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    You’ve got the talent.
    We’ve got the stage.

Meet Next Stage.

A platform built for emerging musicians, singers, songwriters, or even producers.

Visa and top music partners bring you the tools, insights, and expert content to help you grow plus earn from your music.

Join the movement on TikTok with #VisaNextStage and take the next step in your journey.

In partnership with

What’s Next Stage?

Everyone

Access free expert content on how to monetize music, protect your rights, and grow your audience.

Top 30

Visa supports your journey with production tools. Share your sound and get a chance to receive a home recording kit for you to take your talent to the Next Stage. 

Top 8

Win an all-expenses-paid trip to Dubai for a 2-day bootcamp with mentors from Universal Music Group, Spotify, TikTok, and a surprise guest artist.

Top 4

  • Get signed by Universal Music Group and release a professionally produced EP.
  • Be featured in exclusive campaigns by Visa, TikTok, and Spotify, reaching new fans worldwide.
  • Create an original football-themed track for Visa to showcase during the year’s biggest event.

Expert tips

Turning tracks into income

Learn how to get paid for your passion of making music.

Universal Music group

Play & Earn

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Spotify

How playlisting pays

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How the Money Flows

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Mastering the music game

Here’s what the experts have to say on how you can build your brand in music.

Universal Music group

Artist Kickoff 

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TikTok

Content ideas for Artists 

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Your Song's Marketing Strategy

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Unlocking industry insights 

Everything you need to know on understanding and leveraging
data and insights.

Universal Music group

Artist Discovery

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Spotify

Pre-Save Strategy 101

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TikTok

Tiktok Analytics Breakdown 

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How to Apply

Set your stage and share it to the world:

Step 1: Audition on TikTok

  • Use the official Visa filter on TikTok with #VisaNextStage.
  • Make sure your video showcases your original music and artistry.

Step 2: Get Noticed

  • A panel from Universal Music Group, TikTok, Spotify, and guest mentors will review submissions.
  • Top 30 artists are chosen for originality, performance, and potential.

Step 3: Make the Shortlist

  • Top 30: Selected by judges and receive support from Visa.
  • Top 8: Invited to a Dubai bootcamp with industry leaders.
  • Top 4: Unlock major next-stage career opportunities.

Step 4: Bootcamp in Dubai

  • The Top 8 will be flown to Dubai for a fully funded 2-day bootcamp.
  • Learn directly from Universal Music Group, Spotify, TikTok, and a special guest artist.

Step 5: Win Big

  • Final 4 artists selected for the ultimate prize:
    • A Universal Music Group signing and EP release.
    • Dedicated TikTok and Spotify campaigns.
    • Industry-level exposure and more.

Submit your performance. 

Use the effect.
Take it to the Next Stage.

  • Key Dates

    Audition Period: 01 Jan - 28 Feb

    Top 30 Announced: 01 Mar - 10 Mar

    Shortlist (Top 8) Announced: 26 April - 05 May

    Bootcamp in Dubai: 11 May - 20 May

    Winners Announced: 31 May