Time to enter the 26th annual USA Songwriting Competition

Andrew Jannakos: the singer-songwriter teamed up with co-writer Michael O’Neal Smith and won the top award at the 2020 USA Songwriting Competition

Entries are being accepted for the international contest, where songwriters have the chance to win a top prize of $50,000

The 26th annual USA Songwriting Competition is open and accepting entries until 28 May 2021. With entrants able to submit multiple compositions in 15 different categories, including Pop, Rock/Alt, Folk, R&B, Hip-Hop, Jazz and Instrumental, winning songs are guaranteed radio airplay and this year’s grand prize includes $50,000 and additional merchandise.

Judges for the competition are made up of publishers, producers and A&R from companies such as Universal Music, Sony Music and Warner. Southern Skies by Andrew Jannakos & Michael O’Neal Smith was last year’s Grand Prize. Speaking of the win, Jannakos said, “I was so shocked that my song got selected winner of the top prize in the USA Songwriting competition, I hope I can continue to make music that you all enjoy. It’s amazing because I’ve also recently been signed to Sony Music Nashville Records!”

Several previous USA Songwriting Competition winners have gone on to land recording and publishing contracts, see their songs hit the charts, and win awards. The 2018 winner David Wilcox received radio airplay for his song We Make the Away by Walking, the 2013 winner American Authors signed to Island Records and topped the Billboard Charts, and the 2005 winner of the Country category had his winning song cut by superstar Faith Hill.

Despite the title, the songwriting competition is open all regardless of nationality – past winners have come from UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Germany, Brazil, South Africa and more. Entry costs $35 per song.

Entrance form and FAQs for the USA Songwriting Competition can be found at songwriting.net

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