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Case Studies

Josh Hicks Goes From Open Mic Competition to Management Deal

Photograph of the blog post author, Music Gateway Team

Music Gateway Team

25.4.2023

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josh hicks

Artist Development helped to pave the way for Josh Hicks to collaborate and perform live.

22-year-old pop artist Josh Hicks joined Music Gateway’s Artist Development roster after being scouted by Music Gateway’s Head of A&R following his Open Mic UK win in 2021. Working closely with his manager, Josh has vastly increased his professional network. He also found collaboration opportunities in preparation for the release of his debut record later in 2023.

Born in Newport, South Wales, Josh Hicks is a natural entertainer. He has a classic pop sound that embodies soulful yet subtle jazz inclinations. In 2021, Josh Hicks won the Open Mic UK competition. Speaking about Josh’s Open Mic UK win, the competition’s Founder & CEO, Chris Grayston, said, “Josh has a unique way of conveying the emotional message of his music exceptionally well. He was a very worthy winner.” Following his big win, Music Gateway scouted Josh Hicks to take his career to the next level with Artist Development.

Josh Hicks & Music Gateway

Working closely, we paired Josh Hicks with elite music manager Karen T, best known for managing multi-platinum-selling artist Emeli Sandé. Working with Josh three times a month and recognising his potential. Later, they signed a management deal in which Karen created collaboration opportunities with talented producers and songwriters. They worked closely on his development and music releases with the Music Gateway team. “After I won the Open Mic, I was scouted by Music Gateway… It’s so helpful. Before I had my manager, Karen, I didn’t know what I was doing.”

Josh Hicks has since performed shows around the country, including at the Countdown to Christmas in Newport City Centre, where he opened for Brit award-winning boy band 5ive. He now has a band based in London and has been travelling to Southampton to record new music with a leading producer, ShatterJack, expected in May 2023.


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