A Mitcham rapper will perform at a national awards ceremony this weekend after being nominated for an award along with the likes of Rita Ora, Emily Sande and Labrinth. 

Richard Abiona, who performs as Fuse ODG, has been nominated for best Afrobeat act at the 10th Urban Music Awards 2012 where he will also perform on Saturday night.

The rapper was flung into the spot light after his single Asonto attracted more than a million hits on YouTube.

Early work on the single, named after a traditional Ghanaian dance, was done with help from young people at the Escape youth group in Phipp’s Bridge which was founded by Mr Abiona and friend Andre Hackett.

Rita Ora is currently leading the way with seven nominations at the awards which will take place on December 1.

To vote for Fuse ODG visit urbanmusicawards.net/united-kingdom/voting