The 32nd Annual Texaco Country Showdown is coming to the area.

KQAQ 970 AM Classic Country Legends will hosting America’s largest country music talent search and radio promotion in Austin this June.

The contest has aimed to find the most promising Country Music Talent in the United States for the past 32 years. The Texaco Country Showdown gives aspiring artists a chance to launch their professional careers. Thousands of performers competeannually for the Country Showdown title.

The talent contests are sponsored by more than 500 radio stations across the country. Local winners advance to more than 40 state contests where the prizes include $1,000 in cash and the opportunity to compete at one of five regional contests in the fall. The five regional winners receive an expense-paid trip to the national final.

About $200,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded nationwide, including $100,000 cash to the national winner, presented at the televised final.

“We consider the Texaco Country Showdown one of the most anticipated events in country music each year,” said Ron Hunter KQAQ’s program director.

The talent search is open to country vocal artists, and they can use their instruments or provide music backgrounds. Acts must not have performed on a record charted in the top 100 country format or billboard within 18 months preceding local competition.

A $20 entry fee is only required of the 12 to 15 contestants chosen to perform live in June. To be considered, a completed entry form must be submitted along with a demo of at least two songs to the Power 96/KQAQ Studio at 109 E Clark Street, Albert Lea, MN 56007 or to kqaq@classiccountrylegends.com.

Entry forms are available at the KQAQ Studio, the Paramount Theatre, Morris Furniture in Albert Lea, or at www.classiccountrylegends.com and www.power96rocker.com.