BIGSOUND announces in-person return in 2021

Annual music industry conference BIGSOUND has announced its return in 2021, confirming an in-person event in Brisbane across three days in September.

BIGSOUND will be held between September 7-9, kicking off with the Indigenous showcase and women in music event. Over the course of the three evenings, roughly 150 artists will perform in venues across the Fortitude Valley as part of the annual showcase.

Artist applications are open now and close on May 28.

"This year, BIGSOUND will provide the chance for us to collectively grieve the losses the industry has faced over the past year and celebrate the treasure trove of Australasian talent that has been incubating throughout this time," BIGSOUND executive producer Angela Samut said.

"Our commitment to rebuilding a stronger, safer, more inclusive industry as we emerge from COVID has never been greater and BIGSOUND is once again stepping up to the plate as the place where people come to discover the future of music and to be part of the future of music."

The Levi's Music Prize will also make a return, with $90,000 worth of cash prizes available, with $15,000 awarded to three artists selected to showcase at the conference.

Last year's BIGSOUND was a completely virtual and free event in light of the pandemic. Though in-person events will be held again, organisers have also said "digital doors will be open for business" for delegates who cannot physically attend.