Do you have what it takes to be the next Nashville North Star?

May 25, 2016

Calgary – The Calgary Stampede kicks off its annual search for the hottest new talent in country music with Nashville North Star presented by Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey.

The Nashville North Star competition gives artists from across the province a chance to showcase their musical talent on the Nashville North stage during The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, July 8-17.

“Contestants get the chance to play in one of the most iconic venues at the Calgary Stampede in front of some of the most passionate country music fans,” says Samara Lastiwka, programming production manager. “The winner gets the chance of a lifetime to record, perform and experience the life of a country star, which will set the foundation for their music career.”

To participate in the Nashville North Star competition, visit www.calgarystampede.com/nnstar. Starting Monday, May 30, upload a video of yourself or your band performing your favourite country music cover song. The deadline for video submission is Monday, June 20 at 5 p.m. and online voting will take place through Facebook for two days on June 21 and 22. The competitor who earns the most online votes is automatically entered into the top 10. The remaining nine slots are chosen by a panel of industry judges.

The top 10 will be announced on Friday, June 24 live on Country 105. Contestants will compete in the semi-finals at Nashville North on Saturday, July 9 in front of a live audience. The top six will advance to the final round on Monday, July 11 where the new Nashville North Star winner will be chosen.

The Nashville North Star winner will receive:

-A trip to the 2016 Canadian Country Music Awards in London, Ont. including hotel, airfare and a Country Music Week delegate pass

Performance at Nashville North on Saturday, July 16
Recording session at Music Centre Canada
Professional song writing session with country music artist, Jake Mathews
Professional photography session
A record release to country radio stations across Canada provided by Royalty Records
Showcase opportunity at 2016 Royalty Records party at Canadian Country Music Week
$2,500 cash

A cash prize of $1,000 will go to the runner up and $500 to the third place winner.

About the Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together; we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and promotes western heritage and values. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.

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