EMM PRESENTS
NEXTUP NYC
THE STAGE IS YOURS.
More than a concert. More than a competition.
A live music experience bringing emerging artists, creators, and music lovers together for a night of raw talent, real connections, and unforgettable performances.
PERFORM. NETWORK. GET DISCOVERED.
What is emm next up NYC?
MORE THAN A STAGE. IT'S A MOVEMENT.
EMM NextUp NYC is where rising talent, creativity, business, and opportunity collide. Built for the artists putting in the work, the creators shaping the culture, the entrepreneurs building their brands, and the people who want to be part of what's next.
We're bringing NYC's emerging music scene together for an electrifying experience featuring live artist performances, music competitions, $1,000 in grand prizes, media coverage, content creation, local vendors, food, drinks, and nonstop vibes.
But NextUp is bigger than the music. It's a space where artists gain exposure, content creators build their portfolios, media outlets capture emerging talent, and businesses showcase and sell their products to a live audience. From connecting with potential collaborators to discovering new brands and building valuable industry relationships, every corner of the room creates an opportunity.
Whether you're stepping on stage, behind the camera, representing your business, covering the event, or simply coming to enjoy the show, EMM NextUp NYC puts you in the mix.
Come for the music. Stay for the vibes. Leave with connections.
REAL TALENT. REAL CONNECTIONS. REAL OPPORTUNITIES.
Perform. Network. Get Discovered.
Find your plACE
ARTIST
Your music deserves to be heard. Apply to perform live, grow your audience, and compete for the grand prize.
CONTENT CREATORS/MEDIA COVERAGE
Capture the energy, create standout content, and connect with emerging talent in a live music environment.
VENDORS/SMALL BUSINESSES
Bring your brand into the spotlight. Showcase your products and connect with artists, creators, and concertgoers.
How EMM NextUp works
01
APPLY
Submit your artist application.
02
GET SELECTED
Selected artists receive performance details.
03
TAKE THE STAGE
Perform in front of a live audience.
04
COMPETE
Make your mark and compete for the grand prize.
grand prizes
$1,000 IN GRAND PRIZES
THREE WINNERS. ONE STAGE. YOUR SHOT AT THE TOP.
The spotlight is on, and the competition is real. EMM NextUp NYC is giving emerging artists the chance to showcase their talent, win over the crowd, and compete for $1,000 in cash prizes!
THE PRIZE BREAKDOWN
1ST PLACE — $500
2ND PLACE — $300
3RD PLACE — $200
THE POWER IS IN THE VOTE.
Once the performances end, the competition continues! Fans and supporters will have 48 hours to cast their votes online and show love to their favorite artists.
Every performance counts. Every vote matters.
AND THE CROWD CAN WIN, TOO!
The excitement doesn't stop on stage. Guests can get in on the action with interactive contests, special giveaways, and chances to win prizes throughout the event.
BIG TALENT. BIG ENERGY. BIG REWARDS.
Think you've got what it takes to be NEXTUP?
*APPLY TO COMPETE
THE NEXTUP CONCERT EXPERIENCE
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VIP, FOOD & DRINKS
Good drinks. Great food. VIP vibes.
Upgrade your night with VIP admission, including one mixed drink, one shot, and food! Enjoy Don Julio, Hennessy, Blue Hawaiian, signature rum punch, chicken, and crispy fries. Plus, a designated smoking section, subject to venue approval.
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LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
The music is live. The competition is real.
Get ready for an electrifying night featuring NYC's rising artists battling it out for $1,000 in grand prizes — $500 for first place, $300 for second, and $200 for third. Discover fresh talent, cheer on your favorite performers, and keep the excitement going with 48-hour online voting after the show. Plus, guests can join the fun with interactive contests, giveaways, and opportunities to win prizes of their own.
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SHOP THE VENDORS
Your next favorite brand might be in the building.
There's more to explore beyond the stage! Browse an exciting marketplace featuring local businesses, independent brands, and entrepreneurs showcasing fashion, streetwear, beauty, accessories, merchandise, and unique products. Shop directly from vendors, discover new brands, and support NYC's growing business community — all while enjoying music, food, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere.
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NETWORK & CONNECT
Be in the room where opportunities happen.
NextUp brings together artists, content creators, photographers, videographers, media outlets, business owners, and music lovers for more than just entertainment. Meet new people, exchange contacts, capture content, explore collaborations, and build relationships that extend beyond the night. Whether you're promoting your brand, growing your audience, or simply connecting with ambitious creatives, this is your chance to be part of NYC's next wave.
Upcoming Events
EMM NextUp NYc Christmas edition
Secure Your Spot. Step in. Win together.
December 19th, 2026
New York City
Frequently asked questions
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Absolutely not! At EMM NextUp, we don't care about your follower count or views. We're looking for real talent, originality, stage presence, and artists ready to showcase their music. Your talent speaks louder than your numbers.
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No! Approved content creators, photographers, videographers, and media outlets can attend and cover the event completely FREE. Registration and approval are required.
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How old do I have to be to attend?
EMM NextUp NYC is strictly an 18+ event. Guests must be 21 or older to purchase or consume alcohol. Valid government-issued photo ID is required.
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VIP admission includes entry to the concert, one mixed drink, one shot, and food, featuring chicken and French fries. Drink selections include Blue Hawaiian, signature rum punch, Don Julio, and Hennessy. Alcoholic beverages are available to guests 21+ only.
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Selected artists perform live for a chance to win $1,000 in grand prizes: $500 for first place, $300 for second, and $200 for third. Online voting will remain open for 48 hours following the performances.