TikTok and iHeartRadio Unite to Revolutionize Talent Scouting
In an exciting collaboration, TikTok and iHeartRadio have joined forces to create a groundbreaking competition called "Next Up: Live Music". This unique platform merges the immediacy of social media engagement with the credibility of radio's tastemakers, aiming to redefine how emerging artists are discovered and elevated [1].
For unsigned and under-the-radar artists, Next Up: Live Music offers an unprecedented opportunity to translate online buzz into mainstream opportunities. The competition is open to artists who have built an engaged fanbase on TikTok, own the rights to their music, and are ready to perform live without edits or playback tracks [2].
Artists move beyond pre-recorded clips and step into a live arena where their performances are judged in real time. The competition is conducted primarily via TikTok LIVE, allowing viewers to engage with the performances by liking, commenting, sharing, and otherwise interacting. Contestants receive guidance on optimizing camera angles, engaging an online audience, and crafting a narrative that resonates both on screen and on stage [3].
The competition has three phases: auditions, semi-finals, and a grand finale at the iHeartRadio Theater. As the competition progresses, fan engagement plays a significant role in the competition, with every view, comment, and like contributing to live voting. The field narrows in the semi-final round with more focused feedback and heightened audience engagement [1].
In the culmination of this mentorship, finalists perform before a live crowd and national broadcast at the iHeartRadio Theater. Participants in Next Up: Live Music gain industry contacts, media exposure, and a tangible demo reel, valuable assets for an independent artist [4].
Next Up: Live Music signals a shift towards a participatory culture where fans play an active role in shaping musical careers. For listeners, the competition transforms fandom into direct influence, letting them champion voices they believe deserve wider recognition [5].
TikTok and iHeartRadio are architecting a community-driven talent ecosystem that may define the next generation of hitmakers. With its interactive, community-driven music discovery experience, Next Up: Live Music is set to launch at the end of July and run through September [1][2][3].
[1] TikTok and iHeartRadio Partner to Launch "Next Up: Live Music" - Billboard [2] TikTok and iHeartRadio Team Up for "Next Up: Live Music" Competition - Variety [3] TikTok and iHeartRadio Announce "Next Up: Live Music" Competition - Music Business Worldwide [4] Next Up: Live Music: A New Era for Music Discovery - TikTok Newsroom [5] TikTok and iHeartRadio's "Next Up: Live Music" Empowers Fans to Discover and Elevate New Talent - The Hollywood Reporter
- The unique platform founded by TikTok and iHeartRadio, Next Up: Live Music, combines technology, social-media engagement, and music to reshape the music industry.
- Through this competition, artists have a chance to amplify their online presence on social media, translated into mainstream opportunities in the entertainment industry.
