American Express' Gold Unsigned Initiative Returns to Support Emerging Musicians in the UK

American Expresses’ Gold Unsigned initiative is returning for a second year, offering support to the grassroots music industry by providing life-changing opportunities to bands, producers, singers, rappers, and rising pop stars alike that could see them secure their first big break in a burgeoning music career.

This year, Unsigned is spotlighting the importance of the live music venues that are essential to emerging musicians’ development. Working in close collaboration with grassroots venue, The Dome, Amex’s latest initiative will aim to continue its support of rising artists for years to come.

The event will give artists who are interested in performing at the show the chance to apply from October 26. Additionally, Unsigned will once again partner with several renowned music and entertainment institutions, alongside industry experts that make up the Unsigned panel that selects and supports the shortlisted artists.

On November 21, a Mentor Day will then take place, where the shortlisted artists will have an opportunity to learn from and collaborate with a wide range of mentors, including artists, producers, agents, and publishers.

The search for the emerging artists will then conclude on November 30, where the finalists will perform in front of a crowd of 500 people, while British music legend and emerging music enthusiast, Mike Skinner, will also DJ.

For the 2023 edition of Unsigned, the competition is steering away from the “winner takes all” concept of the original event to create opportunities for a wider range of artists. These include the chance to perform at an Amex-sponsored event, get signed to a record label, earn a sync deal, receive A&R support, mentorship, studio time, and the opportunity to play some of the biggest gigs of their lives.

Artists interested in applying to take part in Amex’s Unsigned can apply here and in other news, J Cole has announced dates for his forthcoming Dreamville Festival.