battle of the bands
youth edition

guitar city live

saturday | june 20

Guitar City Live returns to Raised Grain Brewing Company with a brand-new feature for 2026: the inaugural Battle of the Bands – Wisconsin Youth Edition.

Inspired by the work of Chad Smith—Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee—this year’s event supports the Chad Smith Foundation, which is dedicated to expanding access to music education for young people. With strong Midwest ties and a passion for giving back, Smith’s foundation helps provide free instruments, equipment, teachers, and curriculum to underserved communities across Southeastern Wisconsin.

Event Schedule:

  • Doors open: 11:00 AM

  • Battle of the Bands: 1:00–5:00 PM

  • Live performance: Regenerated: 6:00 PM

Watch the next generation take the stage as young bands compete live, all leading up to a featured performance by Regenerated. And as always, great beer for a great cause—$1 from every beer sold during the event will be donated to support youth music programs.

Come out, support local music, and be part of something that helps the next generation get their start.

APPLY TODAY!

LIVE MUSIC

battle of the bands lineup

COMING SOON

FEATURING
REGENERATED
6:00–9:30

Battle of the Bands: How to Enter

Think your band is ready to go from the garage to the “Big Gig”?

Battle of the Bands – Wisconsin Youth Edition is open to bands made up of musicians ages 12–18. This is more than a competition—it’s a chance to perform live, gain real experience, and connect with industry professionals.

Selected bands will compete on stage at Guitar City Live in front of a live audience.

join us.