The new TikTok LIVE singing competition gives emerging artists the chance to perform LIVE, build their fanbase, and own the spotlight at the iHeartRadio Theater in Los Angeles.

TikTok, in partnership with iHeartRadio, is launching Next up: Live Music, a new singing competition powered by TikTok LIVE. Kicking off July 28 and running through September, the program invites the TikTok community to discover and elevate emerging talent through a dynamic, multi-stage journey. Fans can follow rising artists in real time, engage directly with their performances, and help shape their path to the spotlight — culminating in an epic live finale at the iconic iHeartRadio Theater in Los Angeles on September 26.

This competition highlights the power of TikTok LIVE and iHeartRadio by turning music discovery into an interactive, community-driven journey. For artists, it's a launchpad to break through. For fans, it's a front-row seat to discover and support the next generation of stars — and a direct role in deciding who advances.

Contestants will move through each phase of the competition based on a combination of engagement from the TikTok community and judges' scores. The artists who receive the highest number of likes, views, comments, shares, and overall support during their live performances, along with strong feedback from the judges, will advance to the next round. Every view, interaction, and score counts, putting the power to elevate new talent into the hands of both fans and experts.

"TikTok LIVE gives fans the power to engage directly, support their favorite performers, and truly shape their journey to success," said Shen Gao, Head of LIVE Operations, Americas at TikTok, "TikTok has long been a launchpad for musical talent, helping undiscovered artists break through and reach global audiences. Together with iHeart, Next Up: LIVE Music is building on that legacy by turning discovery into a shared, real-time experience."

“TikTok and iHeartRadio are powerful engines for artist discovery and showcasing new talent,” said Tom Poleman, Chief Programming Officer at iHeartMedia. “Together, we’re creating a pipeline that turns emerging voices into tomorrow’s headliners and with iHeartRadio we have the reach and influence to bring those artists to the masses.”


The Road to the iHeartRadio Theater

The competition will stream live on TikTok in three distinct phases, giving fans a front-row seat to follow, engage with, and support their favorite emerging artists:

  • Auditions (July 28 to August 11): Open to all eligible creators. Top 50 selected
  • Semi-Finals (August 25 to 29): The Top 50 compete for a spot in the Top 12
  • Finale (September 26): The Top 12 perform live at the iHeartRadio Theater in Burbank, California


Who Can Enter

Next Up: LIVE Music is open to emerging artists across every genre — Pop, R&B, Hip Hop, Indie, and even classical crossover. Artists ready to share their voice and connect with fans in real time must meet the following criteria:

  • U.S. resident, age 18 or older
  • Own rights to at least one original song
  • 50,000+ followers on TikTok with consistent engagement
  • LIVE-ready and comfortable performing in real time
  • Ability to attend the in-person finale (if selected)
  • Unsigned by a major label or have label clearance to compete


What’s in it for Artists

This isn’t just a contest, it’s a launchpad. Up-and-coming artists will gain access to tools, exposure, and experiences that support long-term success:

  • Livestream training and support to help creators develop confidence and presence on TikTok LIVE
  • Audience growth opportunities through a highly visible, creator-first competition
  • A chance to perform live at the iHeartRadio Theater in front of a national audience
  • Community and connection with fellow music creators across the TikTok platform


TikTok: The Future of Music Discovery

TikTok continues to lead in music discovery and artist promotion. From viral sensations to global headliners, TikTok is where music careers are built, sustained, and celebrated. Artists use TikTok to connect with fans, promote releases, and turn songs into cultural moments.

With Next Up: LIVE Music, TikTok LIVE is offering artists a new path to grow their audience, build their brand, and step into the spotlight through real-time performance and community connection.

Follow the competition on TikTok LIVE and @iHeartRadio as the next wave of music talent takes center stage.