Unsigned Rock / Alt Bands: Play #Happens 2026 in Front of Label & Radio Execs
For the last few months, Kelzana has been working with #Happens, an annual rock and alternative music conference, to develop and execute comprehensive social media and paid media strategies for the Las Vegas event taking place in late February.
For years, #Happens has been the launching pad where rock and alternative radio programmers, music executives, and emerging and established artists meet up to essentially shape the future of the genre. To give you an idea of the caliber of bands they get on their stage, in recent years they’ve hosted Daughtry, Bush, The Offspring, Nickelback, Alter Bridge, Papa Roach, Disturbed, Incubus, Mammoth, and sooo many more.
One key part of the social media strategy is the #PlayHappens2026 Showcase Contest, offering one unsigned rock or alternative band the opportunity to perform in front of record label executives, radio programmers, music industry tastemakers, passionate superfans, and potential collaborators and sponsors (a $20k+ value!).
For any alt or rock band interested, all you need to do is:
Post a live performance video with #PlayHappens2026
Tag @hashtag.happens as a collaborator
Optional: Tag your local alt/rock radio station for additional exposure
More info here: https://happens.vip/2026-band-performance-contest/
Deadline:12/12
Feel free to send this newsletter to an unsigned rock / alt band you think deserves a shot to play in front of industry folks. This is a huge opportunity and it’s incredibly easy to enter!
