Amex Unsigned returns for 2025
'Amex Unsigned' is back for 2025, and aspiring, unsigned music artists can be in with a chance of getting a once-in-a-lifetime big break.
Aspiring music artists hoping for a big break are urged to apply for 'Amex Unsigned'.
Those who are unsigned and are keen to break down barriers can be in with the chance of snapping up a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with renowned producer, artist and composer Danny L Harle over three days in the spring.
The lucky six can devise a track, adapt arrangements, sample or explore new music concepts and instruments.
The 35-year-old asteemed star - who has written tracks performed by the likes of 39-year-old alternative pop star Caroline Polachek, and 29-year-old music sensation Dua Lipa - understands how getting the foot in the door can be life-changing.
He said: "With it being harder than ever to break into the music industry, 'Amex Unsigned' is a valuable platform to help artists access resources.
"I know from personal experience that getting that first break makes all the difference, and I’m looking forward to working with these aspiring artists and hearing their music.”
The initiative - which helps create breakthrough opportunities for emerging music talent through access to live gigs and mentorship from the very best - will also see the successful candidates record at London’s iconic Metropolis Studios.
Also, they will get the chance to submit their music to potentially feature in an Amex ad campaign, as well as the opportunity to perform at a live showcase at The Dome, in Tufnell Park, London.
The announcement comes as new research by 'Amex Unsigned' reveals the “true cost of breaking through” for a British-based unsigned artist in 2025, who is now spending an estimated £8,449 annually just to perform and record new music.
This includes studio time and sound engineers (average £2,086 per year), equipment (£1,403), and performing (£1,254); all before they’ve even landed a deal.
The research also showed that two-thirds (66 per cent) of unsigned artists think greater access to professional studios would improve their chances of career success, with some waiting up to eight months for time in the recording studio.
This impacts the motivations and aspirations of emerging artists, with over half (51 per cent) saying it’s more challenging now than it’s ever been to break through and become a signed artist. That said, two in five (40 per cent) feel that overcoming these hurdles would make a huge difference to their career by increasing their potential opportunities to be discovered in a challenging but rewarding industry.
Dave Edwards, vice president of Demand Generation at American Express said: “Working so closely with emerging artists over the past three years, we know all too well the hurdles they face.
"Through the 'Amex Unsigned' initiative, artists can have experiences that help break down barriers in an increasingly tough industry.
"Every year, we look for ways to evolve 'Unsigned', to help open more doors for aspiring artists, creating unprecedented breakthrough opportunities for artists across a breadth of genres.”
'Unsigned' music artists are encouraged to apply by Tuesday, February 11, 2025, before a panel of industry experts will whittle the candidates down to six.
To find out more information and to apply, click here.
