While we might have all heard the occasional out-of-tune guitar or over-ambitious high note, busking is generally one of the most accessible ways to experience emerging new talent. Musician Ed Sheeran famously started his career as a busker, as did the likes of Sheryl Crow, Janis Joplin and Tracy Chapman. Plus, comedians Robin Williams and Steve Martin also cut their teeth performing in the street.
So, in order to celebrate the such a diverse range musicians and entertainers, towns and cities across the country will joining together for the first ever National Busking Day.
Held on Saturday July 18, London's Trafalgar Square will be at the heart of the nationwide festival but shopping centres, high streets, parks and railway stations up and down the UK will provide the stage for dancers, street artists, musicians, magicians and more.
Along with the capital, National Busking Day locations include Belfast, Brighton, Bristol, Canterbury, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Exeter, Gateshead, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Margate, Newcastle and York.
In Birmingham, around half a dozen street entertainers – curated by Birmingham City Centre Management – will be taking turns to perform on the High Street, near Pavilions Shopping Centre and in Birmingham New Street Station.
Still, the spontaneous nature of busking means that crowd reactions can decide how long and artist performs means and, if the vibe is right, you could witness some great jams. You'll just have to turn up to find out!
Although the line-up has not been confirmed, performers such as Halesowen's Esther Turner should give you an idea of what to expect:
National Busking Day, July 18, 11am-6pm, near Pavilions Shopping Centre and New Street Station. Visit the website for more information.
Looking for more events? Here are ten of the best things you could be getting up to in Birmingham this week.