KNOCKERS -Fukuoka New Generation Music Contest- Announces Keiichi Sokabe of Sunny Day Service as Judge!

Fukuoka City is implementing various measures, including information dissemination and human resource development, to enhance its presence as a 'Music City.' Starting this fiscal year, the city will hold a new music contest aimed at discovering and nurturing high school-aged talent aspiring to become music artists, and expanding the base of music culture. By supporting extracurricular activities for high school students, the city aims to increase the number of individuals who continue their musical activities after graduation. We are pleased to announce the judges and the outline of the live performance judging. KNOCKERS -Fukuoka New Generation Music Contest- Overview ■ Contest Overview Date: August 18, 2026 (Tue) *Live performance by Mr. Sokabe will also be held. Venue: BEAT STATION (4-11-4 Watanabe-dori, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture) Keiichi Sokabe (Vocalist/Guitarist, Sunny Day Service) Yu Shiiba (Radio DJ/Director, Podcaster, MC/Talent) Mansaku Kashii (Editor-in-Chief of NiEW / Representative Director of NiEW Inc.) Hyuga Kashii (Music Engineer/Producer) Groups or individuals where at least 2/3 of members are of high school age (approx. 15-18 years old) in the Fukuoka metropolitan area. Performance video of a song (original or cover allowed). April 22 (Wed) - June 30 (Tue) Grand Prize: Performance at 'The Creators' stage, song recording, distribution, etc. Other: General Voting Award, etc. Free ■ Related Event: 'Music School for Teens' A talk event to learn know-how for continuing music activities is scheduled to be held online in mid-June. *Details such as performers and dates will be announced later. Free ■ Website https://www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/keizai/contents/charm/knockers2026.html