Sam Smith has teamed up with BBC Introducing to search for ten emerging artists to open the singer’s UK residency shows in Manchester and London this September.
The announcement was made by Sam on Radio 1’s New Music Show with Jack Saunders, with aspiring musicians invited to submit their music through the BBC Introducing Uploader between 29 July and 5 August using the ‘Sam Smith’ tag.
A panel from BBC Introducing will create a shortlist before Sam personally selects the final ten artists, who will be revealed later this summer.
The successful acts will each perform at one of Sam’s residency shows and receive support across BBC Introducing platforms.
The Manchester and London residencies follow the release of Sam’s new album, Hazel Eyes, in August, with two nights scheduled at Manchester’s Albert Hall and eight performances at London’s Coliseum.
Speaking about the partnership, Sam expressed excitement to be working with BBC Introducing and highlighted the importance of discovering new talent, both for emerging artists and for audiences looking to find their next favourite act.
Lorna Clarke, Director of BBC Music, said the collaboration demonstrates the organisation’s ongoing commitment to supporting new artists while connecting audiences with some of the world’s biggest names.
Kelly Betts, Editor of BBC Introducing, added that the partnership will give ten new acts the opportunity to open for Sam’s September shows and showcase the next generation of UK music.