Unsigned artists can enter NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Contest, Jan. 12-Feb. 2

PRESS RELEASE:

True to its spirit of music discovery, NPR Music is kicking off 2016 with an invite to unsigned artists of all genres: Show them why you should perform in NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concert series. The winner will secure a spot at the iconic performance space and a U.S. tour with NPR Music.

Bands and musicians from across Western North Carolina can submit original video entries to the NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Contest Jan. 12-Feb. 2, 2016 at npr.org/tinydeskcontest (see rules for entry).

A panel of musicians from the Tiny Desk roster – Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys and The Arcs, Lucius ladies Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig, and soul artist Son Little – will join Boilen and All Songs Considered co-host Robin Hilton in selecting one Contest winner, to be announced in March 2016. Throughout the three-week submission period and afterwards, NPR Music will also feature select video entries on the Contest Tumblr, which already includes highlights from the 2015 Contest.

WNC musicians interested in entering NPR Music’s 2016 Tiny Desk Contest must play one original song at a desk (any desk – get creative), upload a video of the performance to YouTube and submit with the entry form at npr.org/tinydeskcontest. NPR Music welcomes music from all genres and, and 2015 entrants are encouraged to participate again this round with new material.

NPR Music has created a bigger prize package for the 2016 Contest winner, which includes a four-part event tour.

The Tiny Desk Contest was inspired by NPR Music’s desire to help fans find music they love and support artists throughout their careers. During its inaugural run in spring 2015, the challenge received entries from nearly 6,000 music makers across all 50 states.

NPR Music collaborates with NPR’s news magazines, WCQS and other public radio member stations, and the passionate NPR community to celebrate great music in every genre.