1. The Famous Trio in US Singing Competitions

American Idol

American Idol launched in 2002, and it is a reference in the United States. They’re known for discovering talents like Kelly Clarkson. If you’re interested in auditioning for the show you can apply via the official American Idol website, where you’ll find all the informations you need. 🙂 Adam Lambert, the show’s runner-up who later toured with Queen, is one of the LGBTQ+ artists who changed the music industry.

The Voice

The Voice features blind auditions where coaches turn their chairs based solely on vocal talent. Applicants can audition through open calls or submit videos via the official casting site.

America’s Got Talent

You don’t need to be a singer to join America’s Got Talent. Singers and other kinds of performers can show their skills. People apply by sending a video on the website, and if they are chosen, they get to audition live.

Quick reminder: it’s not just about the big names! There are many singing competitions that offer unique opportunities for artists to shine. These shows welcome a variety of talents, from hidden gems to seasoned pros.

2. Pros and Cons of Participating in Singing Competitions

Pros

• Exposure: Shows like American Idol and The Voice really put you in the spotlight! Candidates often see a big boost in their social media followers and get loads of media attention. Just look at Jennifer Hudson – she totally blew up after her time on the show!
• Networking Opportunities: Competing gives you the chance to meet some big names in the industry, like judges and guest mentors. They can offer awesome advice and might even help you land some game-changing opportunities. Take Adam Levine from The Voice, for example; he’s known for helping contestants even after the show wraps up.

Cons

• Typecasting: Sometimes, winning a competition can lead to being typecast into a specific genre or image that the show highlights. This can make it tough for artists to explore their creativity and redefine who they are musically.
• Specific closures: While being on a singing competition can be a fantastic launchpad for your career, there are some things to think about. Winners might have to sign with record labels linked to the show, which could mean less creative control over their music than they had before the competition.

3. Success Stories

Let’s get inspired by musicians who have used talent competitions to kickstart their careers:

Brooke Mills Simpson (The Voice & America’s Got Talent):

Meet Brooke Mills Simpson! She’s an awesome American singer who really made a name for herself when she snagged third place on the thirteenth season of The Voice—and she was on Team Miley Cyrus, how cool is that?

In 2021, she tried out for season 16 of America’s Got Talent and totally wowed all four judges.

She even hit the Broadway stage, playing Roger Sherman in the revival of 1776 at the American Repertory Theater in Boston, and then took that role to the American Airlines Theatre in New York. In 2023, she jumped into the national tour of the show as the Courier. Brooke is definitely one to watch!

Harry Styles (X Factor) :

Harry Styles was on The X Factor in 2010. He is known for being in One Direction.

He released his first solo album, Harry Styles, in 2017 through Columbia Records, which rapidly achieved a top ten position in both the UK and US charts. In 2019, he launched his second album, Fine Line, which reached the pinnacle of global charts. In early 2022, he debuted the single “As It Was,” leading to his third album, Harry’s House.

Brynn Cartelli (The Voice): 

Let me tell you about Brynn Cartelli, a super talented pop artist from the U.S. She made waves at just 15 years old when she snagged the title of the youngest winner of The Voice in its 14th season, with none other than Kelly Clarkson as her mentor! After her big win, she signed with Atlantic Records and even got to open for Kelly on the Meaning of Life Tour. How cool is that?

Fast forward to 2021, Brynn dropped her first EP, Based on a True Story, which totally rocked the charts, hitting number nine on iTunes and racking up over 25 million streams on Spotify!

And guess what? At the start of 2024, she released “Boy From Home” along with her debut album Out of the Blue! She’s been promoting it with some exciting appearances on the Today Show and MTV. Brynn is definitely one to watch!

Camila Cabello (X Factor): 

Back in 2011, she jumped into the second season of The X Factor in the U.S., where she met some pretty amazing people like Lauren Jauregui, Dinah Jane Hansen, Normani Kordei, and Ally Brooke Hernandez. Together, they formed the awesome group Fifth Harmony!

After leaving the group, she launched her solo career. Her 2018 album, Camila, had a huge success and showcased her Latin musical influences. The album achieved significant success on the Billboard 200, while her single “Havana” became a major hit, topping the charts in both the US and the UK.

Currently, she stands as one of the main figures in pop music, receiving recognition, including a recent nomination for a VMA this year.

4. You should consider other kinds of music career boosters too!

When it comes to boosting your music career, it’s not just about singing competitions. There are also chances to play at festivals, get artist residencies, or land opportunities to get your music in front of a much bigger audience.

Let’s talk about how Groover fits right in with the article. It’s simple and straightforward. It is an easygoing way to connect with the right people.

Here’s how Groover can help:

Connect Easily: Groover is a simple tool to connect your music with industry professionals.

Reliable Feedback: Groover has your back. Share your music and get some friendly feedback from the community, before sending your video to TV casters for example. 

Groover regularly offers opportunities to play at festivals, get artist residencies… —sometimes free, sometimes paid—it depends. So, we definitely recommend checking it out often!

👇

Conclusion

Singing competitions can serve as an excellent launchpad for your music career. They provide significant exposure, opportunities to connect with others, and important experiences. However, it’s important to recognize that the journey may not be entirely positive; there are potential challenges, such as the risk of being typecast and coping with the pressures of fame. Therefore, if you are an aspiring singer, it is wise to consider these factors thoughtfully. Evaluate the advantages in relation to how they could influence your artistic path.

—

Promote your music now 👇

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Music contests highlight emerging artists in a way that is welcoming, exciting and fun. These can come in the form of open calls for selected artists to perform at an event such as a local show or festival, studio session giveaways, live session filming opportunities, and various other prizes. If you’ve never played a show or want to hone your stage presence, showcase opportunities are truly the most inviting entry into music performance possible, whether you play instrument or not – there is no excuse not to go for it! If you’re aiming for festival stages, here’s how to get booked at music festivals through their own application calls.

The local music scene thrives off of new faces, and new artists thrive off of the scene. No matter the genre – folk, rock, pop, electronic, you name it – there’s something for everyone.

Here is a selection of the most current and exciting music contests for you – so start applying now! ✌️

Are you looking for a booker to play live and help you apply for contests?

Send your tracks on Groover and contact the best bookers, labels, media outlets and music professionals – and apply to exclusive music contests. Guaranteed feedback in less than 7 days!

🇬🇧 Play at Aelius Alternative Festival 2027 in Newcastle

Apply to play at Aelius Alternative on Saturday, 17 April 2027 in Newcastle. Now in its fourth edition, this one-day festival takes over three of the city’s key grassroots venues (The Globe, Head Of Steam and Mosaic Tap) and celebrates live alternative music with a strong independent, community-first spirit. 2 artists/bands will be selected.

• Application conditions: Open to artists based in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium and France. Two profiles wanted: 1 acoustic act (solo, duo or trio; folk, blues, Americana, country) and 1 full band (trio to quintet; rock, alternative, indie, shoegaze, dream pop). A fixed fee is offered by Groover (transport and accommodation not covered).
• Application deadline: 4 December 2026

Apply for Aelius Alternative Festival 2027

💫 Apply for the Transatlantic Stars 2027

Transatlantic Stars is an initiative of the European Union Delegation to the U.S. that helps mid-career European artists break into the American cultural scene. It offers three programs: visual arts (6 artists in residence across the U.S.), film (5 directors, from the East Coast to Hollywood) and music (5 artists in Cleveland, with studio and co-writing time alongside American musicians). All three come together in Washington, D.C. in June 2027 for a final showcase.

