Hackensack Battle of the Bands – Official Rules & Regulations
1. Event Overview
The Hackensack Battle of the Bands is a one-day, outdoor live music competition designed to showcase emerging talent and drive foot traffic to Downtown Hackensack.
- Format: One-day competition
- Estimated participants: 12 bands
- Location: Two outdoor stages in Downtown Hackensack
- Hosted by: Main Street Business Alliance
2. Eligibility
- All performers must be 18 years of age or older.
- At least one band member must reside in Bergen County, NJ.
- Bands signed to major national recording labels are not eligible.
- Bands must have a minimum of three members.
- Both original songs and covers are permitted.
3. Application Requirements
To be considered, bands must submit a completed application form, a link to one live performance video (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.), and basic band information with contact details.
- Applications without a video will not be reviewed.
- Entry Fee: $100 per band
- Application Deadline: June 10
- Finalists will be selected by the event organizers.
4. Performance Rules
- Each band will perform a maximum 12-minute set.
- All performances must be live.
- Backing tracks are discouraged and may not replace live instruments.
- Bands may perform any number of songs within the time limit.
- Exceeding time limits may result in scoring deductions.
5. Stage Logistics
- A shared drum kit will be provided.
- Bands must bring their own instruments and gear.
- Bands are responsible for the safety and setup of their equipment.
- Quick changeovers are required between sets.
6. Judging & Scoring
Winners will be determined using a hybrid model that includes a panel of judges and an audience engagement component. Judging criteria include musicianship and technical skill, stage presence and professionalism, audience engagement, originality and creativity, and overall performance quality.
- Judges are instructed to avoid genre bias and score fairly across styles.
- All judging decisions are final.
7. Prizes
- 1st Place: $2,500 + guaranteed paid performance at Hackensacktoberfest
- 2nd Place: $1,000
- 3rd Place: $500
8. Conduct & Disqualification
- Performances must be appropriate for a public, community event.
- Excessive profanity, explicit lyrics, or offensive behavior may result in point deductions or disqualification.
- Illegal substance use will result in immediate disqualification.
- Bands must act professionally and respectfully toward staff, judges, and other performers.
9. Check-In Requirements
- Bands must arrive at least one hour prior to their scheduled performance time.
- Bands not ready to perform when called may be disqualified.
- Only registered band members may perform on stage.
10. Media Release & Rights
By participating, all bands agree that the event organizers may use the band name, images, audio, and video recordings for promotional purposes.
- No compensation or royalties will be provided for such use.
11. Liability
- Bands are responsible for their own equipment and personal property.
- The event organizers are not liable for loss, theft, or damage.
- Participants agree to comply with all safety requirements and event staff instructions.
12. Organizer Rights
The Main Street Business Alliance reserves the right to accept or reject any application, adjust event logistics as needed, and enforce all rules to determine final outcomes.
