London’s music scene is set to take centre stage this autumn as Hard Rock Cafe London launches Hard Rock Rising, a global competition designed to discover the next generation of singer-songwriters, bands and DJs.
Created in partnership with Coca-Cola, the worldwide contest spans 34 countries and 64 Hard Rock Cafes, offering unsigned artists the opportunity to perform live, build their fanbase and compete for a career-changing prize package.
Hard Rock Returns to Its Musical Roots
As the original Hard Rock Cafe, which first opened on London’s Old Park Lane in 1971, the London venue has long been associated with live music and legendary performances.
Hard Rock Rising aims to continue that legacy by giving emerging artists the chance to perform live before audiences at both Hard Rock Cafe London and Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus throughout September.
The competition is open to:
- Singer-songwriters
- Bands
- DJs
Applications are open now until 18 August, with artists required to submit two original songs.
Live Heats Take Place Throughout September
Successful applicants will perform during four live competition rounds on:
- 2 September
- 9 September
- 16 September
- 23 September
Audiences attending each event will vote for their favourite performances using a mobile app, scoring artists on:
- Musicianship
- Vocal Talent
- Originality
- Stage Presence
- Fan Support
The London winner will receive a cash prize and a three-month paid residency before advancing to the global final.
An Incredible Grand Prize for One Global Winner
The overall Hard Rock Rising champion will be announced on 5 October following judging by the Coke Studio L.A. Live team.
The winning artist will receive:
- A professional recording session at Coke Studio L.A. Live
- Flights and accommodation to Los Angeles
- Music distribution across major streaming platforms
- A live performance at Hard Rock Orlando
- Two nights at Hard Rock Hotel Orlando with passes to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
- $10,000 cash
- A Marshall amplifiers and accessories package
Joakim Olsen, General Manager of Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus, said the competition continues Hard Rock’s long-standing commitment to live music.
“As Hard Rock Cafe was founded in London in 1971, we’re incredibly proud to continue our legacy of championing live music through Hard Rock Rising.”
He added that the competition gives emerging musicians the opportunity to perform in front of live audiences while competing for a global prize package that could help launch their careers.
Limited-Time Food and Drinks Menu
Visitors attending the performances can also enjoy a special Hard Rock Rising menu from 17 August to 30 September.
Highlights include:
- Thai Peanut Brussels Sprouts
- BBQ Pulled Beef Sliders
- Lemon & Lime Black Pepper Wings
- Barbacoa Beef Queso
- Cheesecake Dip
Exclusive Coca-Cola-inspired drinks will also be available, including:
- Last Call Guava-rita
- Orange Cream Soda mocktail
- Spiced Jack and Yuzu Soda
Exclusive Merchandise Also Launches
To celebrate the competition, Hard Rock is partnering with streetwear brand Cult of Individuality on a limited-edition apparel collection.
Available from 17 August, the collection includes:
- Hard Rock Rising campaign T-shirt
- Exclusive co-branded clothing
- Collectible pin
The campaign tee features the iconic Hard Rock logo on the front and all 34 participating countries listed on the back.
How to Enter Hard Rock Rising
Artists interested in entering have until 18 August to submit their application, including two original songs.
Full competition details, eligibility requirements and participating venues can be found on the official Hard Rock Rising website.
Fans wanting to watch the live performances can also book tables at Hard Rock Cafe London or Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus throughout September.
Learn More:
- Hard Rock Rising competition: cafe.hardrock.com/hard-rock-rising
- Hard Rock Cafe London: cafe.hardrock.com/london
- Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus: cafe.hardrock.com/piccadilly-circus
- Hard Rock Shop: shop.hardrock.com
- Coca-Cola Coke Studio: www.coca-cola.com/cokestudio
