Barnet open mic night Ellaguru held in memory of young musician Anthony Diktion Bayele

The Diktion Project was set up in memory of aspiring musician Anthony ‘Diktion’ Bayele, 22, who died suddenly in November, days before releasing his second EP.

The project works to give other young musicians in Barnet the funds and support Mr Bayele lacked to produce their music and boost their careers.

Now the group has teamed up with “select” open mic night Ellaguru, which scouts budding musicians likely to impress agents and representatives from record labels.

Mr Bayele’s best friend Joe Tanner, 22, said it was “great” to be involved in the event.

He added: “The people who run Ellaguru were looking for a charity partner and they stumbled upon the Diktion Project and were impressed with what we do.

“It’s going to be fantastic for us to be involved in this. It’s an opportunity for us to reach a much wider audience and continue Anthony’s legacy.”

Half the funds raised from the event would go to the project and Mr Tanner added the team working on the Diktion Project had expanded and they were helping more and more young musicians.

He said: “We’re expecting to raise about £200 from the event, which will buy ten hours' recording time. This can be used for an EP or to give an artist a chance to make a video.

“Anthony will be very proud of what we are doing. It’s hard to believe he died nine months ago. But we’re going strong and our work does not stop here.”

The open mic night comes a week after coroners ruled Anthony had died of a hospital acquired infection after taking an overdose of non-prescribed medication.

Mr Tanner said he was shocked to hear the verdict but said it did not change what had happened.

He added: “Doctors could maybe have worked more quickly to save Anthony. It’s upsetting but it doesn’t change things.

“We’re still going to work hard to keep Anthony’s legacy alive.”

The event is tonight at the Oliver Conquest pub in Aldgate East. To book tickets call Mr Tanner on 07782 221344.