Greene King Untapped Music Competition Final: here’s what you need to know
In partnership with Greene King Pubs
By Dale Fox
The search for the UK’s next big musical act is culminating in a spectacular live final, and you’re invited. The Greene King Untapped music competition will hold its grand finale on Saturday 13 September at The George on Borough High Street in Southwark, London, and entry is completely free.
This event is a true celebration of grassroots music, providing a vital stage for artists who might otherwise be overlooked, with Greene King Pubs championing emerging talent through its ‘Live at Your Local’ campaign. The initiative has seen hundreds of pubs host music events throughout the summer, giving new acts a place to shine.
Research by the company found that many fans feel priced out of live music, with two in five Brits missing out last year due to high ticket costs – a figure that rises to nearly two-thirds for 21- to 24-year-olds. Greene King Pubs are directly addressing this by making live music accessible and free.
What’s more, Greene King Pubs have partnered with event sponsors Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola to support the Music Venue Trust (MVT). For every Jack and Coke sold at participating pubs this summer, 10p is donated to the MVT, funding community projects and initiatives that nurture emerging talent.
Cash prize, live-to-vinyl recording, and… Sam Ryder
The stakes are enormous for the Greene King Untapped finalists, who will perform for a panel of judges made up of industry experts and maybe even a famous face or two (watch this space). The winner will walk away with a whopping £10,000 cash prize, a live-to-vinyl recording session at the legendary Metropolis Studios, and a slot to perform at Pub in the Park 2026.
What’s more, Rolling Stone UK will be on the ground on the big night, providing live social coverage and exclusive interviews with the artists, fans, and industry figures. You can be part of the conversation by using the hashtags #LiveAtYourLocal and #GreeneKingUntapped on both the Rolling Stone UK instagram and Greene King Pubs Instagram accounts.
In a further show of support for new talent, the winner will also receive a mentorship session with singer/songwriter Sam Ryder, who is Greene King’s first Head of Gigs. Ryder has been a passionate advocate for the competition, emphasising the importance of pubs as platforms for rising artists.
“Playing in pubs and smaller venues was where it all started for me, with intimate venues, borrowed PA systems, and a handful of pub-goers who might become fans.,” the artist says.
“Grassroots music is at the heartbeat of the scene and those early gigs shaped who I am as an artist. These spaces allow live music to be an experience available to everyone, that’s why they’re so important, and I’m stoked to be a part of the team helping to keep that alive!”
When is the Greene King Untapped final?
The Greene King Untapped final will be held on Saturday 13 September at The George pub on Borough High Street, close to London Bridge. The event will begin at 5pm.
Meet the Greene King Untapped finalists
Amber Saqladi
At the crossroads where country, pop, folk and rock meet, there stands Amber Saqladi. Hailing from Leicestershire, this Yemeni-British artist has received praise from Taylor Swift for her emotionally charged and honest music. Her debut single ‘Liquor’ was produced by King Tut at Metropolis Studios and premiered on BBC Introducing.
Dissenter
Hailing from the towns of Winsford and Crewe, Dissenter is a punk-rock band made up of Alexander, Kaden, Cristian and Tom. The band, who started playing together in their early teens, create authentic, high-intensity music about their experiences and the modern world.
The Divide
The Divide is a five-piece rock band from Medway, Kent. Formed in summer 2024, the band’s varied musical backgrounds and influences result in a unique sound that blends genres. On stage, they are known for bringing raw energy, creativity, and passion to every show.
Jasmin Jet
Jasmin Jet is a 21-year-old singer, songwriter, and producer from Scotland. With a sound that is sassy, nostalgic, and soulful, she draws inspiration from the likes of Freddie Mercury, Raye, and Chappell Roan. In 2022, she was crowned Scottish Young Musicians Best Vocalist and recently graduated with first class honours in music. She is now preparing to release her debut single and EP.
Luson
Luke Wallington, performing under the name Luson, is a singer-songwriter based in Manchester. His music often explores themes of addiction, identity, and self-expression, shaped by his working-class background. His passion for creating honest songs that connect deeply with listeners is evident in tracks such as ‘Babydoll’ and his upcoming single ‘Reckless’.
MAYAlikestorunhermouth
MAYAlikestorunhermouth is an introspective alt-rock and post-punk project. The group have spent a year developing their catalogue through eccentric and energetic live performances on the London music scene, proving them to be ones to watch.
James Pacy
James Pacy transforms his emotions and life experiences into music. He has felt a deep connection to music since childhood, and in March 2024, he released his debut single, ‘Fold’. Since then, all of his releases have been picked as BBC Introducing’s Track of the Day in his local area.
The Pronounced
The Pronounced is a dynamic six-piece band dedicated to delivering high-energy, professional live entertainment. Featuring both male and female lead vocalists, along with a talented lineup of a guitarist, bass guitarist, keys player, and drummer, the collective brings a powerful and versatile sound to every performance.
Rhiannon Paige
Hailing from Bristol, Rhiannon Paige is a country-pop-rock powerhouse with a story as inspiring as her songs. Born with significant hearing loss, she did not let that stop her from falling in love with music and is now making waves in the UK country scene.