Calling all the best DJs from Colleges all over Texas! Enter to come to Rice University on November 1st to perform live and represent your school!
The 2026 Texas College DJ Battle will facilitate and promote the continuation of CERCL’s mission through the appropriation of competitive and engaging activities that contribute tto the pillars of Hip Hop culture (DJ'ing, Breaking, Graffiti, MC'ing, and knowledge) as well as preserve the legacies of Hip Hop’s historical legends and influencers.
Eligibility
Currently enrolled students attending any college or university, grad or undergrad in Texas.
First Round Entry Instructions
Step 1
Prepare a short audition video via YouTube
Videos must be no longer than 5 minutes in length and include an intro with your DJ name and your college name, followed by your mix!
Step 2
Fill out the GOOGLE FORM
Enter your real name, DJ name, email, contact number and YouTube audition video link.
Deadline: Entries must be received by midnight October 9, 2026
Selection Criteria
The selection committee will review submissions and select the winners based on creative demonstration of customary DJ skills: Blending, Juggling, Cuts/Beats, Showmanship
For inquiries or further clarification, please contact CERCL@rice.edu
Winners of this first round will be notified by October 12th.
Texas College DJ Battle 2026 @ Rice University
Winners of the first round will join our host DJ Elevated, winner of CERCL first Texas College DJ Battle, to compete for the top spot! The winner of the competition will receive a $500 prize and the inaugural 2026 Michael “5000” Watts Legend Award, named after the late Michael Watts, a popular DJ in the Houston Hip Hop community, in honor of his support of CERCL and the Hip Hop archive.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026
Where: Grand Hall, Rice Memorial Center; Rice University
6100 Main St. Houston, TX 77005
Time: 4pm – 7pm
Thank you to our co-sponsors Rice Rap Club & ACE@Rice