London’s next breakthrough music act could be among these 18 emerging artists, with Hard Rock Rising bringing live music, voting and global competition to the capital this September.
London has no shortage of musical talent, and this September, 18 emerging artists will have the chance to prove they have what it takes to make it onto the global stage.
Hard Rock Rising, the international music competition from Hard Rock International and Coca-Cola, has announced the shortlisted artists who will compete across three live heats at Hard Rock Cafe London and Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus.
The competition gives up-and-coming musicians the opportunity to perform in front of live audiences, build their fanbases and compete for a place in the global final.
And with a prize package worth a potential career boost, there is plenty at stake.
Who is Competing in Hard Rock Rising in London?
The 18 shortlisted artists will compete across three Wednesdays in September, with nine performers taking the stage at each Hard Rock location throughout the competition.
Wednesday 2 September
Old Park Lane
- Chloë Wilson – Blending Fleetwood Mac-inspired nostalgia with modern alt-pop and soul, Chloë Wilson combines vulnerable songwriting with a confident stage presence.
- Josh Darby – With multiple BBC Introducing ‘Track of the Week’ and ‘Track of the Day’ features, alongside BBC Radio 1 airplay, Josh Darby is building momentum with his original music.
- LUNA J – The London-based Scottish pop-rock artist brings together gritty rock energy and anthemic pop hooks, having already caught the attention of bands including Nickelback and The Struts.
Piccadilly Circus
- Anna Kornis – The Hungarian-born, London-based pop artist draws inspiration from Tate McRae, Charli XCX and Zara Larsson, pairing memorable melodies with relatable lyrics.
- L’Extravagante – Their music explores real-life experiences surrounding change, connection, love, ambition and loss.
- Matt Gino – A London singer-songwriter known for intimate performances, soulful vocals and stripped-back songwriting centred around connection and vulnerability.
Wednesday 9 September
Old Park Lane
- AMBER – The London-born singer-songwriter left behind a traditional career to pursue music full-time, blending pop and soul with piano-led melodies and emotionally rich vocals.
- Jade Thornton – A South London busker and singer-songwriter, Jade has been singing since childhood and began learning guitar at 14.
- Rikkie Lee – The Malaysian-born guitarist, singer-songwriter and producer combines modern pop with alternative rock, groove-driven production and expressive guitar work.
Piccadilly Circus
- Roulette – The Manchester four-piece brings female-fronted pop-punk and a love of 2000s rock to the competition, with influences including Paramore and Flyleaf.
- Danny Wright – The UK pop-punk artist combines honest lyrics with anthemic guitars, exploring themes including ADHD, resilience and pursuing dreams against the odds.
- Disco Lizards – This five-piece rock ‘n’ roll band promises plenty of swagger, energy and garage-rock attitude, combining gritty guitars with infectious grooves.
Wednesday 16 September
Old Park Lane
- Harry Marshall – Originally from rural Australia and now based in London, Harry Marshall blends storytelling and anthemic indie-pop, drawing on his experiences performing across the capital.
- You Over Me – The all-female LGBTQ+ three-piece brings modern alt-rock and pop-punk to the competition, having built a following through energetic live performances since forming in 2019.
- Natalie Lindi – With South African roots, Natalie Lindi combines soulful pop and jazz influences with powerful vocals. The MOBO ‘Unsung Class’ artist has received support from BBC Radio 1, 1Xtra and Radio 2 and performed at venues including Jazz Café and Glastonbury.
Piccadilly Circus
- Southern Heights – The South Essex five-piece blends progressive alternative indie rock with influences ranging from hard rock and blues to 90s pop.
- Crysometimes – The Brighton trio combines grunge-pop and alternative rock, drawing on 90s indie influences while developing a distinctive sound of their own.
- SATRE – The Swedish-born, London-based singer-songwriter has built his career through street performances across London, combining powerful vocals, guitar, rhythm and high-energy live performance.
How does Hard Rock Rising Voting Work?
Each of the three heats will see the artists perform live in front of an audience, with fans able to vote for their favourite act in real time through the Hard Rock Rising mobile web app.
Performances will be judged across five categories:
- Musicianship
- Fan Support
- Vocal Talent
- Originality
- Stage Presence
One winner will be selected from each heat, with the three successful acts progressing to the London final on 23 September.
The ultimate London champion will then move forward to the global competition, competing alongside winners from the other 34 participating countries.
The September heats begin at 8pm, with the Old Park Lane shows starting at 7pm. Entry is free, making it an opportunity for London music fans to discover some of the city’s emerging talent without needing to buy a ticket.
What Does The Hard Rock Rising Winner Receive?
The global competition comes with a prize package designed to give one emerging artist a significant boost.
The global winner will receive:
- $10,000 in cash
- The opportunity to perform at Hard Rock Orlando
- Marshall equipment
- A recording session at Coke Studio L.A. Live
- Additional career development opportunities
For an emerging musician, the combination of live performance opportunities, industry exposure, equipment and recording experience could prove invaluable.
Hard Rock Rising has its own menu
The music isn’t the only new addition at Hard Rock Cafe London and Piccadilly Circus this September.
Running until 30 September, a limited-time Hard Rock Rising menu will be available for fans attending the events or simply looking to grab some food while soaking up the atmosphere.
Dishes include Thai Peanut Broccoli Florets, BBQ Pulled Beef Sliders, Lemon & Lime Black Pepper Wings, Barbacoa Beef Queso and a Cheesecake Dip served with cinnamon-sugar pretzel bites, seasonal fruit and whipped cream.
There is also a selection of Coca-Cola-inspired cocktails and mocktails, including the Last Call Guava-rita, Orange Cream Soda and Spiced Jack and Yuzu Soda.
Pick Up The Hard Rock Rising 2026 Merchandise
Music fans can also get involved through a limited-edition Hard Rock Rising merchandise collection.
Available at selected Rock Shops and the official Hard Rock Shop, the collection includes a special T-shirt featuring the Hard Rock logo on the front and the names of all 34 participating countries on the back.
The collection also includes exclusive apparel and a collectible pin.
How To Watch Hard Rock Rising in London
The Hard Rock Rising heats take place every Wednesday on 2, 9 and 16 September 2026, followed by the London final on 23 September.
With free entry and a line-up spanning pop, rock, indie, soul and pop-punk, the competition offers music fans a chance to discover London’s next generation of artists before they potentially break onto the international stage.
For more information and to book a table, visit the official Hard Rock Cafe London website or Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus.