• Application conditions: Open to mid-career artists who are citizens of an EU Member State (candidate countries are excluded), available from April to June 2027 depending on the program. Each discipline has its own criteria: at least 4 of 5 professional recognition criteria for visual arts, an award-winning narrative feature that premiered in 2024 or later for film, and a recent performance at a qualifying music festival for music. Free to apply, limited to the first 300 applications.
• Application deadline: 30 October 2026

Apply for the Transatlantic Stars 2027

🇬🇧 Play at The Great Escape 2027 – The Festival For New Music

Taking over the city of Brighton every May, The Great Escape is the world’s leading new music festival for discovery, bringing together 450+ emerging artists from around the world across 30+ walkable venues, alongside a globally respected music industry conference. The festival has a long history of showcasing artists at pivotal moments in their careers, providing an opportunity to perform in front of an audience actively looking to discover what’s next.

• Applications are open to artists from the UK and internationally, across all genres.
• Application deadline : February 15th, 2027

Apply to play at The Great Escape 2027

🗽 Play at The New Colossus Festival 2027

Since 2019, NYC’s Lower East Side has been the home of The New Colossus Festival, a week-long showcase of emerging artists from around the world. Now entering their 8th edition, this series of performances, panels, parties, and more will happen March 9-14, 2027.  This is the biggest opportunity for international artists to connect with local and international music industry and fans in an intimate setting. 

• Application conditions: Open to artists who can deliver a great live performance and are looking to grow their fanbase and professional networks.

Play at The New Colossus Festival 2027

🇬🇧🎤 Grassroots Connects Artist Showcase 2027

Apply to perform at Grassroots Connects 2027, a music industry networking and showcase event bringing together independent and emerging artists with managers, booking agents, labels, publishers, promoters, and PR professionals.

• Application conditions: Open to independent and emerging artists. Selected artists will perform live at The Bedford in London and gain access to industry panels, 1-to-1 speed networking sessions, and direct exposure to music industry decision-makers.
• Event date: 20 January 2027

Apply to the Grassroots Connects Artist Showcase 2027

🇨🇦 Apply for NXNE Festival 2027

Apply to join NXNE 2027, a multi-day music festival showcasing emerging artists across 30+ venues in Toronto.

• Application conditions: Open to emerging artists applying via NXNE (North by Northeast) Music Festival. Selected artists will perform across Toronto venues, with past participants reporting additional performance opportunities following the festival, including slots on the NXNE Stage at the CNE.
• Application deadline: December 31, 2026

Play at NXNE 2027

🇺🇸 Play at The New Colossus Festival 2027 in New York City

Apply to perform at The New Colossus Festival 2027, an international live music showcase festival celebrating emerging artists from around the world across multiple venues in New York City’s Lower East Side.

• Application conditions: Open to solo artists and bands performing original music. The festival is mainly focused on indie rock and indie-oriented projects, but also considers artists with strong live performance energy and a growing audience. Applicants should be emerging or developing acts with a clear live presence, a growing fanbase, and a strong potential for international exposure.
• Application deadline : 1 December 2026

Play at The New Colossus Festival in NYC

🇬🇧 Play at RecFest 2027 in Portchester

Apply to perform at RecFest 2027, the ultimate Music + Sport Festival for the whole family, bringing together over 2,000 music lovers each year near Portsmouth for a day of live music, sports entertainment, and community celebration.

• Application conditions: Open to family-friendly artists available on Saturday May 22nd, 2027 between 10:30am and 9pm. All music genres are welcome, provided the performance is suitable for all ages. Artists must be able to travel to Portchester.
• Application deadline : May 1st 2027

Play at RecFest 2027

It’s your turn! And besides applying to music contests – get in touch with music professionals directly on Groover to get your music heard ⬇️

ENDED MUSIC CONTESTS

cial camp UK 2026: apply to the world’s largest songwriting camp

anti social camp uk is back! 🇬🇧 following it’s 6th year in NYC, the world’s largest songwriting festival returns to London with 200 recording sessions and 10 iconic events, parties and showcases in partnership with Tileyard.

• Application conditions: Open to global artists, songwriters and producers with the ability to travel to London. Open to all genres.
• Application deadline : September 15th, 2026

Apply to anti social camp UK 2026

ly to The Vinyl Cut Contest: Get your music on vinyl

Amuse, elasticStage and Groover are teaming up to celebrate independent artists and vinyl culture. Submit your track for the chance to have it pressed to vinyl and played live in front of tastemakers, press, and fellow artists.

• Application conditions: Open to UK-based self-releasing and DIY artists (18+). Open to all music genres. Submission does not guarantee a vinyl pressing — 100 artists will be selected. The top 25 tracks will be chosen for playback at the event
• Application deadline: 14 September, 2026

Apply to The Vinyl Cut Contest

🎤 Play the Main Stage at Ditto X 2026

Groover is teaming up with Ditto Music to give one artist the chance to perform live on the Main Stage in front of this audience of decision-makers.

• Application conditions: Open to UK-based artists with the ability to travel to London for the event. We look for stripped-back sets: solo or duo, singer-songwriter, pop, rap, acoustic. Paid performance (but housing & transports not covered).
• Application deadline: September 30th, 2026

Apply to play the Main Stage at Ditto X 2026

🇬🇧 Play at Late Summer Shoobz Showcase — On Da Beat x Morocco Bound

Apply to join Late Summer Shoobz Showcase, a live music day organised by On Da Beat x Groover x Morocco Bound celebrating Jazz, Soul, Reggae, Rap, Amapiano and House music.

• Application conditions: Open to UK-based artists and DJs able to travel to London. Applicants must submit 1 original track (no covers); open to live acts (solo/duo/band) and DJs. Selected artists will perform live at Morocco Bound Bookshop in Wandsworth, London, as part of the day’s lineup.
• Application deadline : September 3rd, 2026

🎤 Electric Soul Songwriting Camp 2026 in NYC

Apply to join Electric Soul Camp 2026, a two-day collaborative songwriting camp bringing together songwriters, producers, engineers, vocalists, and instrumentalists passionate about soul, disco, funk, and groove-driven music.

• Application conditions: Open to US-based songwriters, producers, engineers, vocalists, and instrumentalists able to travel to New York City. Selected participants will collaborate in songwriting teams at Indigo Soul Studios and Gray Studios, attend industry panels and networking sessions with leading music professionals, and showcase original songs during the camp’s final live performance.
• Event date: August 1–2, 2026

🇺🇸🔥 Play Mondo 2026 Showcase Festival

Apply to perform at Mondo NYC 2026, New York’s annual music and tech business conference and global showcase festival, bringing together breakthrough artists and music, arts, and tech industry professionals from around the world.

Pitch your music for the Film Sync Awards

• Application conditions: Open to US-based and international artists with live performance experience. Artists must be able to travel to New York City or provide a pre-recorded video showcase if selected. This is a showcase opportunity across all genres.
• Application deadline : 30 June 2026

Apply to participate in the Film Sync Awards, the annual competition connecting artists, composers, and music supervisors through the world of film and audiovisual storytelling.

• Application conditions: Open to artists, composers, and rights holders submitting one original track for one selected movie scene. Participants can apply in two categories: Best Sync Alternative (existing catalog tracks with owned rights) or Best Original Score Alternative (new compositions created specifically for the contest scene)
• Application deadline : 6 June 2026

🇺🇸 Play at WITHLOVEFEST Showcase in NYC in April 2026

Apply to perform at WITHLOVEFEST’s showcase at Sour Mouse NYC on April 30th 2026, as part of Groover’s partnership to spotlight one emerging artist or band from the NYC music scene.

