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Trailblazer is back… and 2027 is already shaping up to be the biggest, boldest, and most career‑defining edition yet. Upstaged Limited is officially calling on rising rock bands across the UK to step forward, plug in, and seize the chance to earn a coveted slot at Call of the Wild Festival 2027.

 On 19–20 March 2027, the legendary Corporation, Sheffield becomes the proving ground where new talent is discovered, futures are shaped, and the next generation of festival headliners begins their ascent.

 Last year’s Trailblazer alumni, Dead Zebras, Beggars Bliss, and a special shout to Wailing Banshee, proved exactly what this platform can do. They didn’t just perform; they ignited Call of the Wild. Now it’s your turn.

The Trailblazer Experience

Trailblazer isn’t just a competition, it’s a full‑scale, high‑impact artist development event designed to elevate bands who are ready for the next step.

 Every shortlisted band performs on the Corporation Main Stage, one of the UK’s most iconic rock venues, with full professional production, a top‑tier backline provided by Upstaged, Corporation, and Blackstar Amplification, and the kind of technical support usually reserved for touring artists.

 Throughout the event, bands receive unbiased mentorship from the Upstaged Director team, real industry guidance, real conversations, real development. Add in pro photography, media coverage, and the chance to perform directly in front of festival decision‑makers, and Trailblazer becomes a launchpad with serious firepower.

The Opportunities Waiting for You

Trailblazer 2027 is all about opening doors. It’s about giving emerging artists the platform, support, and visibility they deserve — and creating real pathways into the festival world. This year’s opportunities are the most exciting we’ve ever offered, designed to help bands grow, connect, and shine on a national stage.

 The Overall Winner will step onto the Kilmister Stage at Call of the Wild on Fri 28 May 2027 with a paid opening slot, a £1000 merch package, a professional photo shoot with Mark Ellis, continued mentorship from the Upstaged Director team, and a featured festival interview.

 The Runner‑Up also receives a paid performance slot, opening the Southall Lawless Stage, along with ongoing guidance from our Director team to help shape their next steps.

 And with up to six additional bands earning places on the Trailblazer Stage across the festival weekend, there are more opportunities than ever to be part of Call of the Wild 2027. Even bands who don’t progress to the festival will still receive five guest weekend tickets, including camping and parking — because Trailblazer is about community, celebration, and supporting every artist who steps onto that stage.

Once You Hit Call of the Wild

Bands who make it to the festival get a minimum 30‑minute set, full weekend passes, pro backline, tech support, media access, interviews, photography, and direct contact with industry insiders.

 Most importantly, you gain the chance to climb the Upstaged ladder, upgrade stages the following year, or join other Upstaged events. Trailblazer is just the beginning.

Save the Date, And Join the Wolfpack

Trailblazer 2027 applications open soon, and demand is already sky‑high. Headliners will be announced shortly, but fans can lock in their weekend now:

• £10 Weekend Tickets are on sale now
•  Day Tickets drop when headliners are revealed
•  The first 100 ticket holders join the Wolfpack Saturday Pre‑Party — DJ, shots, and full Wolfpack energy

 Hotels in Sheffield are still cheap, book early before the rush hits.

 Bands: This Is Your Call to Action

If your band is hungry, ambitious, and ready to step into the spotlight, Trailblazer 2027 is your moment. The stage is set. The amps are warmed. The Wolfpack is waiting.

 Are you ready to claim your place?