OnlyFans, best known for providing sex workers a safe place to post NSFW content and earn a profit directly, rose to popularity in 2020. In early 2021, it announced a creative prize fund for emerging musical artists that are based in the UK, in an effort to expand its repertoire of creatives discovered on the platform. The fund was launched by CEO Tim Stokely as a way to support up-and-coming singers, songwriters, and musicians. 

The prize is worth a total of £80,000, which will then be split among four artists, each artist set to win £20,000. The winnings are to help artists with production costs, equipment and other expenses that come with starting a career in music. They will also have access to music industry professionals for mentorship. One of the judges of the competition, Don Stefflon told the Independent, “Music is an industry you have to work incredibly hard at anyway, and with live gigs off the table it’s been tougher than ever. My hope is this gives musicians inspiration or a channel to earn a wage. For the winners who will get the grant, I’m excited to see their possibilities in the industry and see the entries.” Due to the pandemic, the creative community has suffered, and OnlyFans is giving creatives the perfect chance to launch their work.

To enter the competition artists must submit a 90-second original song or musical performance, and introduction. Entries will be judged by celebrity hosts such as UK rapper Stefflon Don, Hot Chip member DJ Joe Goddard, and singer/actress Suki Waterhouse. The competition closed on April 13th, but the judges have yet to announce the winners.

Within the past year, OnlyFans has been getting recognition from celebrities such as Cardi B, Beyoncé, and Meg Thee Stallion. So we can expect great artists from this competition.

Photo via @stefflondon