360 MAGAZINE had an opportunity to have a sit down with OPEN’s founder, Eric Tu.
- What inspired the Super App? How does it differ from platforms like Sonicbids and Reverbnation?
Open Super App was inspired by the challenges creators face in the modern creator economy. Many indie artists struggle to monetize their music and art effectively—streaming revenue alone, and it is often insufficient to sustain their livelihoods. Our platform is designed to empower these artists by providing solutions tailored to their needs. We offer a free merch solution with no upfront costs and a platform where their work can gain visibility among fans and industry leaders. Unlike other platforms, Open Super App focuses on creating multiple streams of revenue for artists, blending e-commerce, branding, and industry connections into one ecosystem.
- How important is it for an artist to have distribution, merchandise, and proper branding?
Distribution ensures an artist’s work reaches the right audience—visibility is key. Branding, however, is what makes that audience stay and engage. For example, Sabrina Carpenter had been in the industry for years with limited recognition, but her rebrand transformed her career and helped her go viral. Merchandise is equally vital as it provides one of the fastest ways for artists to monetize their work. Music is not just an art form; it’s a business. Today’s artists need more than just talent—they need a business mindset to approach their careers like startups, leveraging tools like branding and merch to build sustainable income.
- Currently, you’re running a competition for a $10,000 prize. How will this help amplify an artist’s talents, merchandise, and music?
The $10,000 prize can be a game-changer for an indie artist. It provides the financial flexibility to invest in their growth—whether by hiring a skilled producer, creating high-quality merch, or launching a targeted marketing campaign. This funding can help amplify their work, expand their reach, and position them as serious contenders in the music industry.
- Is there anything we haven’t touched on that you would like to mention?
Yes, at Open Super App, we’re not just building a platform; we’re cultivating a community. Our mission is to empower creators to take control of their careers while connecting them with fans, industry leaders, and innovative tools. We believe that by providing these resources, we’re helping to redefine what’s possible for indie artists in today’s creator economy.
Follow Eric Tu on Instagram.
