2026 Iowa Rocks Talent Contest Announced

Statewide musical talent search for youth 21 and under.
 

(Arnolds Park) -The Iowa Rock 'n Roll Music Association announced that enrollment starts June 15th for the 2026 Iowa Rocks Talent Contest.

 

According to Ted Poulsen, President of the Board of the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association, “We are proud to present the 12th annual “Iowa Rocks Talent” competition. This is a statewide competition for Iowa’s young musicians to showcase the music they love and to compete for a grand prize of recording time at a major Iowa recording studio.” Poulsen continued, “The first round of competition will be conducted virtually through video submission on our website for their musical presentations. We also want to thank all our sponsors for helping us bring this opportunity to the young people of Iowa.” Sponsors are Cutty's Okoboji Resort Club, Lewis Family Drug, Catamount Recording, Northwest Bank Wealth Management, John Walachy Music Legacy, Clay County Fair and RBC Wealth Management.
 

Applicants should go to the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Associations’ website at www.iowarocknroll.com/iowarockstalent.  Within that link is an application form and a place to upload two YouTube video links. The deadline for all applications is 11:59 pm, Wednesday, July 31.
 

There are two divisions of competition, individual artist or band (2 or more members). Participants will be chosen to compete in the Finals on Sept. 5, 2026 at Pearson Lakes Art Center in Okoboji, IA. Champions will receive a prize package valued at $5,000, including professional studio recording time and the opportunity to open for the Iowa Rock 'n Roll Induction Concert in the Roof Garden Ballroom on Sept. 6.

 

Media Contact:  Ted Poulsen 
Email: tedpoulsen@iowarocknroll.com
 

 

The Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association exists to preserve the legacy of rock ‘n roll music in Iowa by honoring achievements, educating youth, and inspiring artists. Established in 1997, it is a 501(c)(3) non- profit statewide organization.