Tampa-based musician Luciano Mendonca has been selected to compete in America's Next Top Hitmaker, a national talent search that could result in a performance at the prestigious Global Citizen Festival in Central Park.
Mendonca's musical journey is deeply intertwined with personal resilience. After being displaced by Hurricane Helene, he transformed his experience into a powerful narrative of healing and hope through his music. His latest single, "My Platonic Love," exemplifies his ability to create emotionally resonant pop anthems that blend 80s-inspired sounds with contemporary musical elements.
The competition, powered by Colossal and supported by notable organizations like Rolling Stone, Global Citizen, SoundCloud, and Fender, relies on public voting to determine which artists advance. For Mendonca, this opportunity represents more than a potential career milestone; it's a chance to amplify a message of unity, love, and positive social change.
With a musical background that spans multiple genres and includes previous work with Sony Music Entertainment, Mendonca brings a unique multi-instrumental perspective to his craft. His upcoming musical projects include plans for an innovative electronic performance set and a full-length pop album expected by late 2025 or early 2026.
The Global Citizen Festival provides a platform not just for musical talent, but for artists committed to addressing global challenges such as poverty and sustainability. Mendonca's participation underscores the potential of music as a transformative medium for social engagement and personal expression.
