Local acts get chance to play Rochdale Feel Good Festival

Photo: SKW Events

Battle of the Bands winners, Scuttlers performed at last year's Feel Good Festival

Local bands or solo artists can bag themselves a spot playing in front of thousands of people as this year’s Rochdale Feel Good – Battle of the Bands opens for entries.

The winners will be awarded a coveted 25-minute main stage slot on Saturday 10 August, playing alongside headliners The Coral, The Hoosiers and many more.

All hopefuls need to do 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 line).

Solo artists must live in the borough of Rochdale, and bands must have at least 50 per cent of their members living in the borough. Entrants must also be available on 10 August. Entries must be received by the closing date of 17 May.

Shortly 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.

Last year Middleton indie/rock four piece ‘Scuttlers’ won the competition and enjoyed a glorious reception, supporting Feeder and Cast. 

Ben Boothman, one of the judges and owner of main stage sponsor The Flying Horse Hotel said: “We’re seeing more and more emerging acts wanting to play Rochdale Feel Good Festival and over the years I’m privileged that I’ve been able to play a role in giving local acts a step up. Scuttlers were amazing last time around and got one of the best responses we’ve seen. The competition is also a chance for local musicians to raise their profile and all genres and styles of music can enter, solo artists as well as bands. The crowds always come out and support local talent. If you think you’d go down a storm on our main stage we want to hear from you now.”

Rochdale Feel Good Festival returns on Saturday 10 August with top class entertainment, family activities, food and culture. There will be live music across indoor venues, a main stage against the backdrop of the town hall sponsored by The Flying Horse Hotel, plus quality food and drink.