July has been another major month for IEST Multimedia as we continue creating new ways for Inland Empire artists, creators, businesses and entertainment fans to connect.
From the return of the IEST Open Verse Challenge to new video games and the upcoming Top 25 Artists of July, the IEST ecosystem continues to grow across music, radio, television, gaming and live experiences.
The IEST Open Verse Challenge Is Heating Up
The IEST Open Verse Challenge is giving competitive artists another opportunity to showcase their skills, reach new listeners and advance through the IEST Open Verse League.
Our latest challenge features production from Teedoteinsof, who delivered the official beat for participating artists. To enter, artists must download the beat, record a video performing their verse and tag or invite @ie_soundtrack as a collaborator.
Artists are competing for cash prizes, IEST promotion and an opportunity to advance to the next round. Previous winners 504 Deal and producer Parish Walker helped set the tone for the 2026 competition, and now a new group of artists is stepping forward.
If you are an MC who enjoys real competition, this is your opportunity to be heard. Download the beat, record your verse and enter the challenge.
IEST Expands Into Video Games
IEST is also continuing to expand its original gaming division.
The IEST Arcade now includes the 909 Day Runner and IEST Baseball, giving fans another interactive way to experience the IEST network.
In 909 Day Runner, players race toward the 909 Day stage while collecting items, avoiding obstacles and enjoying music from the official playlist. Playable characters include Ms. Privilege, Noa James and IEST mascot IGGY.
The games are designed to connect entertainment, music and community participation. IEST is also developing the IGGY Coin rewards system, which will allow players to earn rewards that can eventually be used toward prizes, tickets, merchandise and special IEST experiences.
This is only the beginning. Future IEST games will continue introducing artists, movie characters, local landmarks, sponsors and original music from throughout the Inland Empire.
Celebrating the Top 25 Artists of July
IEST is preparing to reveal its Top 25 Artists of July.
The monthly Top 25 is designed to recognize artists who are creating momentum, releasing quality music, connecting with audiences and helping move Inland Empire culture forward.
The list will feature established names alongside emerging talent that deserves more attention. It also gives fans an opportunity to discover new music and support artists representing the region.
The complete Top 25 Artists of July will be announced across the IEST platforms. Selected artists may also receive additional exposure through IEST Radio, playlists, interviews, video programming and future events.
One Network, More Ways to Participate
Every new IEST project is part of one connected multimedia network.
Fans can watch original programming on IESoundtrack.tv, listen to music and IEST Radio on IESoundtrack.stream, play games through the IEST Arcade and discover new opportunities across the IEST digital ecosystem.
Artists, producers, filmmakers, DJs, businesses and brands can also register with IEST to be considered for interviews, radio play, playlists, games, movies, events, marketplace opportunities and multimedia campaigns.
July showed what is possible when music, media, technology and Inland Empire culture come together—and there is much more on the way.
Watch. Listen. Play. Join IEST.
