Hard Rock Rising Brings Global Music Competition to NOLA
New Orleans musicians are getting a chance to take their talent from Canal Street to the global stage.
Hard Rock Cafe New Orleans and Coca-Cola are joining forces for Hard Rock Rising, a live competition open to singer-songwriters, bands, and DJs. Local artists will perform across four rounds in September, with fans voting to help determine who advances.
Artist submissions are open through August 18. The New Orleans competition rounds will take place on September 2, 9, 16, and 23, and the global winner will be announced on October 5.
How Hard Rock Rising Works
Hard Rock Cafe New Orleans will host up to nine acts during the four-round competition. Each artist must submit two original songs to enter.
During the live shows, audience members will vote in real time using a mobile app. Performers will be judged on musicianship, vocal talent, originality, stage presence, and fan support.
The New Orleans winner will receive a cash prize and the opportunity to perform a three-month paid residency at Hard Rock Cafe New Orleans.
That artist will also advance to the global round, where the Coke Studio team will review recorded performances from winners at 64 participating Hard Rock Cafes.
“Hard Rock Rising gives us the opportunity to showcase the incredible musical talent right here in New Orleans,” said Clifford Dexter of Hard Rock Cafe New Orleans. “This competition is a real opportunity for our local artists to get discovered on a global stage.”
What the Global Winner Receives
The grand prize winner will receive:
- A professional recording session at Coke Studio L.A. Live
- Flights and accommodations for the recording session
- Music distribution across major streaming platforms
- A performance at Hard Rock Orlando
- A two-night stay at Hard Rock Hotel Orlando
- Passes to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure
- A $10,000 cash prize
- Marshall amplifiers and accessories
The Coke Studio team is led by multi-platinum, GRAMMY- and Juno-nominated executive producer Rob Rettberg.
“This partnership taps into Hard Rock’s unparalleled reach and iconic stages while leveraging Coke Studio’s production expertise to transform talented musicians into the next generation of recording artists,” Rettberg said.
A Limited-Time Menu for Music Fans
From August 17 through September 30, Hard Rock Cafe New Orleans will offer a limited-time menu created for fans attending the competition.
Shareable dishes include:
- Thai Peanut Brussels Sprouts
- BBQ Pulled Beef Sliders
- Lemon & Lime Black Pepper Wings
- Barbacoa Beef Queso
- Cheesecake Dip with pretzel bites and seasonal fruit
The drink menu will also feature cocktails and mocktails made with Coca-Cola products, including the Last Call Dragonrita, Orange Cream Soda, and Spiced Yuzu Soda.
Limited-Edition Hard Rock Rising Merchandise
Hard Rock is also partnering with streetwear brand Cult of Individuality on a limited-edition apparel collection.
Merchandise will be available beginning August 17 at select Rock Shops and through Hard Rock’s online store. The collection includes a campaign T-shirt featuring the names of all 34 participating countries, additional apparel, and a collectible pin.
Apply or Attend
Artists can apply through August 18 and must submit two original songs.
Fans can attend the New Orleans competition rounds on:
- September 2
- September 9
- September 16
- September 23
Whether you are competing or cheering from the crowd, Hard Rock Rising offers a chance to experience emerging New Orleans talent before the rest of the world hears it.
Visit the Hard Rock Rising website for submissions and official rules.