The news arrived quietly, but the significance feels enormous. ‘Boy’ has won First Prize for Original Composition at the UK International Music Competition 2025 Season 3, organised by the World Online Music Competitions Organization (WOMCO).
This recognition comes at a particularly meaningful moment. ‘Boy’ represents one of my most transformed tracks—what began as simple guitar compositions in my flat evolved into something entirely different through studio collaboration. The original version felt incomplete until we completely reimagined it with additional synths and hip hop influences that brought the song to life.
WOMCO’s mission of “shaping a modern world where musicians shine” resonates deeply with my own artistic journey. Their online platform creates space for artists across borders to share work without traditional industry gatekeeping. Competitions like these matter because they celebrate original composition and artistic risk-taking rather than commercial appeal.
The track itself explores relationship complexity through that central lyric: “Don’t need your heart I need your brain.” Writing honestly about emotional territory remains challenging, but awards like this suggest the vulnerability pays off when it connects with listeners and judges alike.
What strikes me about this recognition is its international scope. WOMCO connects musicians globally, creating community around shared creative values rather than geographical proximity. Winning amongst international submissions feels particularly validating for someone creating music “between worlds” as I do.
The accompanying music video, directed by Daniel Kim, required tremendous collaborative effort. Perhaps that dedication to complete artistic vision contributed to the competition success.
Recognition from established music organizations provides encouragement to continue pushing creative boundaries. This award affirms that taking artistic risks and refusing to settle for safe choices can lead to meaningful achievement.
Thank you to WOMCO for creating platforms where original music can flourish internationally.
— Indie pop artist, musician Anastasiia Ledovskaia