How Young Musicians Can Shine In Iowa's Talent Contest

It's time to show everyone in Iowa what you already know. Your kid rocks.

The Iowa Rocks Talent Contest from the Iowa Rock 'N Roll Music Association is now open to kids to show their stuff. Winners will receive a $5,000 prize package! That could make all those long days of hauling their gear for lessons worth it.

Statewide Talent Search For 21 and Under

boy singing on microphone with pop filter — Photo by Jason Rosewell on Unsplash

Ted Poulsen, President of the Board of the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association, says, “We are proud to present the 12th annual 'Iowa Rocks Talent' competition. This is a statewide competition for Iowa’s young musicians to showcase the music they love and to compete for a grand prize of recording time at a major Iowa recording studio.”

To get your kid in the contest, get your kid rockin'. Record them and put the videos on YouTube. Then go to the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association’s website right here to upload the two YouTube video links. The deadline for all applications is 11:59 pm, Wednesday, July 31.

There are two divisions of competition: individual artist or band (2 or more members). Participants will be chosen to compete in the Finals on Sept. 5, 2026, at Pearson Lakes Art Center in Okoboji, IA.

Champions will receive a prize package valued at $5,000, including professional studio recording time and the opportunity to open for the Iowa Rock 'n Roll Induction Concert in the Roof Garden Ballroom on Sept. 6.

Heart Emoji Meanings

Heart emojis have basically become their own language. ❤️💛💚💙💜

One minute, someone sends you a red heart, and you're feeling loved, the next you're staring at a black heart, wondering if they're being dramatic, mysterious, or just really into Halloween.

While most of us use heart emojis every day, each color actually has its own meaning, vibe, and personality. Whether you're texting your crush, hyping up your best friend, or trying to decode a message you just received, here's what all those colorful little hearts are really saying.

Key Suit Colors & Meanings

Guys, let's be honest... most of us think a suit is just a suit. But the color you wear can actually say a lot about you before you even shake someone's hand. Are you trying to look powerful? Trustworthy? Stylish? Like you have your life completely together even if you definitely don't? Different suit colors give off different vibes, and people notice them more than you think. From classic black and navy to bold colors that practically scream "look at me," here's what your suit color might be saying about you the moment you walk into the room.