Local virtual singing competition fundraiser underway

FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — United Way Emerald Coast is excited to kick off Rock United, a virtual singing competition for local bands and musicians.

Among this year’s contestants are The Voice veterans, Emily Bass and Jared Herzog, as well as last year’s Rock United runner-up, Reese Branton.

Rock United celebrates and recognizes the great musical talent in Okaloosa and Walton counties while helping our community by supporting the efforts of United Way Emerald Coast.

Rock United is organized in a single-elimination bracket tournament. The winner of each match-up is based on the number of votes in the United Way Rock United fundraiser.

Every dollar raised equals one vote. Money raised during tournament voting will benefit United Way Emerald Coast’s fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every member of our community.

Sixteen artists who live, work, or perform along the Emerald Coast are competing in Rock United this year including Autumn Poultry, Jason Balbuena, Bangarang Peter, Emily Bass, BoDean and the Poachers, Reese Branton, Jared Herzog, Jody Lucas, Chapman Martin, Donnie Morgan, Nick 2, SheAndTheIts, Skunk Lip, ThatGuySlimm, Phil Tittle, and Wild Charge.

The Grand Prize winner will be awarded $2,500, perform at the Sound Waves Music Series featuring Cole Swindell on November 6, 2021, at the Gulf on Okaloosa Island, and receive a robust media package including a photoshoot with Blacksuit FM Photography.

Additionally, the winner will receive a billboard feature from TierOne Media, a full-page article in VIP 30A Magazine, custom t-shirts from Fresh Prints of South Walton, and studio recording time with Immanuel Music Project.

View artist videos and vote for your favorite at united-way.org/rockunited.