The search is on again for new and emerging Australian independent artists with entries open today for the New Artists 2 Radio (NA2R) competition, which is celebrating its tenth year. The winning artists get a guaranteed $1.3 million worth of air time on commercial radio. The event is open to unsigned independent artists who have not charted in the top 100 Australian national airplay chart.

This year, Commercial Radio Australia has the direct support of AIR (Australian Independent Record Labels Association).  

Nick O’Byrne, general manager, AIR says, “There’s a place for great Australian independent music on commercial radio and for that reason AIR is happy to support an initiative like NA2R. NA2R provides an opportunity for independent artists to open the door to the mainstream, the chance to present your music to the decision makers of Australia’s widest reaching radio stations. Entry is free, what have you got to lose?”

NA2R is an industry-wide initiative which has helped launched some very successful music careers since its inception including artists like Delta Goodrem, Sarah Blasko, Thirsty Merc, Jade McRae, the Sunpilots, Ashleigh Mannix, Finabah and The Smart.

Last year’s winners, Radio Ink and The Smart have both enjoyed commercial exposure over the past twelve months.

Johny Leighton, keyboard player from The Smart, says, ”The NA2R event opens the door for commercial exposure which can kick start your band. The international and national exposure from NA2R helped give us the opportunity to support stars like Bon Jovi in concert.”

Ten finalists will be selected with two winners being announced. Winners will have the chance of six weeks guaranteed airplay, across the day, on the major metropolitan and regional commercial radio networks valued at $1.3 million.

NA2R entrants will be in the running for:

• The two winners will perform at the NA2R showcase event to be held on the Gold Coast on October 14 in front of key music and program directors.

• Six weeks of airplay, across the day to the value of $1.3 million, on the Australian Radio Network, Austereo, DMG Radio, Macquarie Southern Cross Media, ACE Radio, Prime Radio and Grant Broadcasters for a minimum of six weeks – to ensure maximum exposure.     

• A digital distribution deal with MGM for online sales via ITunes, Nokia, 3, Big Pond. All winning singles will be submitted to ARIA and AIR for inclusion in the singles chart survey.

• Professional advice from VGM (Media & Marketing) regarding mainstream media, electronic and digital marketing, artist management, sales capacities and cover design for digital radio servicing.

• All finalists will also attend a radio workshop with leading program and music directors and music marketing professionals. The NA2R workshop offers invaluable insight about how to maximize commercial radio airplay and exposure – a popular feature of the event aimed at helping artists. The workshop will be held in Sydney on September 9.

Artists and bands can enter online at www.na2r.com.au by uploading two of their best commercial tracks, a biography and photo. Entries will be accepted until June 10.

Submissions will be judged by a panel of commercial radio network program and music directors, based on their commercial radio play potential.