THE NEXT UP AWARDS

Northern Ireland’s first award show fully dedicated to urban music — spotlighting rising talent in hip-hop, drill, R&B, Afrobeat, and everything in between.

THIS PAGE IS YOUR HUB TO:

🏆 Nominate yourself or someone else for an award or performance slot

  • 🎟 Buy tickets for both venues (£35 for full access, food & drink included, £25 for Awards access)

  • 📋 Learn more about the schedule, categories, and performers

  • Attendees get an unforgettable day of live music, panels, networking, good food, and front-row seats to the next generation of stars.

This isn’t just a show. It’s a moment.
Scroll down, lock in, and get involved.

LINEUP & EVENT RUNTIMES

ULSTER BANK NI, BELFAST CITY OFFICE

4:00PM DOORS OPEN: Refreshments and time to network

4:30PM FIRST PANEL: Music Industry Professionals - TBC

5:00PM SECOND PANEL: PR and Music Marketing - TBC

5:30PM THIRD PANEL: Local Music Industry - TBC

6:30PM-9:00PM AWARD SHOW: A celebration of local music and recognition for underground genres and artists

THE MARCUS WARD

9:30PM DOORS OPEN: National and Internationally acclaimed acts. DJ until late.

GET YOUR TICKETS BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! LIMITED AVAILABILITY

NOMINATIONS -

NOMINATIONS -

NOMINATE YOURSELF OR SOMEONE ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE WIN A NEXT UP AWARD:

Please remember that in order for a work, artist or organisation to qualify for 2025´s Next Up Awards, the nominated work/contribution must have been made on or after 01/01/2025.

“The difference between winning and losing is most often not quitting”

THE PRIZE

Winners will receive custom awards and a chance to be introduced to industry professionals from PRS, PPL, Arts Council, and Atlantic Records — with potential for mentorship, funding, and exposure.

OUR PARTNERS

  • PRS FOUNDATION

    Talent development network and funder

  • ARTS COUNCIL NORTHERN IRELAND

    Local funding authority for the arts

  • BELFAST CITY COUNCIL

    Belfast city council

  • PPL

    The UK´s music licensing company

  • ATLANTIC RECORDS

    Record label

  • ED SHEERAN FOUNDATION

    Ed Sheeran´s foundation in support of musical education