• Application conditions: Open primarily to R&B artists, and also to soul, urban pop, and hip-hop artists. This opportunity is open to US-based artists able to travel to New York City and available to perform on the evening of April 30th 2026.
• Application deadline : April 9th 2026

🇺🇸 Play at Onset Festival in Massachusetts

Apply to perform at Onset Festival, a music and aerial arts festival taking place September 18–20, 2026 in Tolland, Massachusetts, set on scenic campgrounds in the Berkshires just a few hours from New York and Boston 🏕️ Join a diverse lineup of live acts & DJs and deliver a 1–1.5 hour set on an indoor stage with a vibrant, communal, lake-side atmosphere 🎸

• Application conditions: Open exclusively to US-based artists (priority to Northeast-based acts). This opportunity is for solo acts, duos, or DJs across genres such as blues, disco, electro jazz / nu jazz, French house, funk, modern jazz, nu-disco / italo, pop soul, R&B, soul, trip hop, UK garage / bassline, as well as related styles. Artists bringing live instruments, vocals, or performance elements are highly encouraged.
• Application deadline : April 30th 2026

🇺🇸🎙️ Win a Studio Session with Safe & Sound in NYC

Apply to win a 4-hour free studio session at Safe & Sound Studios in Clinton Hill, New York, with a professional sound engineer, to refine your sound in a creative, state-of-the-art space.

• Application conditions: Open exclusively to New York City-based indie artists and bands. This opportunity is for original music only, across genres such as alternative rock, hip-hop, indie folk, indie pop, indie rock, pop rock, pop soul, R&B, reggae, singer-songwriter, and soul.
• Application deadline : April 13th 2026

🇺🇸 Student Contest: Apply to Join Anti Social Camp 2026 in NYC

Apply to join Anti Social Camp 2026 in NYC, the world’s largest songwriting festival, through its official Student Songwriting Contest. With over 200 recording sessions and 10 major events, parties, and showcases across New York City, this immersive experience is completely free for all selected student artists, songwriters, and producers ✨

• Application conditions: Open exclusively to students worldwide who are able to travel to New York City. This opportunity is open to both emerging and released artists across all genres. Applicants must provide key profile details (Spotify, social media, bio, etc.) and include their school name and valid student email address in their application.
• Application deadline : April 20th 2026

🇪🇸 Perform your songs live at Open Folk Madrid

Apply to perform at Open Folk Tuesdays in Madrid, a special live music event presented by Open Folk Madrid in collaboration with Groover, focused on intimate, songwriting-driven performances. Taking place on May 5th, 2026, this curated evening will showcase artists performing original songs in a listening-focused environment, where the audience is fully attentive, offering a unique opportunity to share your music in a warm and authentic atmosphere.

• Application conditions: Open to all artists able to travel to Madrid. This opportunity is for songwriters performing original material only, in an acoustic format (no electric instruments, pedals, synths, or backing tracks). Preferred genres include americana, country, indie folk, and singer-songwriter, with openness to indie pop. Applicants must submit one original track (live performance recommended).
• Application deadline : April 19th 2026

🇧🇷🎤 Perform at Sarau Brasilis x Groover in March 2026

Apply to perform at Sarau Brasilis in São Paulo, in collaboration with Groover, and showcase your original music on the “Palco Autoral” during an intimate event gathering artists and music industry professionals.

• Application conditions: Open exclusively to Brazilian artists with original music who will be in São Paulo on April 19th, 2026. This opportunity is for acoustic performances (max. 3 people on stage) across all genres, with one original song performed.
• Application deadline : April 6th 2026

🇬🇧 Perform on Groover’s stage at The Alternative Escape in Brighton

Apply to perform on Groover’s stage at The Alternative Escape in Brighton, as part of Groover’s official showcase during The Great Escape Festival, one of the UK’s biggest music conferences.

• Application conditions: Open exclusively to UK-based artists. This opportunity is for live acts across genres such as alternative rock, indie rock, indie pop, indie folk, dream pop, hip-hop, R&B, soul, shoegaze, and singer-songwriter.
• Application deadline : March 14th 2026

🇧🇪 Apply to join the “English Pop” songwriting camp (Durbuy Music)

Apply to join the “English Pop” songwriting camp (Durbuy Music): 5 days in a nature-side studio in Durbuy, Belgium, to co-write 5+ songs in teams (artist + producer + English-speaking topliner). 🌳✍️🎶

• Application conditions: Open to Pop & pop subgenres projects with English lyrics, open to all nationalities, and you keep 100% of your rights.
• Application deadline : 22 March 2026

anti social camp: apply to the world’s largest songwriting festival

Anti Social Camp NYC is back for its 6th year! Join the world’s largest songwriting festival with 200 recording sessions and 10 events, parties, and showcases, free for all accepted artists, songwriters, and producers 🎹

• Application conditions : Open to global artists, songwriters, and producers able to travel to NYC. Open to all genres.
• Application deadline : March 1st, 2026

🎶🇨🇦 Record Deal Opportunity with Abstract Studios (Ontario)

Apply for Abstract Studios’ record deal, offered by Abstract Studios in Toronto, through its independent imprint Abstract Music.

• Application conditions: Open exclusively to Ontario-based Canadian artists. This opportunity is for emerging artists working across genres such as pop, hip-hop, R&B, dancehall, indie pop, and urban pop.
• Application deadline : March 1st, 2026

🇧🇬 Play at SoAlive Music Conference & Festival 2026

Apply to perform at SoAlive Music Conference & Festival 2026 in Sofia (Bulgaria), a key showcase event spotlighting emerging Balkan artists in front of international music industry professionals. 🎶

• Application conditions: Open to live-performing solo artists and bands from Balkan countries (including Bulgaria) presenting original music. Genres include pop, hip-hop, electronic (with live elements), jazz, indie, rock, folk, world, soul, metal, and related styles.
• Application deadline : 17 February 2026

🎧 Apply for an Exclusive Strategic Sync Consultation with InFiné

Apply for a one-to-one Strategic Sync Consultation with InFiné, offering selected artists from Southwest Asia and North Africa tailored guidance on sync strategy, catalog assessment, and professional development within the global sync ecosystem.

• Application conditions: Open to artists, producers, and music creators from Southwest Asia & North Africa (including diaspora) with an active career, defined artistic direction, and existing catalog. All genres welcome.
• Application deadline: 25 January 2026

🇺🇸 Play at Baker Falls in NYC with Groover Obsessions

Apply to play at Baker Falls, New York City’s Lower East Side, with Groover Obsessions, the artist accelerator dedicated to discovering and showcasing emerging talent.

• Application conditions: Open exclusively to NYC-based artists. This opportunity is for live acts (rock / folk / pop), including genres such as alternative rock, indie rock, indie folk. A fixed performance fee is offered by Groover Obsessions.
• Application deadline : 1 February 2026

🎵 Enter Talent Is Timeless – Global Songwriting Competition (50+)

Apply to Talent Is Timeless, a global age-positive songwriting competition celebrating songwriters aged 50+ across all genres, with world-class prizes, celebrity judges, and professional feedback on every song.

• Application conditions: Open worldwide to songwriters aged 50+. Categories include acoustic, pop, rock, jazz, folk, blues, country, musical theatre, spiritual, AI songs, and lyrics-only entries.
• Application deadline : 28 February 2026

🇬🇧 Play at B.O.R Showcase with Bloodlines & Basslines

Apply to perform at the Bloodlines & Basslines: B.O.R Showcase in London on 22 February 2026, part of a council-backed project celebrating Black British and Afrodiasporic music culture. 🔥

• Application conditions : Open to UK-based emerging live artists and DJs. Genres: UK Hip-Hop, Grime, Garage, Jungle / DnB, Afroswing, R&B / Neo-Soul, Rap.
• Application deadline : 18 January 2026

🇺🇸 Play at WITHLOVEFEST Showcase in NYC

Apply for a chance to perform at the Groover x WITHLOVEFEST Showcase in NYC, an event spotlighting emerging Pop, Hip-Hop, and R&B artists from the local scene 🎤

• Application conditions : Open to Indie Pop, Hip-Hop, and R&B artists. Open to US-based artists able to travel to NYC.
• Application deadline : January 4, 2026

