What You Missed at GRS Live This September

GRS Live showcases the best local and upcoming talent in and around Birmingham. It's an opportunity for solo artists or groups to perform with a live band and newly formed bands to showcase their original music in front of a live audience in safe a space. Whether performers are experimenting with a new sound or style or wanting to build confidence ahead of a big performance, GRS Live is the perfect event to share their new music.

Hayden Lloyd

Hayden Lloyd, an award winning, vibrant guitarist and singer/songwriter hailing from Bath and now thriving in Birmingham, UK, crafts a captivating fusion of blues, rock, and funk with soulful nuances and diverse influences, culminating in his distinct captive sound.

With the release of his debut EP, "In My Soul," in 2022, Hayden Lloyd made a resounding entrance into the music scene, followed by a notable single release alongside E.L.B, his former band. His early works garnered attention from radio stations, where he's been featured and interviewed on platforms such as Ollie Lewis' Saturday Morning Show on Bath Radio and Luke Knight's Friday night show on BBC Radio Somerset (MW and DAB).

His latest releases have ignited a buzz among music enthusiasts, earning rave reviews from publications like TJPL News who hailed him as a "Birmingham-based blues-rock sensation". A strong 2024 has culminated in Hayden winning the Orpheus Global Independent Music Award for ‘Best Indie Rock Act’ further solidifying Hayden Lloyd's place in the contemporary music landscape.

Aisha Kigs

East Cardiff-born Aisha Kigs is a powerhouse singer-songwriter blending R&B, Pop, AfroPop and Funk with t h e vibrancy of her Swahili heritage. Inspired by icons like Aretha Franklin, Kelis, and Janelle Monáe, Kigs delivers soulful vocals, sing-rap flair, and a bold crossover sound.

With BBC Introducing live shows, CLASH reviews, and sold-out gigs under her belt, she's fast becoming one of the UK's most exciting new voices in t h e MOBO and queer music scenes. Kigs has already made waves with BBC Introducing London & Horizons, Big Love Festival, Breacon Jazz Festival and a sold-out EP launch at the Wales Millennium Centre. Singles "Don't Wanna Be Friends" and "Unattainable" earned BBC Radio Wales A- List support for 5 weeks, while CLASH Magazine and Buzz spotlighted her as a rising artist to watch.

Stella

Out of a dark and dingy bedroom in the depths of the Black Country, Stella emerged as a fearless, rule-breaking artist. More than just a name, Stella is a movement—celebrating freedom, empowerment, and individuality through music that uplifts and connects. Her new single Move My Feet (released July 11, 2025) is a shimmering, feel-good electropop anthem marking a bold new chapter. Stella creates music for misfits, dreamers, and fighters. With sultry vocals, unforgettable melodies, and a powerful presence in Birmingham’s music scene, she’s here to inspire, provoke thought, and spread joy.

So, what are you waiting for? Join the Stella movement.

King Opio

King Opio a.k.a Jahbless K.S.A is a Ghanaian Afro-Pop, Afro-Beat, Dancehall and Hip-hop musician, born Kwadjo Shaw Amok, from Konongo Dwease in Gahana’s Ashanti region. Known for his music career, he was born in 1987 and is signed to Monday Five Records (MFR). He has released several singles and albums and his music can be found on streaming platforms like Apple Music, Spotify and Deezer.

Miss ANJ

Miss ANJ (proncounced An-jay), an emerging songwriter and performing artist, based in the UK. Born in Rotterdam to Indo-Caribbean parents, ANJ’s childhood was a blend of contrasts. On one side was a household shadowed by domestic violence and an environment of pervasive racism; on the other, a vibrant family culture of live-band medleys, DJ mashups, and a kitchen rich with flavours from Africa, Asia and the Indigenous Caribbean. By eight, ANJ felt a magnetic pull towards music. However, growing up in a rural setting offered few opportunities to cultivate her talent. After completing her studies, she moved to Paris to pursue her performing dream as a full-time dancer.

While making her mark on stages and teaching classes, she connected with French-Caribbean artists, where she finally learned to produce music. In 2018, her debut single Won’t Forget soared to No. 2 on the Suriname charts, establishing her as a name to watch. Since then, she has built an impressive discography, including a seven-piece EP “LIGHT UP”, filled with chart-topping singles across the Caribbean along with her latest single ‘Rimshot’.

With her early influences being Diana King, Lauryn Hill, Sean Paul, Brick & Lace, Rupee and more, her sound is diverse and empowering. Along with her magnetic stage presence, she’s captivated audiences of up to 7,000 across Europe and the Caribbean, including at festivals in the Netherlands, France, Spain, Germany, and the UK. Her ultimate dream is to share the stage with artists such as those who inspire her. Coupled with a humanitarian heart, is what makes Miss ANJ an emblem, rising in the new era of Reggae/Caribbean music. To stay updated on all her music and latest releases, follow her on all platforms using her tag "MissAnjMusic.