The hunt is on for the UK’s next pop sensation, and it could be someone from your local!
Proper Pubs – the award-winning community pub division of Admiral Taverns – has officially launched Proper Pub Idol, a nationwide karaoke competition that will see 21 pubs across the East Midlands hosting heats in search of undiscovered talent.
Picture credit: Proper Pubs
The competition kicks off on Monday 1st September, with local pub-goers invited to take the mic and show off their vocal chops. Weekly pub heats will run until 5th October, with the top three singers from each week advancing to their venue’s grand final.
At stake? A national title, £1,000 cash, and an exclusive studio recording day where the winner will get the chance to record their very own single. The runner-up will walk away with £500, while third place will earn £250.
The competition spans across 21 participating East Midlands venues, including:
Barley Mow, Leicester
Ashby Tavern, Hinckley
Generous Briton, Melton Mowbray
Loughborough Arms, Loughborough
Princes Feathers, Hinckley
Each pub will host weekly heats, where the winner receives a bottle of Prosecco and a chance to progress to the pub finals during the week commencing 6th October. From there, the pub winner and runner-up head to a regional final in the week of 20th October, where contestants will compete for a £100 bar tab and a place in the national grand final.
The journey concludes on Sunday 16th November, when finalists will perform in front of a panel of independent judges at a Proper Pub in Leeds. The ultimate winner will receive £1,000 and the opportunity of a lifetime: a professional studio recording session to lay down their first track.
Sponsored by VK, Proper Pub Idol is part of a wider initiative to bring communities together and spotlight local talent in a fun, supportive environment.
“Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a shower-singing superstar, this could be your big break,” said a spokesman for the event.
“Pop down to your local participating Proper Pub and take your shot at stardom — and maybe even take home the title of Proper Pub Idol 2025.
“For more information on how to enter or what to expect at your local pub, just ask behind the bar or check out your local pub’s social media.”
