The Hub announces songwriting competition winner

The Hub at St Mary's has announced Rory Black as the winner of its first Songwriting Competition. 

At just 17, Rory has been gigging locally while studying Music Production and Performance.

The multi-instrumentalist played everything apart from bass on his winning track ‘Who Would I Be’ and is now producing all his own music.

The venue said of Rory's music: "With storytelling vibes from Sam Cooke and a sprinkle of John Mayer blues, his sound is classic yet fresh.

The Hub partnered with music industry legend Guy Chambers for ‘The Hub Songwriting Prize 2026’.

The two-time Ivor Novello and Brit Award-winning songwriter behind global hits including Robbie Williams Angels and Let Me Entertain You and Kylie Minogues Can’t Get You Out of My Head personally mentored all five selected finalists in an exclusive workshop.

As the grand prize winner, Rory performed Angels live onstage with Chambers during his evening show at The Hub and also received £200 cash.

The competition was open to songwriters under the age of 30 from Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and District, Cannock, Rugeley and Tamworth.

In addition to Rory, other finalists, Christie Reeves, Cloudy Galvez, Holly Rolfe and Sam Cooke will also benefit from performance opportunities at The Hub throughout 2026.

Guy Chambers described Black's song on social media as "pretty much perfect", adding "I don't come across this level of talent very often... he plays guitar beautifully and sings like a bird."

The Hub creative director Anthony Evans said: "Many congratulations to all five of our finalists who are all super-talented musicians.

"At a time when arts organisations are facing unprecedented challenges, we’re proving that venues like The Hub can create genuinely transformative opportunities for young people."

Pictured: Rory Black and Guy Chambers