🇺🇸 Play at Breaking Sound Showcase in NYC 🎙️

Apply to perform at the Groover x Breaking Sound Showcase in NYC, highlighting emerging Pop, Rock, Folk, R&B, and alternative artists on January 23, 2026 🎶

• Application conditions : Open to artists in Indie Rock, Indie Pop, Alternative Rock, R&B, Funk, or Singer-Songwriter styles. Live band or acoustic. Open to US-based artists able to travel to NYC
• Application deadline : January 4, 2026

🇺🇸 Play at FAM by 57 NYC

Apply for a chance to perform at FAM, a NYC-based podcast event blending music, film, fashion, and art, with an intimate audience and special guest speakers ✨

• Application conditions : Open to artists of any genre and nationality, based in NYC
• Application deadline : December 8, 2025

🇭🇰 The Underground’s 22nd Year Anniversary Festival 😎✨

Apply to perform at The Underground HK Winter Festival 2026 in Hong Kong, celebrating 22 years of live music across two nights at the iconic Fringe Club 🎟️

• Application conditions : Open to all music genres and nationalities; Artists must be able to travel to Hong Kong
  Application deadline : November 5, 2025

🇺🇸🔥 SXSW 2026: Apply to perform at our official showcase

Apply for a chance to perform at the Groover Obsessions Official Showcase during SXSW 2026 in Austin, TX, a major global event bringing together music lovers, industry pros, and emerging artists ⭐️

• Application conditions: Open to worldwide artists & bands who can travel to Austin. Genres accepted: live acts, indie, pop, rock, folk & subgenres.
• Application deadline: October 26, 2025

🇺🇸 Play at Breaking Sound Showcase in NYC

Apply to perform at the Groover x Breaking Sound Showcase in NYC, a night highlighting emerging Pop, Rock, Folk, R&B, and alternative artists from the local scene. 🎸

• Application conditions : Open to artists in Indie Rock, Indie Pop, Alternative Rock, R&B, Funk, or Singer-Songwriter styles. Live band or acoustic. Open to US-based artists able to travel to NYC.
• Application deadline : October 26, 2025

🇺🇸 Play at WITHLOVEFEST Showcase in NYC

Apply for a chance to perform at the Groover x WITHLOVEFEST Showcase in NYC, an event spotlighting emerging Pop, Hip-Hop, and R&B artists from the local scene 🎤

• Application conditions : Open to Indie Pop, Hip-Hop, and R&B artists. Open to US-based artists able to travel to NYC.
• Application deadline : October 17, 2025

🇺🇸 Electric Soul Songwriting Camp in NYC

Apply to the Electric Soul Songwriting Camp in NYC, a 2-day camp bringing together singers, songwriters, producers, instrumentalists, and engineers from the tri-state area for creation sessions, panels, and showcase. 🏙️

• Application conditions : Open to singers, songwriters, instrumentalists, engineers, and producers based in the NYC / NJ / CT area.
• Application deadline : October 13, 2025

🇺🇸 Play at Baker Falls in NYC with Groover Obsessions

Apply to perform at Groover Obsessions in NYC’s Lower East Side, an evening of live acts and DJ sets bringing together local talent and industry pros 🌆

• Application conditions : Open to NYC-based artists. Live act (Rock/Folk/Pop) or DJ set.
• Application deadline : September 27, 2025

anti social camp UK: apply to the world’s largest songwriting camp

Apply to the largest songwriting camp in the world for recording sessions, parties and showcases — expanding for the first time ever in partnership with Tileyard London 🇬🇧

• Application conditions : Open to global artists, songwriters and producers of all genres, with the ability to travel to London.
• Application deadline : September 15, 2025

🇨🇦🎙️ Win a Studio Session at Abstract Studios!

Apply now for a chance to win a free 4-hour studio session at Abstract Studios in Toronto, Ontario, a top-tier recording space built for industry-level sound. 🎶

• Application conditions : Accepted genres are Pop, Hip Hop, R&B, Dance, Electronic, Dancehall, Country. Open to canadian artists.
• Application deadline : August 1, 2025

🇺🇸🔥 Apply to Play Mondo 2025 Showcase Festival

Apply now for free for a chance to play at Mondo, New York’s only annual music and tech business conference! Perform for music business executives, media, and New York City’s super‑passionate music fans and elevate your career! 🌟

• Application conditions : US-based and global artists with the ability to travel to NYC, artists from all genres that have live performance experience
• Application deadline : July 31, 2025

🇵🇹 Play at getWARM: the electronic music conference in Lisbon

getWARM is a music conference with a clear mission: Create connections between Portugal’s electronic music scene, and the global electronic music industry, opening doors to collaborations and opportunities for artists and labels in Portugal. 🇵🇹🔥 Organized by WARM, the event is bringing A&Rs, label executives, and talent scouts from some of the most relevant electronic record labels to Lisbon, creating rare face-to-face opportunities for Portuguese artists to showcase their work directly to those who can advance their careers globally. Apply for a chance to play a 1 hour set at the afterparty on April 5th at Duro De Matar, Lisbon. 💿

• Application conditions :
  • Open to Portugal-based DJs / producers with the ability to travel to Lisbon.
  • Open to all electronic music subgenres.
  • A 150€ performance fee will be offered by Groover.
• Application deadline : March 24th, 2025

🇪🇸 Toca en el Inspiring Niñas Day (Sólo artistas mujeres)

Inspiring Niñas Day es un evento exclusivo e íntimo organizado al completo por mujeres promotoras, que celebra el talento femenino en la música. Reuniremos a artistas y profesionales destacadas en una jornada de Networking y un especial concierto, diseñado para fomentar la diversidad y la creatividad de las mujeres en la industria musical. Envía tu mejor canción para tener la oportunidad de tocar en este gran evento. 🎸

• Application conditions :
  • 🇪🇸 Abierto a artistas residentes en España que puedan desplazarse al evento. Inspiring Niñas proporcionará una ayuda de 30€ para transporte.
  • 👩‍🎤 Abierto solo a artistas mujeres.
  • ✅ Géneros musicales aceptados: Trap, rap, soul, urbano, R&B, reggaeton, pop urbano, latino urbano, afrobeat, amapiano, dancehall.
  • ❌ Géneros musicales que no aplican: Rock, punk, hardcore, música clásica/música clásica, indie, cumbia, electro, techno, cantautor, folk.
  • 🎸 La actuación se regirá por presentar dos canciones. En caso de traer percusión, debe ser muy reducida y la artista deberá acudir con todos sus instrumentos. Se facilitará micrófono y equipo de sonido, no incluyendo dispositivos como in ears, tarjeta de sonido ni portátil (que deberá traerlo la artista si lo requiere).
• Application deadline : March 30th, 2025

🇭🇰 The Underground’s 21st Year Anniversary Festival 😎✨

Get ready, Hong Kong! The Underground HK is turning 21! 🎉 The Underground HK have been organizing more than 300 events for the past 21 years, in collaboration with many different venues in Hong Kong to give bands the opportunity to perform in front of new audiences. They have been showcasing the best in music, giving rising artists a stage to shine with unforgettable performances. Join them for an epic Anniversary Festival at the iconic Fringe Club on June 13 & 14, 2025. Experience two days of top live acts performing across two stages. Immerse yourself in an electrifying lineup and keep the party going with great food, drinks, and thrilling lucky draw prizes! 🔥🌮🍻🎟️ Send us your best track for performance consideration! 🎸

• Application conditions :
  • Any music genres and nationality are welcomed.
  • Open to artists based in surrounding countries who can travel to Hong Kong for the event (travel or accommodation costs are not covered).
  • The songs can be in native language as long as artist can speak reasonable English to communicate about their songs content and talk to the audience.
  • Political songs won’t be considered.
• Application deadline : March 20th, 2025

