Greene King Pubs has appointed Sam Ryder as its ‘head of gigs’ as part of a live music campaign.
As part of the role, Ryder will surprise customers at one Greene King pub for a one-off headline performance. He will be among nearly 800 acts playing in pubs across the UK all on one day (Friday, August 8).
A Greene King Pubs survey found that 40% missed out on live music last year due to high ticket prices. In addition, more than a third remain unaware of live music events in their local area.
The pubs chain is launching Greene King Untapped, a nationwide search sponsored by Jack Daniel's and Coca-Cola for grassroots talent.
Greene King Untapped’s winner will win a performance slot at the Pub In The Park 2026 festival, along with a £10,000 cash prize and a recording session at Metropolis Studios.
Sam Ryder said: "Playing in pubs and smaller venues was where it all started for me, with intimate venues, borrowed PA systems and a handful of pub-goers who might become fans. Grassroots music is at the heartbeat of the scene and those early gigs shaped who I am as an artist. These spaces allow live music to be an experience available to everyone, that’s why they’re so important, and I’m stoked to be a part of the team helping to keep that alive!”
Pubs have long been the heartland of grassroots music
Zoe Bowley
Greene King Untapped is part of Live at Your Local, where 870 pubs will be hosting music-themed events across the UK this summer.
To further support grassroots music, Greene King has teamed up with Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola to support the Music Venue Trust. For every Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola purchased, 10p will be donated to the Trust, funding community projects and initiatives that nurture emerging talent across the country.
Zoe Bowley, managing director at Greene King Pubs, said: “Through this campaign, in partnership with Sam, we’re committed to broadening and maintaining access to free live music, and giving new artists a real chance to shine. Pubs have long been the heartland of grassroots music, a place where emerging talent takes root, stars are born, and communities come together. It’s where British people do what they do best: connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories.”
