HYBE Opens Global Search for the Next Generation of Pop Producers

The company behind BTS is inviting emerging producers to compete for opportunities across four labels.

HYBE has opened the 2026 edition of its Next New Creator audition, a global search for pop-music producers. Successful participants may receive opportunities to work across four labels within the South Korean entertainment group.

The initiative reflects the increasing visibility of producers as central creative figures in contemporary entertainment companies. Song construction, sonic branding, vocal production, beat programming and cross-cultural collaboration have become critical components of international artist development.

This opportunity should be of interest to producers across Jamaica, the Caribbean and Africa. The rhythmic intelligence developed through dancehall, reggae, soca, Afrobeats, amapiano, gqom, highlife and other Black traditions already influences global pop production.

The challenge is converting that influence into recognised credits, contracts, publishing ownership and durable professional relationships.

Caribbean and African producers should approach global auditions not as suppliers of anonymous “flavour” but as composers and creative partners with identifiable rights. Before submitting work, entrants should study ownership clauses, confidentiality provisions, royalty arrangements and the treatment of unsuccessful material.