🇺🇸 Play at Sad Girl Hours Conference in Brooklyn, NYC

Sad Girl Hours is a “come one, come all” event where the typical music conference is reinvented: be yourself, wear whatever you want, have a beer, and learn about the business side of music. We create a space where artists and wanna-be future managers, talent scouts, social media, influencers, PR and agents get practical advice to launch and build careers. 🚀 The Sad Girl Hours team is looking for one DJ to come and play during the conference: It’s a great opportunity to meet fellow artists and play in front of music pros! Send us your best Set 💿

• Application conditions :
  • Open to DJs playing electronica, house, dance music (warm, groovy, upbeat, melodic subgenres preferably).
  • Open to artists based in the US with the ability to come to NYC / the event by their own means.
  • The artist will have several performance times from 7-10PM (alternating with other gigs).
• Application deadline : March 3rd, 2025

🇺🇸 anti social camp: apply to the world’s largest songwriting camp

Apply to the largest songwriting camp in the world with 200 recording sessions and 10 major NYC events, parties and showcases. Alumni include Jacob Collier, Nile Rodgers, Moby, Miranda Lambert, Kimbra, JP Saxe, Lawrence, Andy Grammar, X Ambassadors, Walk The Moon and Nile Rodgers. The camp is entirely free for all accepted artists, songwriters and producers. This is also the application for the camp’s Student Songwriting Contest. Apply now! ✨

• Application conditions :
  • Open to global artists, songwriters and producers with the ability to travel to NYC
  • Open to all genres.
  • 👉 When applying, please add to your Groover profile:
    • Your Spotify Artist Page (songwriters and producers can link to an album, EP, or demo reel)
    • Your Instagram account
    • Your TikTok account
• Application deadline : February 28th, 2025

🇪🇺 BELEM: Get your track translated

Get your song translated and expand your audience with BELEM 🎶 The BELEM project is breaking new ground in making songs accessible across language barriers. With our final €3000 grant opportunity, we’re inviting artists, songwriters, publishers, and labels across Europe to have their work translated from and into multiple European languages for global distribution.

👉 Open Call for Lyric Translation and Adaptation

We are looking for “bodies of work”, e.g. albums or EPs, even catalogs, for which lyrics can be translated to as many languages as the applicants would like. In parallel to a pool of translators applicants may choose from, we will provide our advanced BELEM Lyric Studio for AI-powered and human vetting if desired, translation from and into multiple languages. Translated lyrics will be inserted into the LyricFind platform for subsequent licensed distribution to Deezer, .MUSIC (new top level domain), BELEM.MUSIC and other digital platforms and music services. We are also soliciting translators with experience in translating lyrics to join our pool of translators which will then be made available to awarded songwriters and publishers as well as labels and artists. ​

👉 Open Call for Recording and Releasing of a Translated Song

Artists and labels can record one or more translated versions of an existing and previously released song with all licenses from songwriters and publishers. All recordings will be distributed globally once released, along with their lyrics and – eventually – translations into different languages. Applicants can choose the distributor of their preference and – if needed – request BELEM to provide distribution options.

• Application conditions :
  • Open to all European artists
  • Open to all music genres
  • Applicants have to own, administer, or represent the rights to the proposed song(s) and track(s).
  • Applicants Will provide an initial budget in the Project Support Agreement and financial and technical reports upon project completion.
• Application deadline : February 23rd, 2025

🇬🇧 Play at RecFest in Portchester

This year’s RecFest (Saturday May 17th, Portchester) is set to be the ultimate family day out! Packed with fun for all ages during the day, the energy shifts during the night to live music and entertainment, with cozy bars serving refreshing drinks and the best local talent taking the stage. RecFest is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of family, fun, and community. 🍻🎸🌳 Send your best track for a chance to play at the festival!

• Application conditions :
  • Open to UK-based artists with the ability to travel to Portchester
  • Open to family-friendly solo artists
  • Open to pop, acoustic, indie, and singer-songwriter genres (with lyrics in English)
  • Performance fee paid by RecFest
• Application deadline : February 24th, 2025

🇺🇸 Noise Pop Festival: Apply to play at the Opening Party

Noise Pop Festival is partnering with Groover to find a DJ with funk and soul vibes to kick off the Opening Party at the California Academy of Sciences “NightLife” on Thursday Feb 20th 6pm-10pm. This after-hours event features live music, DJ sets, and art installations throughout the museum. Including the aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest exhibits. It’s a unique blend of music and science to kick off the 10-day festival in San Francisco. 🪩 🌿 Apply for a chance to play at the iconic festival in front of thousands of music lovers!

• Application conditions :
  • Open to DJs based in the US, with the ability to travel to San Francisco.
  • DJ Formats: Vinyl, CDJ, Digital (Serato, Traktor, Ableton or equivalent).
  • Genres: dance, house, disco, funk, boogie, soul, hip-hop.
  • In-house PA and DJ equipment will be provided.
• Application deadline : January 30th, 2025

🔥🇺🇸 Play at Spring Fest Austin, TX with Groover Obsessions

Our showcase will bring artists, industry pros, and music lovers from around the world to Austin, TX for an incredible day of live music, networking, and career-boosting opportunities. Get ready for a full-day lineup of the best new acts and rising stars! Apply now to play at our event on March 9th, hosted by Groover Obsessions and Constellation Music Group at Drifter’s Social House during Spring Fest ATX – one of the BIGGEST music events in the U.S. 🤩 Don’t miss this opportunity – send us your best track for consideration! 🎶

• Application conditions :
  • Open to live acts (pop, rock, folk, country)
  • Open to US-based bands/artists and artists located/travelling near Austin around March 9th
• Application deadline : January 31, 2025

Apply for the NEST – Music Incubator 🇵🇸

NEST is a 5-month music incubator empowering music creators across Palestine. Through tailored mentorship, production support, and networking, NEST enables artists to navigate the global music industry, connect with professionals, and amplify Palestinian music on a world stage. In its three stages, Global Beats, SoundLab, and Sustainable Future, NEST offers essential skills, strategic support, and clear paths for career advancement.

• Application conditions : Musicians, bands, collectives, and music production enthusiasts from all genres and locations across the West Bank, Gaza Strip, Jerusalem, the 48 Area, and the occupied Syrian Golan Heights. Both emerging and established artists are welcome, especially those eager to collaborate and advance their careers.
• Application deadline : January 12th, 2025

🇬🇧 UK Festival / Play at Aelius Alternative Festival 2025 in Newcastle

Aelius Alternative Music Festival is a Newcastle-based multi-venue all-day festival with 34-artists playing across five stages alongside spoken-word performances and live comedy, coming back on Saturday the 5th of April 2025, after a successful first edition last year! Apply now for a chance to play at this great event! 2 artists/bands will be selected! 🎸

• Application conditions: 1 acoustic/stripped back act: solo, duo, trio set-up for Folk, Acoustic, Blues, Americana, Country genres / 1 full-band act: trio, quartet, quintet for Rock, Alternative, Indie, Indie-rock, Shoegaze, Dreampop genres.
• Application deadline: December 16th, 2024.

🇺🇸 Play at WITHLOVEFEST Showcase in NYC in December 2024

Groover is partnering with WITHLOVEFEST to showcase an emerging artist/band in the NYC music scene. WITHLOVEFEST is a worldwide music platform that showcases some of the best music artists in each host city. Their mission is to be a building block for new artists looking to expand their reach and provide them with a platform to showcase their talents to the masses.

Groover will select 1 act to play at Sobs (NYC) on December 19th, 2024. The winners will share the stage with other emerging artists and perform in front of their audience! Apply now to play at this great event, it’s the perfect opportunity to gain visibility!

• Application conditions: – Music genres : pop, hip-hop, r&b – Open to US-based artist
• Application deadline: December 10, 2024.

🇺🇸🎙️ The Record Process x Groover: apply to be featured in the podcast

Apply to be featured in The Record Process (Top 100 Music Interview Podcasts in the US) !

