The New Orleans Multicultural Tourism Network (NOMTN) and the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation (NOTMC) aim to give a voice to local musical talent by creating the first-of-its-kind New Orleans Music Showcase for the 25th Anniversary ESSENCE Festival. The showcase will reach a peak at the ESSENCE Festival NOLA Media Day on Thursday, May 30, 2019, at the New Orleans Jazz Market. The winner of the showcase will perform at ESSENCE Fest.

Local musicians have the opportunity to compete online and on-stage for the chance to win a slot performing at the 2019 ESSENCE Festival taking place from July 5-7. This pre-Festival event helps to empower the broader music industry discussion in New Orleans and expand opportunities within the region.

“New Orleans musicians have always been the backbone of the culture, dating back to Congo Square,” said Essence Banks, Executive Director of NOMTN. “We must put our local talent in the spotlight and the contributions they have made to the City and the world. It couldn’t be more befitting than to do this now during the 25th Anniversary of the ESSENCE Festival,” Banks said. Organizers say the heavy focus right now is on getting submissions from quality musicians so there can be a robust competition.

“With more visitors predicted to be in the city than ever before, the goal is to honor NOLA’s top local talent, engage festival enthusiasts, and generate excitement,” said Mark Romig, President/CEO of NOTMC. “New Orleans wouldn’t be New Orleans without our musicians,” he said.

Submissions for the New Orleans Music Showcase began April 2, 2019. For more information on complete contest rules, eligibility, and submissions, visit here.