Foley Ranch’s Annual Rising Star Vocal Competition Returns
Join the Search for Arizona’s Next Country Star This Summer
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Foley Ranch is on the hunt for the next great local country singer and is excited to present its third annual Rising Star Vocal competition. Talented vocal performers of all ages are invited to saddle up to stardom and showcase their skills. The competition kicks off May 16 and will continue throughout the summer until the main championship event on July 11. The winner of the competition will receive an incredible prize package and win the 2026 Rising Star Award.
Whether you are a seasoned performer or just getting started, this is your chance to shine on stage and connect with a live audience that loves country music as much as you do. Previous winners include Evelyn Errante (2024), who has since gone on to compete on America’s Got Talent, and Jai Graves (2025).
This eight-week competition is open to all ages, with one winner taking home a $500 cash prize plus paid bookings at Foley Ranch. Performers can either be soloists or part of a duet. The first five weeks will be preliminary rounds, during which 10 different artists will get to stun the judges with their singing. Next are two weeks of semi-finals, leading up to the grand finale on July 11.
If selected, participants will need to prepare a vocal performance with either a guitar or music tracks that Foley Ranch will provide. Contestants on their assigned date will get to perform two country songs. Performances begin at noon. The competition is a true community experience where both the panel of judges and the audience will have a say in who advances to the next round. Participants are encouraged to bring friends and family to participate in the voting process.
“We are excited to once again present the Rising Star Vocal competition for aspiring Arizona country singers,” said Don Talbot, owner of Foley Ranch. “There were so many incredible artists who participated in the first two competitions and we can’t wait to showcase all the amazing singers yet to hit the Foley Ranch stage. Live music is an important part of the Foley Ranch experience, and we are so excited to be a part of finding the next generation of talent.”
Those interested in participating can enter by uploading a video in MP4 or MOV format via the entry link on the Foley Ranch website which also includes the rules for this competition. If selected to perform, artists will need to provide additional information. This includes their full name, phone number, email address, Instagram handle, a headshot, availability on Saturdays over the next five weeks, personal inspiration, four country song selections in order of preference (to avoid duplicates), and a live recording of one country song of choice. This performance can be either a cappella or accompanied. Contestants will be notified at least five days prior to their scheduled performance date to give them plenty of time to prepare and get excited.
Country music singers of all ages are invited to come show their community what they got. With a lively atmosphere and a supportive audience, this competition will once again be the highlight of the Phoenix music scene.
For more information about Foley Ranch, visit https://www.foleyranch.com/ or follow at https://www.instagram.com/foleyranchaz/.
About Foley Ranch
Foley Ranch is a popular new locally owned restaurant renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, live country music, and amazing smokehouse barbecue. They’re not just about great times – they’re also dedicated to supporting important causes in the community.

