On Thursday, April 24, 2025, the regional final Auvergne Rhône-Alpes of the Buzz Booster contest took place at Bizarre ! in Venissieux, gathering the emerging talents of local rap. This essential event aimed to shine a light on promising artists from the hip-hop scene, with the added opportunity to secure a spot for the national final scheduled for June in Marseille. At the heart of this competition, we had the privilege of meeting two finalists, Noreah and LUPI’O, whose distinct and captivating musical universes captivated both the audience and the jury. In these exclusive interviews, let’s discover the aspirations and thoughts of these artists on their journey and their vision of music.
On Thursday, April 24, 2025, the stage at Bizarre ! in Vénissieux vibrated to the rhythm of emerging rap talents during the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes regional final of the Buzz Booster contest. This colorful event provided a glimpse into the unique universes of several promising artists. Among them, Noreah and LUPI’O stood out with their captivating performances. This article delves into their journeys, inspirations, and immediate impressions after this intense moment on stage.
Buzz Booster: a springboard for emerging artists
Launched in 2010, the Buzz Booster contest aims to detect and support rap talents, whether solo or in groups. This initiative has established a valuable place in the French musical landscape, emerging as a true catalyst for careers. This regional final represents a true showcase for these artists; they all aspire to secure a spot for the national final scheduled for June in Marseille.
The artists are evaluated on their ability to perform, to create a connection with the audience, and the intensity of their musical universe. The four finalists of this edition, Noreah, UVA, Torea, and LUPI’O, had the opportunity to deliver a twenty-minute set. The receptive audience participated in this celebration of music, offering a warm and supportive atmosphere.
Meeting with Noreah: between boldness and versatility
Moments after her performance, Noreah opened up about her emotions. “Euphoric!”, she said. The artist started her show in the middle of the audience, a bold entrance that surprised many spectators. Her ability to create a bond with her audience is palpable. “We had already tried this approach during the qualifier in Grenoble; it’s a way for me to get closer to those who listen,” she explained.
Her repertoire, which blends RnB, Soul, and rap, allows her to navigate between varied sounds. With a powerful voice and undeniable charisma, she impresses with her stage presence. She has made a mark with her boldness, revealing an unexpected stylistic diversity, and even a turn towards freestyle, an essential part of her artistic personality.
The artistic choices and vision of Noreah
Regarding her set, she emphasizes: “I started with rap; it’s a return to my roots.” This blend of genres is an integral part of her musical identity. Noreah is convinced that versatility is an asset in the world of hip-hop while respecting the uniqueness of each artist. “I do not intend to limit myself. I evolve, I like to explore different universes, and I think it’s essential,” she asserts.
LUPI’O: a rap of pure tradition and contagious energy
On his side, LUPI’O brought a more traditional touch, rooted in the essentials of rap. His performance managed to captivate an audience in search of authenticity. “The stage is the culmination of a piece,” he declares passionately. For him, each concert is an opportunity for sharing. “This is where I realize how hard I’ve worked to defend my pieces,” he adds while reflecting on his connection with the audience.
At the final, LUPI’O conveyed that unique energy; his ability to create a connection with the audience ignited the room. His musical choices reflect his personality, oscillating between his recent tracks and classics from boom bap. “Twenty minutes is short, but I wanted to give the maximum energy,” he noted after his performance.
A vision of today’s rap
For LUPI’O, stepping onto the stage means exposing himself to those discovering his art. “I feel serene on stage; I no longer need to plan every move,” he asserts. The passion he has for traditional rap shines through in his music, but he is also aware of the new trends emerging. “I am between these two identities. I listen to everything,” he admits, ready to bring a modern touch to his compositions.
Musical conclusion: a promise for the future
The AuRa Buzz Booster 2025 regional final was a remarkable evening, highlighting the artistic talents of the region. With dazzling performances and artists with a promising future, this competition continues to shape the musical landscape. These exclusive meetings with Noreah and LUPI’O testify to the dynamism and creativity of the current rap scene, ready to conquer new horizons.
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IN BRIEF
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The regional final Auvergne Rhône-Alpes of the Buzz Booster contest in 2025 was a true springboard for emerging rap talents. Held at the heart of the hip-hop scene at Bizarre ! in Vénissieux, the event highlighted artists with varied universes, reflecting the richness of the local scene. Under a sky vibrant with energy, finalists Noreah and LUPI’O captivated the audience with their unique performances, each illustrating in their way the potential of urban music.
The interview with Noreah reveals an artist blossoming, oscillating between RnB, rap, and soul. Her ability to evolve musically while remaining true to her roots has impressed the jury, who qualified her in a surprising turn. Noreah embodies versatility and reminds us that rap can be combined with different influences, generating an original and authentic sound, as she pointed out during her time on stage.
On the other hand, LUPI’O, with his style of pure rap, recalls the importance of grounding one’s experience in tradition while embracing the evolution of the genre. His intense and connected performance established a palpable bond, proving that the stage remains the best mirror of artistic work. Through his words, he demonstrates that each concert is a celebration and validation of his efforts.
In summary, this regional final not only showcased the raw talent of the artists but also resonated with a broader movement in the musical landscape. The rap scene in Auvergne Rhône-Alpes continues to grow and evolve, creating a promising future for its players. The testimonies of Noreah and LUPI’O carry a message of hope and creativity, offering an inspiring vision for the next steps in their journey. Buzz Booster asserts itself as an essential catalyst for artists, creating a vibrant artistic emulation throughout the region.
