For more than two decades globally,\u00a0Live Nation\u2019s ONES TO WATCH\u00a0has built its reputation on identifying tomorrow\u2019s headline acts before the rest of the industry catches up. Returning to Melbourne on\u00a0Wednesday 5 August, the showcase once again places the spotlight firmly on emerging Australian talent, with\u00a0Miles Nautu,\u00a0Gazal\u00a0and\u00a0Lara Buchanantaking over the newly opened\u00a0Smith St. Hotel.<\/p>\n
Since launching in Australia in 2021,\u00a0ONES TO WATCH\u00a0has become an important platform for developing artists, offering intimate performances that prioritise discovery over spectacle. Previous editions have helped introduce audiences to artists at pivotal moments in their careers, continuing a global tradition that has included early support for names such as\u00a0Dua Lipa,\u00a0Olivia Rodrigo\u00a0and\u00a0Halsey\u00a0before they became international stars.<\/p>\n
Leading the Melbourne lineup is\u00a0Miles Nautu, whose blend of hip hop, jazz, soul and alternative music has quickly established him as one of Australia\u2019s most compelling young voices. Inspired by artists including\u00a0Kendrick Lamar,\u00a0Yasiin Bey\u00a0and\u00a0Joey Bada$$, the Indigenous Australian\/Fijian songwriter has enjoyed a breakthrough year, following the release of his debut EP\u00a0the front\u00a0with appearances at\u00a0Vivid LIVE\u00a0and an upcoming slot at\u00a0Move My Way Festivalalongside\u00a0Ezra Collective\u00a0and\u00a0Freddie Gibbs.<\/p>\n
Joining him is Sydney\u2019s\u00a0Gazal, whose emotionally charged alternative pop has earned comparisons to\u00a0FKA twigs,\u00a0Doechii\u00a0and\u00a0Lykke Li. Her latest EP,\u00a0Gods Into Frauds, has continued to build momentum, while collaborations with producers and writers connected to artists including\u00a0SZA,\u00a0Sabrina Carpenter,\u00a0G Flip\u00a0and\u00a0Vera Blue\u00a0have further cemented her reputation as one of Australia\u2019s most exciting emerging songwriters.<\/p>\n
Completing the bill is Melbourne artist\u00a0Lara Buchanan, whose expansive songwriting has drawn comparisons to\u00a0Ethel Cain,\u00a0Wolf Alice\u00a0and\u00a0Lorde. Since releasing her\u00a0Sugar Coated Fantasy\u00a0EP, Buchanan has continued to refine a sound that balances intimate lyricism with cinematic alternative pop, positioning her as another artist to watch as 2026 unfolds.<\/p>\n
The event also marks one of the first major music showcases at\u00a0Smith St. Hotel, the newly launched Fitzroy venue opening its doors only days before hosting the series. Given the area\u2019s long-standing association with Melbourne\u2019s live music culture, the venue provides an appropriate backdrop for a showcase built around the next generation of Australian artists.<\/p>\n
With a track record of introducing audiences to future stars,\u00a0ONES TO WATCH\u00a0continues to fulfil its original purpose: creating a space where emerging artists and curious audiences meet before the wider world catches on.<\/p>\n