_{By Mike Romero
Photo by Molly McCoy}

Ooh baby. It’s that time again. For the last 20 years, Velour’s Battle of the Bands has been the place for bands to cut their teeth, win new fans, and place their name in an impressive local music hall of fame. Previous winners include legacy acts like Imagine Dragons and Neon Trees, and newer heavy hitters like The Aces, The Backseat Lovers, Cardinal Bloom, and more.

You don’t need to be a well-established group to have a shot at winning. Year after year we see bands of all genres and experience levels surprise us in new and interesting ways.

This year’s Velour Sumer Battle of the Bands will take place Monday, June 22, to Saturday, June 27. Interested bands can apply now through May 22nd at 11:59 PM. Bands that played in the Winter Battle of the Bands are not eligible to compete due to Velour’s standing policy of not allowing bands to compete in consecutive battles. Booking preference will be given to early submissions. Prospective competitors can see the full list of rules and apply here.

While you’re submitting, make sure to listen to “Willow” by Dogpaw – the winners of the Velour Winter 2025 Battle of the Bands.