Local acts get chance to play Rochdale Feel Good Festival

The Jackson Kay Band played the main stage last year

Rochdale Feel Good – Battle of the Bands 2017 is now open for entries, with organisers Rochdale Borough Council looking for local bands or solo artists. First prize is a main stage slot on Saturday, and for the first time ever - the act in second place will be awarded a slot on the main stage on the Friday evening.

All hopefuls need to do to stand a chance of bagging a 25-minute set in front of the crowds is email a link to a Youtube video of them playing live, along with a short biography to events@rochdale.gov.uk (write ‘Battle of the Bands’ in the subject box.)

After the closing date, submissions will be added to the festival’s Facebook page, before the top six who get the most ‘likes’ go forward to a judging panel who will decide on who performs on the main stage.

Solo artists must live in the borough, and bands must have at least 50 per cent of their members living in the borough. Entries must be received by the closing date of 22 May.

Ben Boothman, one of the judges and owner of main stage sponsor The Flying Horse Hotel, said: “Interest in this competition gets bigger each year and for the first time we have the main stage on Friday evening as well as Saturday, meaning two local bands will get the experience of playing in front of the crowds.

"We’ve had some superb local acts win this competition and last year The Jackson Kay Band were a great example, playing covers as well as their own material and getting everyone dancing. It’s a perfect opportunity for local musicians to raise their profile and all genres and styles of music can enter.”

Another judge, former Director of Performing Arts, Councillor Janet Emsley, cabinet member for culture, health and wellbeing at Rochdale Borough Council, added: “Last year I was very impressed by the quality of acts that entered the competition. Playing our festival with all the publicity that comes with it is a prize that could kick start a professional music career. We’re expecting another quality field this year.”

Rochdale Feel Good Festival returns on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 August.