AN ASPIRING rapper from Worcester has taken his first step towards music stardom.

Tudor Grange Academy pupil Finn Allen has progressed to the regional finals of Open Mic UK.

Finn, 11, was inspired by the likes of Macklemore, Rizzlekicks and Eminem and wowed judges with his first performance.

He will take to the stage at the NEC in Birmingham next month.

The youngster was inspired to start rapping by his pal Olly Hoinville.

Finn, who lives with his mum Sarah in Warndon, said: "One of my friends liked Rizzlekicks and said 'you've got to listen to them'.

"So I started to listen and then begun rapping along.

"I had to practise rapping at first, but after a while I really picked it up."

Finn signed up for the competition, which pits amateur stars against each other, as a taster of what he hopes will be a successful career.

Before his first performance in front of four judges, Finn admitted to being "very nervous".

But his performance clearly impress the panel, who put him through to the West Midlands final, where he plans to perform Can't Hold Us by Macklemore.

He explained: "I want to rap when I'm older and wanted to perform on stage, so I thought [Open Mic] was a perfect opportunity to do that.

"I've been counting down every day on my calendar and practising every day.

"It's a good experience, we've invited lots of my friends so I'll have lots of support there.

"I hope I can win, but I'll just give it my best shot and it's my first time doing this so the experience is good anyway."

In the future, Finn hopes to emulate his idols and forge a music career of his own.

"I'd like to be as big as Rizzlekicks and be able to release singles and go and tour.

"Maybe even not as big as them, but at least be on the radio and be able to bring out my songs."

Sarah, 44, who works as a nurse, said: "It's been really good for his confidence.

"But I've got absolutely no idea where Finn's rapping skills come from."