SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — February XX, 2025 — The legendary Vans Warped Tour is back this summer and with it, Ernie Ball is thrilled to announce the return of the Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands. A proven launchpad for emerging artists, this renewed competition is offering musical artists everywhere the incredible opportunity to perform on the main stage at Vans Warped Tour’s three stops in 2025. Over $100,000 in prizes are up for grabs, including the opportunity for a record deal with EDGEOUT Records/Universal Music Group.
Registration for the competition opens today and runs until May 1, 2025. To sign up, bands currently not signed to a record label can create a profile, upload a video of their original music, and rally support from their fans.
Ultimately, one band will be selected to perform on the main stage of the Vans Warped Tour at each festival date:
- Washington, DC: June 14 & June 15
- Long Beach, CA: July 26 & July 27
- Orlando, FL: November 15 & November 16
Over $100,000 in Prizes
In addition to these six main-stage performances, the 2025 Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands is raising the bar with an incredible prize pool, including:
- High-end guitar and bass gear from Ernie Ball, Ernie Ball Music Man, Sterling By Music Man, Marshall, Orange, Revv, Galien Krueger, and BOSS
- Top-tier drum equipment from SJC, Gibraltar, Zildjian, Vic Firth, Remo, and Humes & Berg
- Keyboard equipment from Roland and Korg
- Live and Studio equipment from Universal Audio, Electrovoice, Mackie, and Sennheiser
- A $1,000 Vans gift card for each main stage performer
- A feature in an episode of the Ernie Ball's Big Sound
- And for one Grand Prize Winner, the chance at a record deal with EDGEOUT Records/Universal Music Group
A Legacy of Launching Careers
Since its inception, the Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands has been a game-changer for unsigned bands, offering unparalleled opportunities for exposure and growth. It's shaped the careers of countless musicians, many of whom have gone on to achieve global success like:
- James Valentine: Prior to becoming the guitarist for the multi-platinum band Maroon 5, James competed in the Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands with a previous project called Square (members of Reel Big Fish, Maxeen, and more). After winning, he moved to Los Angeles where he started Maroon 5.
- PVRIS: This alt-pop powerhouse first made waves through the competition, helping them secure their place as a force in the music industry.
- Nothing More: This Grammy-nominated progressive rock band had a significant boost from the competition, helping them carve out a strong following in the alternative rock scene.
- Mayday Parade: Before becoming a Warped staple, Mayday Parade leveraged the platform to gain visibility and attract a dedicated fan base.
This rich history is a testament to the competition’s transformative impact, helping shape the sound of new up-and-coming music.
How to Enter
Think your band has what it takes? Submissions are now open at battleofthebands.com and will run through May 1. A panel of industry pros will judge entries based on technique, creativity, originality, and entertainment value—but fan support matters too! Rally your crew, spread the word, and let the votes roll in.
Continuing a Proud Tradition
The Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands isn't just a competition—it’s a legacy. With over 20 years of history, its revival is set to empower unsigned artists to showcase their talents to the world. The relaunch of the competition marks a new chapter in its story, one about the future of music and the potential to discover the next generation of iconic artists.
For more information or to register, visit www.battleofthebands.com
For more information on Ernie Ball, visit www.ernieball.com and www.music-man.com.
