Sonic Spotlight applications now open

Applications are now open for the 5th annual Sonic Spotlight!

Applications are now open for the 5th annual Sonic Spotlight, a Northern Colorado competition that’s all about encouraging and supporting young musicians in any genre.

Those who apply have a chance to win an emerging-artist wish list of prizes, including a professionally produced music video, photo shoot, custom T-shirts, live showcase opportunities, studio time, connection with peers, a chance to work with industry experts, gift cards, and more.

Sonic Spotlight is again brought to you by The Colorado Sound along with the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery and the Bohemian Foundation.

Musicians from Northern Colorado aged 22 or younger are welcome to apply to be part of the 2024 Sonic Spotlight. To qualify, all artists and band members need to reside in Larimer or Weld counties. All song submissions need to be original. Applications are open now.

A panel of music industry veterans will pick a group of semi-finalists, who will be given new attention and opportunities. The group will then be narrowed down to three finalists, all of whom will premier their new music videos and perform live on stage during a showcase event at Washington’s in Fort Collins in 2025. That evening, one finalist will be named winner.  

Related: Sonic Spotlight 2021 finalists perform at Washington’s in Fort Collins

Previous Sonic Spotlight winners

Below are videos, images, and links highlighting previous Sonic Spotlight winners.

Winner of the 4th annual Sonic Spotlight was “fuzz-folk band” autumnal.

Sonic Spotlight debuted in 2020, and the winner was Miranda Fling. Below is her song “Any Other Way.”

The winner of the 2021 Sonic Spotlight was Julia Kirkwood. Below she sings “Material.” 

The 2022 Sonic Spotlight winner was Fiona Sofia. Below is the video she created during the competition for her song “Crying Rich.” 

Visit the Sonic Spotlight website to learn more about the competition. When you’re ready, use this online application.