Battle of bands is a contest in which many bands, usually rock/guitar bands but often from a range of different styles, compete for the title of "best band". The winner is determined by a panel of judges, the general response of the audience, or a combination. The winning band usually receives a prize in addition to bragging rights. Prizes usually include cash, free recording time in a local recording studio, support or main slot at a local or large gig, a piece of new equipment, or a gift certificate. Traditionally, battles of bands are often held at live music events and forums (for example, the ).

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Historical incidents

The simultaneous release of albums and singles in 1995 sparked a media-fuelled "Battle of Britpop" between northern England's working-class Oasis and southern England's middle-class Blur. ^[1]

In popular culture

A Battle of the Bands event forms the climax of a number of films, including Bandslam , School of Rock , Freaky Friday, and Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey . The film Drumline puts its own spin on the convention, featuring a battle between marching bands.

In the Take That musical, Never Forget, the show centres around a tribute band working to win the Battle of the Tribute Bands .

More Recently

In August 2009, a UK company, , held the worlds first Silent Battle of the Bands, this Silent Gig took place in Cardiff Barfly and saw local talented artists compete for the attention of the audience. With only the singer's voice and a light tapping of drums audible to those entering, the evening was soon transformed when participants put on a set of wireless headphones and got the full effect of each bands musical talents.

References

1. Chris Roberts, Heavy Words Lightly Thrown: The Reason Behind Rhyme, Thorndike Press,2006 (ISBN 0-7862-8517-6)