Hard Rock Cafe, Coca-Cola Launch Hard Rock Rising Music Contest for New Talent
The global competition spans 34 countries and 64 Hard Rock Cafe locations, with a grand prize package including US$10,000 in cash and a recording session.
HOLLYWOOD, Florida — Hard Rock Cafe and Coca-Cola on Aug 6, 2026 launched Hard Rock Rising, a music competition spanning 34 countries and 64 Hard Rock Cafe locations that aims to give emerging artists a career-launching stage.
The contest is open to singer-songwriters, bands and DJs. Entries close on Aug 18, and each submission must include two original songs.
Live competition rounds will be held on Sept 2, 9, 16 and 23 at participating Cafe locations. Local fan voting will decide which artists advance from one round to the next, after which the Coke Studio team will select the grand prize winner. The global winner will be announced on Oct 5.
The grand prize includes a recording session package, US$10,000 in cash, an opportunity to perform at Hard Rock Orlando and other rewards.
"Hard Rock Cafe has always brought people together through the power of music with local artist residencies, open mic events, 'Battle of the Bands' competitions and pop culture memorabilia collections," said Eric Martino, President of Hard Rock Cafe and Retail at Hard Rock International.
"Hard Rock Rising is a continuation of that mission to empower new talent to perform their original work. Together with Coca-Cola, we are proud to provide a platform for musicians to showcase their talent, be heard and be celebrated in their communities, and internationally for the grand prize winner."
The Coke Studio team is led by multi-platinum, GRAMMY- and Juno-nominated executive producer Rob Rettberg.
"This collaboration leverages Hard Rock's broad reach and iconic stages, alongside Coke Studio's A&R expertise to develop a new generation of recording artists," Rettberg said.
Hard Rock Cafe is also rolling out limited-time menu offerings featuring Coca-Cola-based cocktails, along with exclusive merchandise available at Rock Shops and shop.hardrock.com.
To extend the celebration of music and self-expression beyond the stage, Hard Rock has partnered with Cult of Individuality, a streetwear brand known for its music culture influences. The two brands will release an exclusive Hard Rock Rising T-shirt and a co-branded apparel collection.
Details on entry, contest rules and the list of participating Cafe locations are available at cafe.hardrock.com/hard-rock-rising.
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