BBC Introducing

How it works

At its core the initiative links local shows to wider BBC output. Musicians can upload tracks through the platform for consideration; regional producers and volunteer presenters curate material for their local shows, and standout tracks may be passed on to national stations and specialist programmes.

Key components include:

• an online upload and discovery portal
• regional radio programmes staffed by local DJs and producers
• a selection process that can move artists from local airplay to national shows

For more information or to submit music, see the BBC Introducing site.

History and development

The strand emerged within the BBC to create a structured pipeline for new music, building links between community-level broadcasting and larger national outlets. Over time it expanded its reach with online services, dedicated festival stages and in-studio live sessions.

Activities, events and impact

BBC Introducing supports artists in several practical ways: airplay on regional and national shows, live session recordings, and performance slots at festivals and special events. Many artists have gained wider recognition after initial exposure through the platform, and the scheme is often credited with broadening access to radio and industry attention.

Distinctive features

Its decentralised model—local curation feeding a national network—distinguishes the initiative from conventional A&R. It is genre-inclusive, free to use for artists, and designed to spotlight music that might otherwise be overlooked by mainstream channels.