RLE NEXT UP
HOW RLE NEXT UP WORKS
From nationwide artist search to the RLE NEXT UP finale.
1. APPLY
Applications open November 2, 2026. Artists ages 18+ across the United States may apply. All genres are welcome. There is no application fee, and a paid RLETV subscription is not required to apply.
2. THE TOP 24
RLE will select 24 artists to enter the official Season 1 competition. The Top 24 is scheduled to be publicly revealed January 3, 2027 — until that reveal, no Top 24 has been announced.
3. THE COMPETITION
The Top 24 will compete through six weeks of music, performance, artist development, and fan engagement challenges.
4. FAN SUPPORT
Fans get opportunities to support their favorite artists through RLETV voting. Fan Support represents 25% of the overall competition score — it does not alone determine advancement.
HOW VOTING WORKS →5. FINAL FOUR
Four artists will advance to the Season 1 finale on February 13, 2027, in Houston, Texas. Venue details are TBD.
6. ONE WINNER
One artist becomes the RLE NEXT UP — Season 1 Winner, receiving the official RLE chain, the opportunity to enter an RLE recording agreement, artist development, RLETV featured placement, and release, content, and marketing support. Winning does not automatically sign the artist — the recording agreement remains a separate process.
For complete eligibility, voting, and competition terms, see the Official Rules.