Panic Prize

The Panic Prize of the Udo Lindenberg Foundation honors young musicians, lyricists, and bands from Hamburg who write bold, cheeky, and socially critical German lyrics and consciously position themselves outside the mainstream. Established as a one-time award, the three best acts are each awarded €5,000; places four to six receive €2,500. An independent expert jury combines lyrical originality, musical creativity, and commitment against established structures to select six finalists. These present their works live at the Pop Academy Mannheim before the winners are crowned in a streamed final. Additionally, the winners will perform at the Hermann Hesse Festival 2026 in the Hirsau Monastery Ruins, while a separate special prize for the "Best Hermann Hesse Setting to Music" is endowed with €1,000.

Applicants eligible are emerging talents without a contract with a major company, whose song lyrics are predominantly in German. The submission includes three songs, a music video, and optionally a short (max. 30 seconds) introduction video for social media channels. The deadline is May 30, 2026. Overall, the Panic Prize offers an unusual springboard: it promotes creative initiative, strengthens the regional music scene in Hamburg, and generates media attention. Thus, the program is aimed at all those ready to confidently showcase their individual style and artistic stance while forging new paths.