Hard Rock Rising: global battle of the bands stops in London

Hard Rock International has called on aspiring musicians from around the globe to rock out for the opportunity of a lifetime through this year’s Hard Rock Rising – the most far-reaching battle of the bands competition in the world. As Hard Rock continues its commitment to emerging artists, Hard Rock Rising will place the Grand Prize winner on the fast-track to global stardom as they embark on a World Tour in six renowned cities arranged by Hard Rock International – including a spot on the bill at the Hard Rock Calling festival in London, with additional dates at Hard Rock Cafes in cities such as Sydney, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Chicago and Honolulu, make an album and music video through Hard Rock Records, and receive new music equipment and gear valued at £7,000.

Hard Rock Cafe’s Facebook fans from around the world have spoken – narrowing down over 12,000 bands to its top contenders – and only a select few will move on to the next round and perform live at participating cafes. Through multiple live battle events at Hard Rock Cafe London beginning on Monday 11^th March, 2013, the undiscovered talents of London will vie for the top spot to represent the city in Hard Rock Rising’s global competition. Performances by Crystal X, Carnaby, Tequilla Mockingbird, The Nevertones, Echo Park, Wild Honey, Alexa De Strange, The Kut  and the highly anticipated wild card entry, Snap Out, have been judged by a panel of local industry experts that include James Curran (Absolute Radio), Jemma Downey and Dave Bradley (Live Nation) and James Walsh (Starsailor) plus very special guest judge Phil Manzanera of Roxy Music for the grand final on 27^th March .

The final round will be held on 27^th March 2013, and will feature the preliminary winners Alexa De Strange, The Carnabys and Tequilla Mockingbird! One band will then be selected to represent London as they compete against ninety-five other Hard Rock Cafe winners from around the world.

Fan voting on participating Hard Rock Facebook pages will narrow down the ninety-six local winners to the top twenty-five bands. Once determined, an esteemed panel of celebrity judges and music industry professionals will select the Grand Prize winner. Two runner-up bands will each receive new music equipment and gear valued at £7,000. 

The editorial unit

Hard Rock Rising takes place at Hard Rock Cafe, 150 Old Park Lane, London on 27^th March 2013. Entry £3 per person (for Richard House Hospice). Doors 7pm, for further information and a list of participating locations, visit here.