Yet another TV music contest could be set to hit our screens, with Sony beginning work on a UK version of Canadian show The Launch.
The Launch is based on an idea conceived by Big Machine Records founder Scott Borchetta, who notably discovered pop superstar Taylor Swift.
Each episode sees five artists audition for the chance to release an original song crafted by renowned songwriters and producers.
A panel of guest mentors choose the two best candidates and help them shape the track to their abilities.
These artists then perform for a live audience, and the judges then decide whose version of the track should be ‘launched’, with viewers able to buy it immediately afterwards.
Big-name mentors that have taken part in the show include Shania Twain, Fergie, Boy George and OneRepublic frontman Ryan Tedder.
The Launch has achieved big ratings for Canadian broadcaster CTV, while featured songs have shot to the top of the iTunes charts.
Now the format is about to be launched around the world after it was picked up for global distribution by Sony Pictures Television.
Sony is already making moves to bring The Launch to this side of the pond, confirming its production label Electric Ray – whose credits include ITV2’s Bromans – is working on a UK version.
However, it’s early days yet, as the show has yet to be picked up by a British broadcaster.
Sarah Edwards, Sony’s Creative Director of Global Formats, said: “As soon as we saw it we knew it was the music talent show we had been looking for.
“It is a unique and authentic look into what it takes to be a successful performer and recording artist in today’s music business and we are confident that audiences around the world will embrace it.”
The Launch may face an uphill battle winning viewers over in the UK, where there’s no shortage of music talent contests on telly.
The X Factor and The Voice are still going (fairly) strong on ITV, which also has The Voice Kids and Britain’s Got Talent.
Meanwhile, BBC One recently launched All Together Now, which sees contestants try to convince a panel of 100 singers to join in with their performances.
The Beeb also recently piloted The Chart, a format which – as the name suggests – aims to create a chart for undiscovered talent.
