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Record Store Day Unsigned Competition with Breed Media Returns!

September 9, 2024

The nationwide competition returns bigger and better than ever with support from: Nina Nesbitt, Abbey Road Studios, Bowers & Wilkins, Truck Festival and Charmfactory

Record Store Day and Breed Media are thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated RSD Unsigned competition, offering one exceptional UK artist the chance to have their music pressed onto 500 vinyl records. This year, the competition is bigger and better than ever before, providing emerging artists with unparalleled opportunities to showcase their talent and take their careers to the next level. 

To enter, artists must upload their original music to YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram using the hashtag #RSDUnsigned, and then submit the link via the Breed Media submission page here. All genres and styles are welcome. 


The competition will be judged by a panel of industry experts, including 

  • Karen Emanuel, CEO of Key Production Group and Breed Media 
  • Nina Nesbitt, acclaimed singer-songwriter 
  • Gary Smith, Truck Record Store 
  • Julie Weir, Sony Music 


Their expertise and passion for music will guide the selection of this year’s winners, ensuring that the most promising talent gets the spotlight it deserves. 


Karen Emanuel, CEO of Key Production Group, said of the competition's return: “RSD Unsigned is an unmissable opportunity that can open so many doors." Graham Worsfold, Head of Breed Media, which is providing the 500 vinyl records, added: "We're incredibly proud to support unsigned talent with this prize, which can be the stepping stone for the winner and their music to be picked up nationwide." 

In addition to having their music pressed on vinyl, this year’s winner will also enjoy an exclusive mastering session at the world-famous Abbey Road Studios, courtesy of Bowers & Wilkins. 


But that’s not all—newly added this year is the opportunity to perform at the renowned independent music festival ‘Truck Festival’ in Oxford. Truck Festival is dubbed the “UK’s most warped village fête” and is a four-day celebration of the best new and established artists, filled with wacky entertainment and a unique community spirit. 


Gary Smith, owner of the Truck Record Store who is participating as a judge, said: “At Truck, we believe that new artists are the lifeblood of the music industry. The RSD Unsigned competition is an exciting opportunity for anyone yet to sign a record deal and we are delighted to be involved.” 


Finally, the winning artist will also benefit from an 8-week Talent Development Programme, provided by Charmfactory, designed to help them refine their craft and navigate the music industry. Jeremy Scott, Managing Director, said: “At Charmfactory, we love music and we’re passionate about supporting emerging artists to gain the knowledge, skills, and tools to achieve their goals. We’re also big fans of Record Store Day, so to contribute to the RSD Unsigned campaign for 2024 is a perfect partnership.” 


Acclaimed singer-songwriter and RSD Unsigned judge Nina Nesbitt said: “There is so much undiscovered talent out there in the UK just waiting to be heard. This wonderful competition could be a pivotal moment in an artist’s career, so I say don’t hesitate on entering! I can’t wait to listen to what comes through.” 


The RSD Unsigned competition has supported four previous winners, including: Currls, Amy Fitz Doyley, Sister Cookie, Heavy Rapids, and Barbudo. They have accrued success with mainstream radio play, UK-wide tours, and festival appearances. 


Submissions are open now and will close on 9th November. Don’t miss your chance—submit your music today and see if you could be this year’s RSD Unsigned winner! 

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