The Road to Nightfall series returns this April, offering Chattanooga's rising music stars a chance to compete for a headlining spot at the Nightfall Concert Series on May 16, 2025.
Now in its 14th year, this annual competition celebrates local talent and will take place over three weekends—April 3, 4, 5, 10, and 11—with the final round on April 19. One winner from each preliminary night will advance to the final competition.
Prospective performers can apply here. The application deadline is Friday, March 7th at 11:59 p.m.
The Road to Nightfall competition fosters local artistry by providing musicians with a platform to connect with their peers, gain exposure, and engage with industry professionals.
It has become an essential event for both artists and fans in Chattanooga.
Jonathan Susman, with Gig City Productions, has been coordinating the event alongside Chattanooga Presents.
"Each year, both audiences and judges are impressed by the talent that takes the stage, but the exciting thing for me is to see the camaraderie and sense of community that is shared from bands meeting each other and sharing audiences with their peers," Susman says.
The grand prize includes a headlining spot at Nightfall, a performance at Highland Park Porchfest, a single produced at Deadbird Studios by the Songbird Foundation, a two-song live session at Yellow Racket Records, and $25 gift cards for each band member.
For more information on how to participate, attend, or support the event, visit www.gigcitypro.com/roadtonightfall.