One Stage.
One Spotlight.
One Breakout Artist.
WASHINGTON MUSICIANS, THIS IS YOUR CASTING CALL.
Doc Swinson’s Whiskey and Northwest Tune-Up are teaming up to give one rising musician or band the kind of opportunity you can’t buy: an opening slot on the main stage at Northwest Tune-Up 2026.
Tune Up Your Curiosity
Northwest Tune-Up has always been about discovering fun: on bikes, in community and on stage. Doc Swinson’s Whiskey shares that same spirit with its craft, creativity and curiosity for the next big moment.
Together, we’re building a platform that elevates emerging Washington musicians, creates real performance opportunities and connects community through live music. This is how opening acts become headliners.
Submissions are closed. Thank you so much to the 200 artists from across the state who entered. Washington's music community is alive and buzzing with talent, and we are so inspired by that.
Meet the final five
Five Washington artists are officially moving on to the final round of the Doc Swinson’s Opening Act Contest. Congratulations to:
Veronica NorthWasabi Samba
Henry Mansfield
Waves Crashing
Loveli
Live finalist showdown
Get ready to pack the house. The top five finalists will take the stage at Bellingham's Wild Buffalo House of Music for the opening slot at Tune-Up—and crowd reaction counts towards the final score. Show up early. Bring friends. Be loud. Your energy helps decide who will opens the main stage this July.
Doc Swinson’s Opening Act Live ShowcaseThursday, March 5
Doors 7 PM | Show 8 PM
21+ | Free entry
Plus: Doc Swinson’s cocktail specials + VIP Tune-Up ticket giveaway for attendees
Keep the music going
The 10 Opening Act semi-finalists brought bold sound and original voices. Stream the full playlist of tunes from the 10 semi-finalists and keep discovering Washington’s next wave of talent.