By Jade Jones
Published April 29, 2022
Picture courtesy of the No Cover Facebook Page.
We didn't think it was possible, but yet another singing competition is gripping our attention harder than The Voice. No Cover, a series put together by Sumerian Records and Hit Parader, is a show designed to put the spotlight on unsigned bands performing original songs. Like other panel style competitions before it, No Cover features three celebrity hosts: legend in the scene Matt Pinfield, Kellin Quinn of Sleeping with Sirens, and Sirus XM host Caity Babs. In addition, the show includes an interestingly diverse group of judges: Alice Cooper, Lzzy Hale, Bishop Briggs, Tosin Abasi and Gavin Rossdale.
The show is dripping with a familiar, Paradise City feel to it, as it was created by Ash Avildsen, director, producer, and founder of Sumerian Records.
To add some sparkle, the show is filmed at the temple of rock The Troubadour as well as Sunset Strip staple The Sunset Marquis Hotel.
The prize for winning is the stuff dreams are made of (or whatever Lizzie Mcguire said). The winner will receive a six-figure record contract with Sumerian Records, representation by United Talent Agency and Shelter Music Group, the opportunity to perform at a Danny Wimmer Presents Muusic Festival, $10,000 to spend at Guitar Center, even more gear from legendary music retailers Gibson & Ernie Ball, plus even more things in store.
One of the best parts of the show, in my opinion, is the opportunity for the artists who don't get chosen to move on to the next round to be given a second chance in the 'Mercy Council', where the artists are told more in depth the reasons they were not chosen, and what they could have done differently. One of the artists is granted 'mercy' and returns to the competition while the others are sent home with loads of helpful advice, encouragement, and hopefully a few smiles and laughs.
The real question is: what do we think of the show?
It is such a unique way to display musicianship, and encourage real, raw, unfiltered talent. In the most creative way they could, the creators of No Cover are bringing people into the spotlight that otherwise never would have gotten to tell their stories.
From a marketing standpoint, it's brilliant. People are bored of tradition; they want something fresh that reflects the state of the music business as we know it today. As well as this, the show also highlights major music icons and illuminates their status in the realm. And the people at home that are watching the show and plotting their own debut into the music world are taken notes and practicing their craft while not having to pay a thing.
The authenticity of the show and the way that they portray advice to the artist is very wholesome and and extremely helpful. It's not just about highlighting who won and who lost, it's about encouraging the other artists to take whatever advice or tips they've been given, use it, and come back stronger.
Will the show stand the test of time and continue to bring new artists and bands to the forefront? Only one way to find out. There are currently 3 episodes out of No Cover, which are free to watch on YouTube.
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