AVM Sound-Off Rules & Regulations 2026

AVM Sound-Off is open to artists and bands ages 16 and older, with at least one member residing in the Antelope Valley area. All genres are welcome. Applicants must submit a completed application within the designated entry period (May 1-31); Submissions will be reviewed by a panel of industry judges, and twelve (12) semi-finalists will be selected to perform live at the event on June 27. Three (3) finalists will be chosen to proceed to the final round by audience text-to-vote (must be on-site) during the event. Panel of six (6) industry judges will select the final winner who will be announced at the event. Selection decisions are final.

Performance & Equipment

  • Each act will have 8 minutes total on stage.

  • All performances must be live; backing tracks are permitted but may not include lead vocals unless pre-approved.

  • Original music is encouraged; cover songs are permitted.

  • A sound system, stage setup, backline, and drum kit will be provided (this keeps the performance about skill and not special effects).

  • Drummers may bring their own snare head

  • All performers will be given a designated soundcheck time prior to the event, which must be adhered to.

If selected for the live event, artists must submit their intended performance material in advance for review and approval. All material must be family-friendly, as determined solely by Mershops Antelope Valley Mall and AVM Sound-Off judges. Any attempt to perform unapproved or non–family-friendly content during the event may result in the performance being immediately stopped and the act disqualified. All performers must arrive on time for load-in, soundcheck, and performance. Participants are expected to conduct themselves professionally and follow all venue and staff direction. By participating, artists agree to:

  • Arrive prepared and on time

  • Comply with all event, mall / venue, and staff rule and regulations

  • Maintain respectful and professional behavior at all times

All judging and advancement decisions are final. Contestants at the live event will receive a score card with comments after judging. By participating, artists grant Mershops Antelope Valley Mall and affiliates, management, ownership, and all affiliates, AVM Sound-Off judges and associates, permission to photograph, record, and use their name, image, and performance for promotional purposes without compensation. Participants perform at their own risk, and AVM Sound-Off, its organizers, partners, and venue are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage incurred. AVM Sound-Off reserves the right to modify these rules and regulations at any time, and participation constitutes full acceptance of all terms.

Event Timeline

  1. Entry Period (May 1 – May 31)
    Artists (ages 16+, Antelope Valley) submit their entries across all genres.

  2. Judging Round (June 1 – June 14)
    Industry judges review all submissions and select the top 12 semi-finalists.

  3. Semi-Finalist Announcement (June 15)
    The 12 selected artists are announced and promoted leading into the live event.

  4. Live Event — June 27, 6:00pm-9:00pm

    Round 1: Semi-Final Performances

    • All 12 artists perform live

    • Top 3 finalists are determined by audience text-to-vote

    Round 2: Final Performances

    • Top 3 perform again

    Final Decision:

    • Judges select the overall winner and the name is announced.