CLAYTON, N.C. - The Clayton Downtown Development Association will host its first ever "Battle of the Bands" as part of the Town Square Concert Series on Sept. 18 at 7 p.m., and the city is now looking for talented local bands.

The performances will take place at the Clayton Town Square on East Main Street between O'Neil and Fayetteville streets.

Five bands will be selected to perform three songs for about 15 minutes in total length. The grand prize is worth $1,000 with second and third prizes $500 and $250 respectively.

Entries should be received by July 1, 2008 and should include a CD with three songs, a band photo, contact information, and a list of recent performances. Band selection will be announced on Aug. 15.

All bands must be family-friendly. There must be no profanity or derogatory lyrics, and the bands must be able to perform on Sept. 18. The performance order will be selected at random and karaoke machines or pre-recorded music are not eligible.

All musical genres are welcome to submit an entry. The selection committee is comprised of professional musicians and others with musical knowledge.