Gerry Boyle looks for talent after Susan showed the way

Published on Tuesday 21 July 2009 09:46

SUSAN Boyle's brother is to launch an X-Factor style talent competition in Edinburgh following the creation of his own record label.

Gerry Boyle, 55, from Musselburgh, announced today he will give musicians the chance to become fully-fledged recording artists when they take part in the competition at the Dominion theatre, in Morningside, next month.

Mr Boyle did not confirm whether his sister, who was runner-up in ITV's Britain's Got Talent this year, would be part of the venture but revealed he was in talks with her management and was confident their paths may cross professionally "in the future".

He said: "Who knows? At the moment Susan is as happy as a child in a sweet shop. She's doing well."

Mr Boyle, who is married with one son, launched An Instant World today – a multi-sector business modelled on Richard Branson's Virgin. The company, based at the Gyle, includes the record label Instant Music, a bank and motor insurance services, as well as many other ventures.

Mr Boyle insisted he had been working on the business model for many years, long before his sister rose to worldwide fame following her first appearance on Britain's Got Talent. But he was happy to accept that as the face of An Instant World, his sister's fame may prove advantageous.

He said: "It's inevitable people are going to know me as Susan's brother – that's already happening. But hopefully they will eventually recognise me for doing this. It's certainly not going to do any harm being her brother though."

Final details for August's talent competition have not yet been released, but the event is expected to take place mid-month, giving musicians an opportunity to become signed to Mr Boyle's label.

The businessman has a long history in the music world, having performed as a cabaret artist before launching a varied career, which has included working with Sir David Frost on the television show Through the Keyhole in the 1990s.

He said: "I used to sing a lot, but I didn't sing with Susan. I have also worked with a few people who have gone on to be famous.

"As for the talent show, we're hoping to start the auditions next month and we are looking for the next big thing."

Mr Boyle is also launching "Business in a Box", offering new companies support in their first year of business, as well as a 5000 financial boost to get started.

He said: "There is nothing like this at the moment and we are going to be helping businesses get back on their feet."