As a featured curator on Groover this month, The Record Process will be opening up their Season 7 tracklisting to any artist, producer, and songwriter to be a guest on the podcast – regardless of the age, scale, or geographic location of the project.

Guest will be invited to share details about the making of their album, what unique factors shaped the creative process, and the lessons and insights they learned along the way. Simply submit your music through the exclusive Groover link in the show notes by Nov 8th – share your story about what made the process so unique – and we’ll select three of the submissions to be featured with their own dedicated interviews. These interviews will then be released as the final 3 episodes of this season!

• Application conditions: Open to all international artists – English language submissions only – Open to all music genres – Project must consist of 5 or more tracks and be classified as an EP or LP – Project must be commercially released and available to stream on all major DSP platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, Soundcloud…) – Artist must have access to a solid internet connection and isolated environment conducive to taping an audio interview remotely.
• Application deadline: November 8th, 2024

Apply here to Groover x The Record Process

🇺🇸 Groover x Distro Fest – open call for performers

Groover partners with Distro Fest to offer the opportunity for one artist to play at the festival ACX1.

Studios brings WHO?MAG Distro Fest 3, a 4-day music festival, conference, and film festival to Atlantic City, NJ. This event will feature over 50 major music industry speakers, over 70 performers, and a music film festival to the new ACX1 Studios, the Entertainment Pier at Caesars. It will also be broadcasted live on Splash 98.5, AC newest top 40 radio station.

Application conditions: Open to US-based artists with the ability to travel to Atlantic City – Open to pop, rock, R&B, hiphop, dance, country, jazz – Submit 1 track to participate
Application deadline: October 22, 2024

Apply here to the Groover x Distro Fest Open Call

💿🇺🇸 Groover x Diggers Factory Contest: Win 300 CD pressings

Physical merchandising is a key element to any music promotion strategy. In this context, Groover has teamed-up with Diggers Factory to give you the chance to win 300 copies of your latest release pressed to CDs! 💿

Here’s your chance to get your music on physical support for free!

Send us your best track to participate ✨

• Application conditions: Open to US-based artists – Open to all music genres – The project must not exceed 78 minutes – The artist must be able to send their audio in a DDP format – The artwork must be adapted to Diggers’s CD template (300 DPI / CMYK / PDF format) – The artist must own all creative aspects of his work (a copyright form will be sent to complete)
• Application deadline: October 21st, 2024

Apply here to the contest Diggers x Groover

🇬🇧 Apply to play at The Great Escape in Brighton

The Great Escape welcomes artists from every genre across the globe to apply for a chance to play at the world’s most renowned festival for breaking new talent. You will be performing with the beautiful seaside backdrop of Brighton, where 450+ acts will be filling over 30 venues, making 14th-17th May 2025 one hell of a weekend and a great opportunity to meet key music industry figures who come to TGE looking for the next big thing.

Calling all artists. Artist registration for The Great Escape 2025 in partnership with Tunecore is now open. Whether you are a band, a singer-songwriter, a rapper, DJ, collective or duo, it doesn’t matter, we want to hear from you.

Application deadline: February 2025

Apply here to The Great Escape

🇺🇸 Play at New Colossus x Groover Showcases in NYC

We are looking for two emerging artists to perform as part of a three-act line-up showcase organized in collaboration with the New Colossus Festival. Do you want to be part of it? It will be the opportunity for you to play alongside our Groover Obsessions artists, in front of music industry professionals and a packed crowd of local music lovers!

📍Where : Piano’s, NYC

• Application conditions:• Artist/band that can play 30 mins live show • Based in NYC or can come to NYC • Genres: indie rock, post punk, psych rock, coldwave, indie folk, singer songwriter, indie pop, r&b
• Application deadline: Wednesday October 23rd, 2024

Apply here to New Colossus x Groover

🇺🇸 Groover x WITHLOVEFEST Showcase for Pop, Hip-Hop, R&B Artists in NYC

Groover is partnering with WITHLOVEFEST to showcase one emerging artist/band in the NYC music scene.

WITHLOVEFEST is a worldwide music platform that showcases some of the best music artists in each host city. Their mission is to be a building block for new artists looking to expand their reach and provide them with a platform to showcase their talents to the public.

The winners will share the stage with other emerging artists and perform in front of their audience! Apply now to play at this great event, it’s the perfect opportunity to gain visibility! 🌟

• Application conditions: Music genres: Indie Pop, Hip-Hop R&B / US-based artists with the ability to travel to NYC

• Application deadline: September 26th, 2024

Apply here to With Love Fest x Groover

🇪🇸 Apply to Bona Dea Vol.2 !

Bona Dea arrives in Madrid thanks to Alternativa Sonora, with the idea of holding a series of parties whose purpose is clear: to provide a unique experience full of good live music and featuring emerging female talent. Each party will revolve around a different musical style, the first one was R&B and Soul with urban dyes, which was the common nexus of all the artists who were part of the line-up. In this second party we are looking to combine electronic music with urban music.

The second Bona Dea party will take place in Sala B and we are going to take it to the next level with a series of activations that we will be revealing to you. As we have said, the common link between the artists of this Bona Dea Vol.2 has to be electronic music in its most urban and dark side.

• Application conditions: Female only and artists from Spain

• Application deadline: October 11th, 2024

Apply here to Bona Dea x Groover

Mondo.NYC 2024 Showcase Festival 🇺🇸

Groover is excited to partner with Mondo as its official artist submission platform for their 2024 festival! Mondo.NYC is New York’s only annual music and tech business conference and global showcase festival, presenting performances from breakthrough multi-genre artists from around the world.

Mondo returns to NYC October 15-18, 2024, including panels and networking opportunities at the incredible Arlo Williamsburg Hotel and showcases at independent venues across Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Apply now for free for a chance to play at this amazing event, perform for music business executives, media, and New York City’s super‑passionate music fans and elevate your career! 🌟

• Application conditions: open to all genres / open to US-based and global artists with the ability to travel to NYC for the event.
• Application deadline: July 31, 2024.

Apply here to Mondo.NYC

🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQ+ Songwriting Retreat / Apply to join Kloud Retreat

Kloud Retreat organise a week of creativity and community building completely free to attend and as a result, they are looking for 21 of the UK’s best LGBTQ+ talent to attend their first residential retreat of its kind. Whether you’re just beginning your career or you’re a seasoned pro, represented by a label or publishing, they want to hear from you. Kloud is here to help you build your tribe, find your next queer collaborators, and support this fabulously creative community. 🎉

What’s included?

– 4-nights accommodation in East Sussex Countryside Estate 1 hour from London.
– Daily writing sessions with fellow LGBTQ+ music talent
– Catered communal meals
– Optional morning Yoga
– Evening activities like campfires and movie nights
– End-of-week song showcase and music mixer with retreat partners and music industry professionals

• Application conditions : Open to 18+ UK-based artists with the ability to come to East Sussex Countryside Estate / All music genres are accepted / If you are preselected, you’ll be contacted by email and asked to fill in a second form to validate your application 📝
• Application deadline : Open call from August 5th to 23rd, 2024 / Successful applicants will be contacted the week of the 26th of August

🇬🇧 UK Gigs / Paper Garden Presents: Experiential Music in London

Paper Garden creates unique musical experiences fostering a vibrant community united by a passion for exceptional music, art, and a shared desire for positive change. They curate these bespoke events in innovative spaces in London and feature diverse artists and performers in a way that forges connections between unconventional spaces, artists, and brands and creates truly extraordinary & interactive experiences.

