Between now and July 4, bands can sign up and upload their best MP3s at the official competition website, www.playcrossroads.com, for a shot at an all-expenses-paid trip to Chicago to perform live on the Ernie Ball Guitar Center Village Stage, on Saturday, July 28th.

Throughout the sign-up period, fans will have the chance to vote for their favorite bands online at www.playcrossroads.com. A panel of judges will then review the top 100 bands by way of fan votes, ultimately choosing just one talented winner. Musicianship, the ability to draw a crowd, and originality will all play a role in the judges’ selection criteria. The winner will be announced on July 10.

“This is truly the opportunity of a lifetime – to perform live at one of the most renowned live music events on the planet. The stage couldn't be brighter for the aspiring artists that sign up – we're expecting a great turnout,” said Brian Ball of the Ernie Ball Company.

Profits from the Eric Clapton Guitar Festival will benefit The Crossroads Centre in Antigua, a treatment and education facility founded by Clapton for chemically dependent persons. Founded in 1997, Crossroads Centre, Antigua was created to provide treatment and education to chemically dependent persons, those with other compulsive addictive behaviors, their families and significant others. Treatment is provided through residential care, family and aftercare programs. The pathway to recovery is founded on the movement toward a change in lifestyle. Crossroads Centre, Antigua also operates a 16 bed halfway-house called The Bevon House (exclusively for local Antiguan residents) and facilitates a school-based education series, Breaking the Cycle, in all local schools.

Ernie Ball was the first to offer rock strings with the creation of Slinkys, and further revolutionized the market by offering guitarists Custom-Gauge single strings. The Ernie Ball Company also produces Music Man guitars and basses, volume pedals, and other accessories. The company's strings and accessories are available in more than 6,000 music stores throughout the U.S. The company also exports to 82 countries. For more information, contact the Ernie Ball company at (800) 543-2255, or visit their website at www.ernieball.com.