Battle Of The Bands is a relatively generic term for a contest in which many bands compete for the title of "best band". The winner is determined by a panel of judges, the general response of the audience, or a combination. The winning band usually receives a prize in addition to bragging rights . Prizes usually include cash, free recording time in a local recording studio, a piece of new equipment, or a gift certificate.

So-called megachurches are hosting Battles more and more. The money of a megachurch offers the Battle a large venue, very good sound, a professional sound engineer, possibly lights, and excellent promotion of the show. For fans, these Battles are very inexpensive and the church does a little evangelizing in the form of a video or from the youth pastor.