They host showcases within London at Market Halls Oxford Street (a bustling food hall located in the heart of london) and Bingham Riverhouse (a boutique restaurant, hotel and members club in Richmond, U.K.). Send us your best track for a chance to play at one of their upcoming events taking place end of August ✨

• Application conditions: open to UK-based artists / Genres accepted: Indie pop, Indie rock, Soul, R&B, Jazz, Funk, Singer-songwriter.
• Application deadline: August 5, 2024.

Apply to play at Paper Garden Events

🇺🇸 Play at New Colossus x Groover Showcases in NYC in Sept./Oct.

We are looking for two emerging artists to perform as part of a four-act line-up showcase organized in collaboration with the New Colossus Festival at the iconic venue Baker Falls 🔥 It will be the occasion for you to play in front of music industry professionals and a packed crowd of local music lovers!

You will have the opportunity to play alongside our Groover Obsessions artists at our next showcases on September 4th and October 9th at Baker Falls. Send us your best track! ✨

• Application conditions: indie rock/pop/folk artist/band that can play 30 mins live show / based in NYC or can travel to NYC easily.
• Application deadline: August 12, 2024.

Apply to play at Groover x New Colossus Showcases

🇺🇸 LAUNCH Dallas Conference & Festival

After 16 incredible years in Lancaster, PA, the iconic LAUNCH conference will host its first year in Dallas with Third String Entertainment (So What?! Music Festival, Furnace Fest, Unsilent Night).

This edition will take place on November 7-10, 2024 in Dallas, TX. Apply for a chance to perform during this conference and festival! LAUNCH Dallas is open to artists of ALL genres and is all-ages to attend 🤘

• Application conditions: open to US-based artists with the ability to travel to Dallas / open to all music genres.
• Application deadline: August 14, 2024.

Apply here for a chance to play at LAUNCH Dallas

The International Songwriting Competition 🌎

📣 Calling all musicians!

The International Songwriting Competition invites you to participate in its annual song contest. ISC aims to provide both budding and seasoned songwriters with a platform to showcase their music on a global scale. With over $150,000 in prizes up for grabs, ISC stands as the largest and most prestigious songwriting competition worldwide.

Judged by a panel of renowned industry figures and celebrities, including Mariah Carey, Reba McEntire, Tom Waits, Shooter Jennings, Elle King, Jennifer Hudson, Paul Stanley (KISS), Joe Hahn (Linkin Park), James Adam Shelley (American Authors), NEEDTOBREATHE, and many others, this competition offers unparalleled exposure. Join the ranks of past winners – including Illenium, Kehlani, Coco Jones, Vance Joy, Maren Morris, JP Saxe, Bastille, and more!

Enter today on their website

WITHLOVEFEST x Groover Showcase in NYC – April 2024 🇺🇸

Groover is partnering with WITHLOVEFEST to showcase an emerging artist/band in the NYC music scene.

WITHLOVEFEST is a worldwide music platform that showcases some of the best music artists in each host city. Their mission is to be a building block for new artists looking to expand their reach and provide them with a platform to showcase their talents to the public.

Groover will select 1 act to play at Sour Mouse (NYC) on April 25, 2024. 🌟

• Application conditions: music genres: indie pop, hip hop r&b.
• Application deadline: April 16, 2024.

BIGSOUND 2024 🇦🇺

BIGSOUND is the southern hemisphere’s biggest music industry event gathering music lovers came to discover the future of music over three exciting nights in Brisbane, Australia every September. This year’s event will welcome tastemakers from across the globe including media, A&R, agents, promoters, music supervisors, buyers and so much more.

Want to play at this year’s edition? Well, look no further and apply now for a chance to perform in front of some of the most influential figures in the industry! It could be a real game changer 🚀

• Application deadline: 16 April, 2024.

SAMC’s 2024 Open Call 🇧🇬

As one of the prime events in South East Europe, the SoAlive Music Conference & Festival stands proud as “The gateway to the Balkans’ music industry” offering unparalleled opportunities for artists and professionals to showcase their talents, share insights, and connect with the heart of the music scene in the region.

They’re seeking artists across all genres to perform at this year’s edition, taking place at the National Palace of Culture, Sofia, Bulgaria, on October 2nd – 4th, 2024. If you’re ready to make waves in the 50+ million people Balkans’ music scene, they want to hear from you. ✨

• Application conditions: open to artists from any country / all genres accepted / open to live acts.
• Application deadline: April 22, 2024.

Play at WITHLOVEST in NYC – March 2024 🇺🇸

Groover is partnering with WITHLOVEFEST to showcase an emerging artist/band in the NYC music scene. WITHLOVEFEST is a worldwide music platform that showcases some of the best talent in their local music scenes.

Groover will select 1 act to play at Sour Mouse (NYC) on March 28, 2024. The winner will share the stage with other emerging artists and play in front of their audiences! ✨

• Application conditions: open to US artists / genres accepted: indie rock, indie pop, alternative rock, r&b, funk / backing tracks or live band (preferably with drums) with max 5 people on stage.
• Schedule: applications close on March 20, 2024.

Breaking Sound Showcases – NYC & LA 🇺🇸

Groover is partnering with Breaking Sound again to organize a new showcases in NYC and another one in LA, to showcase some emerging artists/bands in the music scene.

Groover will select 2 acts to play at Brooklyn Music Kitchen (NYC) on April 16 and at Adults Only (LA) on April 23. The winners will share the stage with other emerging artists and play in front of their followers! 🤘

• Application conditions: open to US artists / genres accepted: indie rock, indie pop, alternative rock, r&b, funk / backing tracks or live band (preferably with drums) with max 5 people on stage.
• Schedule: applications close on March 17, 2024.

Lo-Fi Contest / Get added to the compilation 🌎

Groover and Chill Space Records are partnering up to create the lo-fi compilation “Midnight Grooves with a Sloth”. Actively promoted via Chill Space Records & Groover’s networks, it’s THE best compilation to relax and chill during these nostalgic late nights…🌃

Curated with great care, this compilation brings together tomorrow’s top talents! Apply now for a chance to be added, and shine light on your project 🌟

• Application conditions: for artists from any country / genres accepted: lo-fi, chill out, ambient, lo-fi instrumental hip-hop, chill beats.
• Schedule: open call from February 9th to March 9th, 2024.

Play at Spring Fest Austin – Groover x Disco x Amuse Event 🇺🇸🔥

The SXSW Music Festival brings together artists, industry professionals, and music lovers from around the world to make connections, elevate their careers, and celebrate the magic of live music – from legendary performers to the most exciting new talents. ✨

Apply to play / mix at the event organized on March 13th by Groover x Disco x Amuse during SXSW Music Festival in Austin, TX – one of the BIGGEST MUSIC EVENTS in the U.S. 🤩 Take this lifetime opportunity and send us your best track!

• Application conditions: live acts & DJ sets / open to many genres – except hardcore ones / for US-based bands/artists and artists located/travelling near Austin around March 13th.
• Schedule: open call from February 13th to March 3rd, 2024.

🔥 UPDATE 🔥 On top of the event on March 13th, we’ve also partnered up with Ridiculous Biz and unlocked 1 additional slot for an artist and/or DJ to play at their Ridiculous Boat Cruise on March 11th, at the Dockside Lounge 🙌 This means more opportunities for you to be selected!

Villa Albertine – Jazz & New Music Program 🇺🇸

Villa Albertine promotes and supports artistic performances and creations through the Jazz & New Music program – encouraging collaborations between French and American artists.

Since it’s creation in 2004, the program has granted $4 million in funds to support over 300 projects in jazz and contemporary music, resulting in 65 recordings and more than 700 concerts, commissions, and residencies in France and the United States. Apply now to join the 2024 edition!

• Schedule: open call until February 29th, 2024.

Ireland Music Week – Artist Applications 2024 🇮🇪

Ireland Music Week is a crucial event in Irish artists’ career development, allowing them to showcase their talent to top-class international music industry delegates – bookers, labels, publishers, managers & agents – and new fans alike.

