The award winning
music hub for Newham
Next In Line Festival 2025
13 March 2025
Empowering Emerging Artists in East London
Newham Music is excited to announce the launch of Next In Line Festival, a groundbreaking three-day music event. From the 2nd-4th April, high profile headliners such as Terri Walker, Miss Baby Soul, Louis the Hippie, DJ Nickie Cartel, and Brixton Chamber Orchestra will be taking to the stage at Westfield Stratford City. Showcasing a range of musicians and spoken word artists across genres such as indie, rap, soul, jazz, and afrobeat, the festival will provide a vital platform for both established and up-and-coming talent.
Terri Walker is a critically acclaimed R&B singer-songwriter, whose debut album Untitled was nominated for the Mercury Prize. Leading the spoken word portion of the festival is Louis the Hippie; with a social media following of over 100,000, Louis the Hippie is a dynamic spoken word artist, musician, and influential public speaker, who uses his platform to shed light on critical social issues and inspire change. Also in the line up is a genre-bending collaboration between DJ Nickie Cartel and Brixton Chamber Orchestra, who will be doing a live orchestral DJ set.
Next In Line gives the opportunity for underground trailblazers to perform in a blended line-up alongside celebrated headliners. Additionally, in the months leading up to the festival, these emerging artists have participated in the Artist Development Programme. This is the latest initiative in Newham Music’s commitment to nurturing young creatives. From audition to stage, it has been the mission to foster a supportive environment for growth. In partnership with UD Music and Westfield Stratford, this programme will ensure participants are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and connections to thrive in the creative industries.
The highlights of this programme include
- Collaboration Sessions: Quickfire creative workshops designed to foster partnerships and inspire new ideas.
- Writing and Recording Sessions: Artists developed original material with guidance from professional producers and mentors.
- Creative Mentoring and Coaching: One-on-one support from experienced industry professionals, including coaches and mentors who have worked with major artists such as Beyoncé, Grace Jones, Akon, Eminem, Rihanna, and Christina Aguilera
John Bergin, CEO of Newham Music says:
‘Next In Line is a proud milestone for Newham Music. We are dedicated to championing our local talent and reshaping the creative landscape, ensuring every emerging artist has a stage to shine.’
Next In Line aims to break down barriers to creative careers, by combining artistic excellence with developmental support. It will ensure opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds to connect with industry leaders and forge sustainable pathways in the arts. Free performances and open workshops will invite the local community to connect with Newham’s vibrant creative scene. Get ready for an electrifying musical experience!
Social Media: Instagram – @nextinlinefestival TikTok – @nextinlinefestival
