Emerging artists across the region are being given the chance to win a £2,500 cash prize and secure a guaranteed slot on the Sound City 2027 lineup, as Royal Albert Dock launches its search for the first-ever Dock Star this May.
In partnership with Sound City, Culture Liverpool and Liverpool BID, the initiative is a headline feature of the city’s new Liverpool Music Month.
This year’s celebrations hold particular significance as they mark the 10th anniversary of Liverpool being designated a UNESCO City of Music.
Dock Star is a call-out for musicians, singers, and bands of all genres, aiming to uncover the next big musical talent and offer a unique opportunity to perform at one of Liverpool’s most iconic waterfront destinations.
A Stage for Local Grassroots Talent
Throughout May, dedicated performance spots will be set up across the estate, giving artists free access to perform live, and turning the dock into a stage for grassroots talent.
Members of the public will play a key role in deciding the winner, with audiences encouraged to vote for their favourite act via QR codes located at each performance spot.
The artist or band who stops the most people in their tracks will be crowned the ‘Dock Star’ and take home an unmissable prize.
This will include a £2,500 cash prize, alongside a guaranteed slot on the Sound City 2027 lineup and the chance to get in front of record label Modern Sky, whose roster includes Jamie Webster and Red Rum Club, offering a major platform to reach new fans and industry professionals.
Royal Albert Dock Estate Manager, Sean Morrison, said:
“Music is at the heart of Liverpool’s identity, and Dock Star is all about celebrating that spirit while giving emerging artists a powerful platform to be seen and heard.
“We are thrilled to partner with Sound City and Culture Liverpool to offer such a significant prize. It’s a chance for us to showcase the city’s incredible talent and give one act a life-changing boost into the professional industry.”
Support for the Next Generation of Musicians
Becky Ayres, Managing Director for Sound City, adds:
“We are so excited to work with the dock on Dockstars as part of Liverpool Music Month.
“Sound City is all about discovering the next generation of musical talent, and it’s amazing that people walking around our famous waterfront during May will be able to see live music.
“It is brilliant that artists performing will have the chance to win a career-changing prize, including £2,500 and the opportunity to get in front of our record label and perform at Sound City 2027, I can’t wait!”
Dock Star 2026 is part of a wider programme of events taking place during Liverpool Music Month this May, reinforcing Liverpool’s reputation as a global hub for music and creativity.
To learn more about Dock Star, you can visit the official Royal Albert Dock website.
