TikTok is teaming up with iHeartRadio to introduce Next Up: Live Music, a new competition series streaming live that gives unsigned artists a shot at stardom, fanbase growth, and a moment on stage at the legendary iHeartRadio Theater in Los Angeles.
“The new TikTok LIVE singing competition gives emerging artists the chance to perform LIVE, build their fanbase, and own the spotlight at the iHeartRadio Theater in Los Angeles.“
Running from July 28 through late September, the event invites emerging talent to step into the spotlight on TikTok LIVE, while fans help shape who rises through the ranks. The journey ends with a finale performance on September 26 in Burbank, California.
This competition is built to be interactive from the ground up. Artists will perform live, and their fate will be determined by two forces: engagement from fans and scoring from a panel of judges. Every comment, like, share, and stream matters. Artists with the highest support and strongest feedback advance to the next round.
“TikTok LIVE gives fans the power to engage directly, support their favorite performers, and truly shape their journey to success,” said Shen Gao, Head of LIVE Operations for the Americas at TikTok. “TikTok has long been a launchpad for musical talent, helping undiscovered artists break through and reach global audiences. Together with iHeart, Next Up: Live Music is building on that legacy by turning discovery into a shared, real-time experience.”
Tom Poleman, Chief Programming Officer at iHeartMedia, echoed that energy. “TikTok and iHeartRadio are powerful engines for artist discovery and showcasing new talent. Together, we’re creating a pipeline that turns emerging voices into tomorrow’s headliners and with iHeartRadio we have the reach and influence to bring those artists to the masses.”
The contest is structured in three stages:
- Auditions (July 28 to August 11): Open submissions. From there, the top 50 will be selected
- Semi-Finals (August 25 to 29): The top 50 battle for a spot in the final 12
- Finale (September 26): The top 12 perform live at iHeartRadio Theater in Burbank
The competition is open to artists of all genres—from rap to R&B, indie to pop, and even classical fusion. To qualify, artists must be 18 or older, have at least one original song with full ownership, 50K+ followers on TikTok, and be comfortable going live. Participants must also be unsigned or cleared to compete by their label.
What’s on the table? Beyond bragging rights and national exposure, selected artists will receive livestream coaching, branding support, and networking opportunities with the TikTok creator community. Most importantly, they’ll get a chance to perform at one of the most iconic venues in Los Angeles in front of a national audience.
TikTok has already proven it can launch careers and fuel cultural shifts in music. With Next Up: Live Music, the platform is doubling down on its reputation as a gateway for tomorrow’s superstars.