GEORGE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS - Over the years George has boasted a number of talented musicians who have received national and international recognition. The latest Georgian to join the ranks is the multi-talented Jade van Blerk (20), a former York High learner, who now lives in Cape Town.

Jade has already achieved success in the creative makeup field, having been a finalist in the Bokeh International creative makeup contest in 2018, and lead make-up artist for the kykNet TV series Maklik met Marinda.

Recently she has attracted the attention of the international music industry with her lyrical talents.

While doing the makeup and costume on the set of a music video for celebrity German musician Ben Zucker, Jade met the vice-president of Universal Music for Africa and Central Europe, Joe Chialo. Chialo recognised her musical talent, both in singing as well as songwriting.

After a few months of negotiations, Jade has now been signed up as a music author by Sony ATV Music, the world's largest entertainment company. This will see her realising a lifelong dream of writing songs in the Christian music genre to be released worldwide through their artist network.

Universal Music Group's Airforce 1 records, with Chialo as managing director, has also offered Jade a contract to perform her own songs under their label.

Jade recently spent a week in Mannheim, Germany, working with various music producers on her debut album. 

"I felt so privileged to be able to work with such talented people who brought my music to life. When I arrived back in South Africa, I realised there was no doubt in my mind that this is God's calling for me, and I want to chase that dream with everything I've got," she said.

Jade will take some time out of her make-up career to work on the rest of her album, which will be recorded and produced both in South Africa and Germany.

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