Hard Rock Rising launches global music competition across 34 countries

Hard Rock Cafe has launched Hard Rock Rising, a global music competition designed to discover emerging musical talent. The program spans 34 countries and includes 64 participating Hard Rock Cafe locations worldwide.

Bands, soloists, DJs, and singer-songwriters can apply by August 18 by submitting two original songs. The competition features local rounds where audiences help select winners, who then advance to a global stage. In locations such as Santiago, Chile, and Copenhagen, Denmark, local winners will compete for prizes including cash and performance opportunities.

In collaboration with Coke Studio, the global winner will receive a prize package featuring $10,000, a professional recording session in Los Angeles, and a performance at Hard Rock Live in Orlando. The final selection will be conducted by the Coke Studio team, led by executive producer Rob Rettberg. The initiative also includes a collaboration with the streetwear brand Cult of Individuality for limited-edition merchandise.