50 Irish acts will have the chance to showcase in October, with the line-up being announced in June. Are you ready to take the next step and bring your music career to the international stage? Apply now! ⚡️

• Schedule: applications will close on Monday March 25th 2024 at 5pm.

Breaking Sound x Groover Showcase – Jan 24 – NYC 🇺🇸

Groover is partnering with Breaking Sound to organize 2 new showcases in NYC, to showcase some emerging artists/bands in the NYC music scene! Groover will select 2 acts to play at Broadway (NYC) on March 20th and at Oppa Bistro (NYC) on March 21st. The winners will share the stage with other emerging artists and play in front of their followers!

Apply now for the opportunity to play at this great event, it’s the perfect occasion to gain visibility! ✨

• Application conditions: folk, rock, pop, r&b, funk music / live band (preferably with drums) with a max 5 people on stage or acoustic format.
• Schedule: open call from January 23 to February 13, 2024.

Focus Wales 2024 – Wrexham 🇬🇧

Groover & FOCUS Wales, one of the UK’s leading showcase festivals, are partnering again this year to offer 3 artists the opportunity to play at the prestigious festival next May 2024!

Apply for the opportunity to play at Wales’ biggest music showcase taking place in Wrexham in front of music industry professionals from all around the world! 🎸

• Application conditions: for UK-based artists / genres accepted: indie, pop, folk, rock, hip-hop soul, r&b, funk, jazz, afrobeats…
• Schedule: open call from January 29 to February 19, 2024 at 11am UK time.

Play at “Showcase” by Different Planet – London 🇬🇧

Different Planet is seeking emerging/unsigned artists for their acoustic music event: “Showcase”. It features the best of emerging singers and singer/songwriters and takes place at The Spice of Life, Soho.

Stripped back, “Showcase” is an acoustic session that is all about introducing audiences to emerging artists and keeping the listening experience intimate; backing is either by guitar or keyboard/ piano. Keeping it live; no material is performed with backing tracks. Standards/covers or originals… Folk, Pop, Soul/RnB, Jazz, Showtunes. It’s all good! 🎷

• Application conditions: for UK-based artists / suitable for soloists, duos or trios / genres accepted: pop, folk, jazz, soul, r&b…
• Schedule: open call from January 22nd to February 18th, 2024.

Play at Tomorrow’s World – London 🇬🇧

On Da Beat present Tomorrow’s World. An event full of dynamic panel discussions, live music & networking curated by a South London based organisation that is representative of local youth voices.

Meet them at Brixton Village on the 27th of Feb for Tomorrow’s World to experience how culture and technology are empowering our industry. The event will feature showcases, Tech Industry Talks, product demos, informal networking, and the chance for winning artists to travel the world as AR holograms with Popins.

• Application conditions: for London-based artists/ 2 will be selected: 1 live act & 1 DJ set / genres accepted: afrobeats, jazz, house, dancehall, latin music, r&b, rap…
• Schedule: open call from January, 30 to February, 18 (11pm UK time)

Glastonbury Festival – Emerging Talent Competition – UK 🇬🇧

Glastonbury Festival launched is 2024 Emerging Talent Competition – supported by PRS for Music and PRS Foundation. The competition gives new UK and Ireland-based acts of any musical genre the chance to compete for a slot on one of the main stages at this year’s Festival.

The winners of the free-to-enter competition will also be awarded a £5,000 Talent Development prize from PRS Foundation to help take their songwriting and performing to the next level. Two runners-up will also each be awarded a £2,500 PRS Foundation Talent Development prize.

• Schedule: open call from 29th January to 5th February 2024 (5pm UK time).

Safe & Sound Showcase – Wreckroom Contest

Are you an emerging artist looking to play at a house party in NYC? Would you like to form part of a 3 act line-up for a gig in Clinton Hill, playing solo or with your musicians? Well, this is for you!

Groover is partnering up with Wreckroom – an Entertainment Media & Technology company based in the United States which aims to push boundaries and build community through a series of creative experiments – to showcase artists in the NYC music scene at the Safe & Sound Social event. Safe & Sound Social is an event happening at Safe & Sound Studios in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, that aims to bridge the gap of the creative community by providing a fun, meaningful, and inspiring house party.

SXSW Music Festival Showcase

Open Call for the opportunity to perform at the SXSW Music Festival, taking place from March 13-18, 2023. As a showcasing artist, you’ll gain unparalleled access to an audience of industry professionals, international media and new fans.

Important details:

• One official SXSW showcase performance is guaranteed per invited act.
• Showcase slots run an average of 40 minutes (some exceptions may apply).
• Showcases will take place between March 13-18, 2023.
• SXSW does not provide artist backline or cover travel and accommodation expenses.

Music Showcase Applications are open to:

• All music genres
• Artists from around the world
• Signed and unsigned artists

Application Deadlines:

• Early Deadline: August 12, 2022
• Final Deadline: October 7, 2022
• All deadlines end at 11:59pm PT.

Joshua Tree Music Festival Artists Submissions

Founded in 2003, the bi-annual (May & Oct) Joshua Tree Music Festival is held at the gateway to the world-renowned National Park. JTMF is a resource-generating powerhouse of passionate creativity, community empowerment, and arts education for all ages. A family inclusive global music experience in the magical Mojave.

The festivals are family friendly events, creating an all ages audience. The eclectic line-ups draw a diverse crowd of discerning live music fans who love the outdoors. The National Park is one of the premier rock climbing destinations in the world (2 million visitors annually). People come to climb and dance.  Many come for the festival and stay for a vacation of camping and adventure in the park.

The Great American Song Contest 2022

The Great American Song Contest is open to songwriters, lyricists & music composers worldwide.

This annual event is designed for amateur and semi-pro songwriters only. Individuals who earn over $10,000 annually from song publishing royalties are not eligible.

• An entry fee of $35 is required for each entered song. (Note: There is a limit of 10 songs per songwriter per year.)
• If the same song is entered in multiple categories, each requires a separate entry fee.
• This year’s submission deadline is November 17, 2022. Online submissions must be received by this date. Mailed submissions must be postmarked by this date.
• All entrants will be sent an entry confirmation and judging schedule when their songs are received and processed.

The New Colossus Festival

The New Colossus Festival is a celebration of live music focusing on emerging artists from around the world. We take a slightly different approach and prioritize the artists’ careers by putting together a comprehensive series of showcases targeted to the music industry, press, and local fans. We have also built this annual event as a space for likeminded artists to connect with one another because we all know that is where the magic really happens.

Please keep in mind, unlike a traditional gig, this is a showcase which is a 30min set with the main purpose of being seen by “buyers” such as industry: booking agents, record label A&R, managers, sync licensing, and fans. 

• Application deadline: November 1, 2022.

SongDoor International Songwriting Competition

SongDoor’s is a song contest that aims to:

• Provide a channel for new original music to be heard

• Provide useful tools to improve writers’ skills. 

All songs are fully screened by industry professionals with real connections to music publishing, producers, artists and labels, and are judged by industry pros who have worked with Neil Young, Justin Timberlake, Tony Bennett, Britney Spears, Kenny Rogers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Fray, Train and dozens of other notable artists. 

Each year, entrants are given a free unlimited-access trial to SongU.com plus a free songwriting software program (compatible with either Mac or Windows). 

Prizes: The total awards purse is valued at more than $40,000 and includes a full-band session demo (recorded and produced at Sixteen Ton Studio), a single-song publishing contract, exclusive pitching and networking opportunities, a comprehensive assortment of top-shelf songwriting software and more. The competition is open to amateurs and professionals worldwide.

Application deadline: November 15, 2022.

Send your music to the best labels, radio stations, media outlets and industry professionals on Groover ⬇️

L’article Best Music Contests Guide 2026 – Apply now! est apparu en premier sur Groover Blog.