The secret to a successful fundraiser resides not only in the cause, but in the appeal and entertainment it offers to those who may be inclined to attend.
So credit New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center and The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint for inaugurating “New Hope’s Battle of the Bands: Band Together for Hope,” an event that adds an extra allure. Five local bands aged 25 and under will face off live in a high-energy competition, judged by celebrity judges and cheered on by a live audience. The winner will be awarded the Judges’ Winner Prize in the form of a professionally produced music video courtesy of Big Slate Media.
The competition will take place on Saturday, March 28, 6 p.m., at The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint in Maryville.
Participants were recruited in February and invited to perform two songs for a panel of judges. Notices went out via social media, flyers throughout the high school and colleges, outreach to band and theatre teachers and professors, as well as ads and word of mouth conveyed through New Hope’s staff and board members.
Anna Ferrell, Marketing Director of New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center, said that while the event is exciting for the musicians taking part, the opportunity for the public to get involved makes it all the more enticing.
“Although the event is free, we are relying solely on sponsorships and donations to support of New Hope at the event,” Ferrell said. “We will have a Public’s Choice award that will gives everyone a chance to vote on their favorite artist or band. Every dollar paid equals one vote. This will make it more interactive for attendees and allow them to play more of a role in that final decision.”
The five participants are:
Millie Rochelle: At just 16 years old, Millie Rochelle is an East Tennessee singer-songwriter blending Americana and indie pop with haunting vocals and honest, emotional storytelling. Drawing inspiration from Appalachian roots and modern indie influences, her music captures the quiet intensity of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.
Elizabeth Frisby: A folk music singer/songwriter, Frisby’s goal is to grow a music career.
Rocky Top Scandal: A multi-genre cover band primarily focusing on classic/southern rock, they say that being part of a fundraiser that supports kids is especially meaningful to them because it helps give a voice to those who may feel like it was taken away. They went on to say, “This feels like an important way for us to use our music for something bigger than ourselves.”
The Hopeless Condition: This Metalcore band is participating in order to gain experience in performing at public events, and to possibly win a chance to record a video.
EmiSunshine: An acclaimed and established Americana singer-songwriter in these realms, she has a list of accolades that include two Josie Music Awards in 2025 (for “Artist of the Year – Country Female” and “Song of the Year – Americana Female” for “Hercules.”
Jay Proulx, The Shed’s Managing Director, said his venue is once again pleased to partner with New Hope as it has in the past.
“We have partnered with New Hope for the last several years, doing a more intimate ticketed event in the Smokin Monkey Lounge, said. “New Hope wanted to change things up a bit, and they came up with the Battle of the Bands idea. Logistics for the event are being handled by Anna and her team.”
Not surprisingly, Ferrell’s enthusiasm is also obvious.
“We are excited about the shift in direction to have five young, local East Tennessee artists taking part,” she continued. “We are grateful to be using the outdoor space at The Shed. We also have Encore Sponsors — Jackie S Mills Homes, Foothills K-9 Training, and Seidel Wealth Strategies. Individuals or businesses can sponsor for a $250 contribution and receive VIP tickets in return.”
The event supports New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center, which provides critical services to children in Blount County who have experienced trauma or abuse. In 2024 alone, New Hope served 677 children, and yet the need continues to grow. Every dollar raised helps restore hope and healing for children and families in Blount County.
Indeed, the statistics are quite dire. One in 10 children will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. New Hope provides forensic interviews, advocacy services, medical exams, and ongoing therapy all under one roof at no cost to the family. Their goal is to ensure a child will only have to tell their story of abuse one time. Because they work the bulk of the cases, DCS, Child Protective Services, and law enforcement are all housed at the facility.
“We are grateful that this event will help us raise awareness of what we do,” Ferrell added. The Shed is the best partner and venue location. It’s right down the road. Please join us for an unforgettable evening of music, community, and hope.”
The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint is located at 1820 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville. Food and beverages will be available for purchase onsite at The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint.
For more information, contact New Hope’s Children’s Advocacy Center at 865-981-2000.
