Back To The City Festival Opens Life Changing Opportunity for Gauteng’s Unsigned Artists

In a world where unsigned artists are often overlooked, opportunities to shine on major platforms are rare. But this winter, Back To The City Festival, one of South Africa’s most celebrated cultural movements, is flipping the script — and putting independent Gauteng artists at the forefront. It’s a story of unheard voices, untold stories, and raw talent waiting to be discovered. In countless townships, bedrooms, garages, and makeshift studios, passionate young musicians are creating music with soul and purpose, dreaming of sharing it with the world. This June, those dreams could finally take flight.

The call is simple yet powerful: Are you an unsigned artist sitting on a fully recorded album or EP? Is your music ready, but you’ve lacked the resources to get it onto platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer, Tidal, and more? If your answer is yes — this is your moment. For one week only, from 25–30 June 2025, the festival is opening applications for 50 independent Gauteng-based artists to get their music professionally uploaded to all major digital streaming services. And here’s the kicker, every cent you make from your streams is 100% yours. This initiative isn’t just about uploading songs. It’s about education and empowerment too. Selected artists will attend a 1-day Music Rights Workshop, equipping them with vital knowledge about their rights, royalties, and navigating the music business.

On top of that, artists will get assistance building a professional Electronic Press Kit (EPK) — a must-have tool for securing gigs, media features, and growing an artist’s career. All genres are welcome. Whether you’re a jazz trio from Mamelodi, a soul singer from Katlehong, a hip-hop crew from Soweto, or a gospel choir from Tembisa — your sound matters, and your community deserves to hear it.

Here’s How You Can Be Part of the Story
If you fit the profile:
– Aged between 18–35
– Based in Gauteng
– Not signed to any record label
– Own your original music
– Have a full recorded album or EP

Then don’t wait, send an email to streamgauteng@gmail.com with:
– Your artist profile
– 1 MP3 single
– Your full names, surname
– Where you’re from
– And your contact details
Important: Only one email per artist, so make sure your submission counts. Applications are open from 25–30 June 2025. No extensions. No second chances.

This isn’t just another music upload. It’s a cultural moment, a space where Gauteng’s homegrown talents finally get their dues. The Back To The City Festival, with its 17-year legacy of celebrating hip-hop, creativity, and community, is opening its arms to all genres for this special initiative.

Tickets for the Back To The City Festival are available now at Webtickets and Pick n Pay outlets. For more information visit: www.backtothecityfestival.com

Your story matters. Your voice deserves to be heard. This is your moment — don’t let it pass you by.