Battle of the Bands
April 23-24
summercelebration.com, (231) 722-6520

Only a true rock star can achieve the feat of performing in the limelight in front of thousands of fans. This spring, true rock stars will be unveiled as bands compete for a Summer Celebration main stage performance and a recording studio package.

The third annual Battle of the Bands -- hosted by new downtown Muskegon establishment, Club Envy (441 W. Western Avenue) - provides artists across a broad musical spectrum to open for national acts on the main stages during Summer Celebration.

Tanya Gonzalez, from Muskegon Events, says the new venue was an excellent choice.

"They contacted us and said, ‘We would like to work with downtown events.' It makes sense: they have all the sound equipment already."

There will be three judges: one musician, one radio personality, and a representative from River City Music. Each will have a sheet based on presentation and musicianship.

The majority of tickets sold are for the national acts; however, the point of hosting this competition is to promote local Michigan music where it's needed.

"[It's] the local bands bring that local flavor, which the festival needs," Gonzalez said. "People are looking for good music, so why not showcase local bands."

The bands will gather for competition in April; beginning on the 23rd with country bands at 6 p.m., and concluding on the 24th, from noon to midnight, with rock and open genres. Prizes are awarded for first through third bands in each category. The winners receive contracted performance as opener for a 2010 headliner and a four-hour recording studio package from River City Music Studios.

For bands interested, send an entry packet to the Muskegon Summer Celebration offices at 587 W. Western, Muskegon, MI 49440 by 5p.m. on March 26, 2010. Entry packets must include the following: A CD of the music the band plans to perform, a digital band photo delivered as a jpg file, a digital file of the band's bio and a completed application with the $25 fee.