Keya Trammell Wins $10,000 Grand Prize at 2026 Chicago Made Music Showcase
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and Next Showcase USA announced the winners of the 2026 Chicago Made Music Showcase, held Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Chicago Cultural Center’s Claudia Cassidy Theater.
Multidisciplinary artist Keya Trammell received the $10,000 grand prize after performing alongside 16 other finalists. Mike Lawry Baby and Luis Alfredo each received an additional $1,500 cash prize.
More than 150 artists auditioned for this year’s showcase. A panel of industry professionals selected the 17 finalists and evaluated their performances. The panel included award-winning artist Sir the Baptist, entertainment lawyer Daryl Jones, Interscope/Capitol Records executive Caryn Lee, and music producer and writer Matt Hennessy.
“Chicago is home to extraordinary musical talent, and the Chicago Made Music Showcase is one way we’re helping local artists take their careers to the next level,” said DCASE Commissioner Kenya K. Merritt. She noted that the program connects emerging musicians with industry leaders, professional resources and performance opportunities across the city.
The following artists earned performance spots at upcoming Chicago events:
Lollapalooza Chicago Made performances
Zion Ali
Zia Jenaye
Taste of Chicago Goose Island Stage
Vee Armstrong
Tim Farrell
Huey Gang
Andrew Hoyt
Lima
Estefania Mena
JJ Smith
Smooie
Youth blues and funk ensemble Knott Us Band also won opportunities to perform at the 2026 Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and the 2027 Chicago Blues Festival.
Through Chicago Made, DCASE supports local creatives, entrepreneurs and artisans as they build sustainable careers. The program connects emerging talent with professional resources, networks and audiences through cultural programming across Chicago.
Learn more at ChicagoMade.us and follow DCASE on social media at @ChicagoDCASE using #ChicagoMade.
