ROSTR and Bandsintown launch EARLY industry showcases
ROSTR and Bandsintown launch EARLY, a new live showcase series designed to connect emerging artists with industry decision-makers and tastemakers. Applications for interested artists are open now for the debut event in LA this October.
ROSTR and Bandsintown launch EARLY industry showcases
During conversations with industry professionals ROSTR and Bandsintown identified two needs:
- Artists are crying out for credible stages where the right industry people show up with intent to scout
- Industry pros need curated, time-efficient ways to discover talent that is stage-ready and has momentum
The goal of EARLY is to fill both of those needs in a live A&R environment that pairs an independent, curated lineup with a room full of decision makers.
“ROSTR’s mission has always been to support the people who work with artists, so that they can better support the artists they work with,” said Mark Williamson, ROSTR Co-Founder and CEO. “With EARLY, we’re hoping to extend this mission into the live space, creating independent opportunities for emerging artists to connect directly with the industry professionals who can help them take the next step in their careers.”
In addition to marketing the showcases, Bandsintown will provide EARLY artists with promotional support that reaches millions of fans globally via promotional placements and custom campaigns across its leading global platform.
“Establishing meaningful industry connections is a real challenge for developing artists,” said Fabrice Sergent, Bandsintown co-founder and Managing Partner, “and EARLY embodies the kind of independent showcase platform that we champion – one that creates value and equal opportunity for artists to get discovered and grow their careers.”
An online content series will also showcase EARLY artists to tens of thousands of industry professionals across ROSTR’s global online audience.
EARLY debuts Oct 16th
EARLY will debut on Thursday October 16 at El Cid in Silver Lake, LA with three acts performing 30-minute sets in front of 400 invited industry guests. There will also be a 45-minute headline DJ set.
During 2026 the partners plan to make EARLY a regular event.
How To Apply For an EARLY Showcase
Artists can apply for consideration by completing the EARLY submission form by 11pm PT on Sunday, September 7, 2025. The ROSTR team will curate the lineup based on fit for the room and the night.
The debut edition of EARLY is looking for acts that will fit an upbeat, high-energy bill. Artists should be at a stage where they’re ready to perform in front of industry, and can provide private links to past live shows.
Unsuccessful submissions may also be considered for future EARLY events.
Bruce Houghton
