Songwriting competitions can transform a musician’s career at any stage. If you haven’t entered one, now is the time. These contests provide exposure, networking opportunities, and career-boosting prizes for both beginners and experienced songwriters.
Even without winning, submitting songs increases visibility and connects you with industry professionals. Many contests offer cash prizes, mentorships, recording sessions, and live performances. Finalists and winners gain credibility, strengthening their press kits, bios, and even Wikipedia eligibility.
Most contests require only a song, short form, MP3 upload, and a small fee ($15-$45). The process takes less than 15 minutes, making it a quick, high-value career move.
I deeply suggest you add Songwriting competitions to your music marketing arsenal.
How Songwriting Competitions Can Advance Your Music Career
Beyond potential prizes, songwriting competitions provide invaluable career advantages, including:
Build Valuable Industry Connections – Top songwriters, producers, and A&R executives often judge these competitions, creating opportunities for career-changing relationships. Boost Your Music Career – Winning can lead to sync licensing deals, publishing contracts, and festival slots, opening doors to bigger opportunities. Gain Professional Feedback – Some contests provide score sheets or written critiques, offering expert insights to refine your songwriting skills. Perform on Stage – Many competitions feature live showcases, giving artists the chance to present their music to industry leaders and fans. And network!
Now that you know why songwriting competitions are worth your time, here’s a list of the best ones to enter in 2025
International Songwriting Competition (ISC)
https://www.songwritingcompetition.com/
The International Songwriting Competition (ISC) is a well-known annual contest open to both amateur and professional songwriters worldwide. It offers over $150,000 in cash and prizes, including a $25,000 grand prize. Participants have the chance to get their songs heard by top industry professionals, including celebrity artists and executives. The competition spans a wide range of genres, creating opportunities for songwriters of all styles. As a result, ISC is a great way for artists to gain recognition and advance their careers.
Deadline: Typically, in early September annually
Categories: AAA (Adult Album Alternative), AC (Adult Contemporary), Americana, Blues, Children’s Music, Christian, Comedy/Novelty, Country, EDM (Electronic Dance Music), Folk/Singer-Songwriter, Hip-Hop/Rap, Instrumental, Jazz, Latin Music, Lyrics Only, Music Video, Performance, Pop/Top 40, R&B/Soul, Rock, Teen, Unpublished, Unsigned, World Music.
USA Songwriting Competition
Since its launch in 1995, the USA Songwriting Competition has become a prestigious international event that celebrates songwriters, composers, bands, and recording artists. Notably, it awards a grand prize of $50,000, which includes cash, merchandise, and radio airplay for the winning songs. Unlike some competitions, this one welcomes participants from all backgrounds, regardless of nationality or country of origin. Additionally, it embraces a wide range of musical genres, making it a fantastic opportunity for diverse artists.
Deadline: Typically, in late May annually
Categories: Pop, Rock/Alt, Folk, Country, R&B/Hip-Hop, Jazz, Instrumental, Gospel/Inspirational, Latin, Children’s, Lyrics Only, and more.
Great American Song Contest
https://www.greatamericansong.com/
The Great American Song Contest is a fantastic opportunity for amateur songwriters, lyricists, and composers to gain recognition. Unlike many competitions, this one provides direct feedback from industry professionals, helping artists refine their craft. Winners not only receive awards in various categories but also detailed written evaluations of their work. Ultimately, the contest is dedicated to promoting talent and artistry at every level, making it an excellent choice for aspiring songwriters.
Deadline: Typically in November annually
Categories: Pop, Rock/Alt, Folk, Country, Singer-Songwriter, Christian/Gospel, Instrumental, Lyrics Only, Special Category Music
John Lennon Songwriting Contest
The John Lennon Songwriting Contest is open to both amateur and professional songwriters worldwide. Since its founding in 1997, it has honored John Lennon’s legacy by awarding over $300,000 in cash and prizes each year. Notably, the competition runs in two sessions annually, selecting 12 Grand Prize winners and 36 Finalists per session. Furthermore, one Song of the Year winner receives an additional $20,000 in cash. Most importantly, judging is conducted by renowned artists and industry professionals, offering participants valuable exposure and career opportunities.
Deadlines: Session I: June 15 / Session II: December 15 (annually). They also have monthly winners – check the site!
Categories: Rock, Pop, Hip-Hop, Country, Jazz, R&B, Children’s, Folk, World, Latin, Electronic, Gospel/Inspirational.
Mid-Atlantic Song Contest (MASC)
Presented by the Songwriters’ Association of Washington (SAW), the Mid-Atlantic Song Contest (MASC) aims to help songwriters receive recognition for their work and to further excellence in songwriting through education. Entrants compete for monetary awards, recording credits, and performance opportunities at the MASC Awards Show. Gold, Silver, Finalist, and Honorable Mention awards are presented in each category, with additional overall awards such as the Director’s and Young Artist Awards. The contest is open to songwriters worldwide.
Deadline: Submissions start in July and typically close in mid-October annually
Categories: Adult Contemporary, Americana, Children’s, Country/Bluegrass, Folk Acoustic, Freedom, Gospel/Inspirational, Instrumental, Lyrics Only, Open, Pop, R&B/Hip-Hop/Urban, Rock/Alternative, Vocal Jazz/Blues, Video.
The American Songwriter Contest
https://americansongwriter.com/contests-new/
The American Songwriter Song Contest is an annual competition that highlights talented songwriters in multiple genres. Each year, participants submit their original songs to a panel of highly respected judges, including #1 songwriters, artists, and A&R executives. In addition to recognition, the contest awards a $10,000 grand prize and offers mentorship from major label A&R professionals. Moreover, entries are judged based on overall song quality, including both lyrics and melody. Ultimately, this contest provides global songwriters a platform to gain exposure and advance their careers.
Deadlines: Song Contest: Early December • Lyric Contests: Rolling Monthly
Categories: Americana, Blues, Christian, Children’s, Comedy/Novelty, Country, EDM, Golden (50+), Hip-Hop/Rap, Indie, Instrumental, Jazz, Latin, Music Video, Musical Theater, Pop, R&B/Soul, Rock, Teen, World Music
NSAI Song Contest
https://www.nsaisongcontest.com/
The NSAI Song Contest, organized by the Nashville Songwriters Association International, is an annual competition that celebrates songwriters across all genres. The contest offers substantial prizes, including cash awards, mentorship sessions with industry professionals, performance opportunities at renowned venues like The Bluebird Cafe and the Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival, and various music gear and publishing packages. Participants receive valuable feedback through judging score sheets, providing insights into their songwriting craft. The contest is open to songwriters worldwide aged 13 and above, offering a platform to showcase their talents and advance their careers.
Deadline: Submission Period: October 1 to November 1
Categories: Song Category: Full songs with music and lyrics. • Lyric Category: Lyrics only, without accompanying music.
The contest is open to songwriters who are legal residents of the United States (excluding Maryland, Colorado, and Connecticut), Canada (excluding Quebec), the United Kingdom, and Australia, aged 13 years or older, unless otherwise prohibited.
Unsigned Only Music Awards 2025
The Unsigned Only Music Awards is an international competition recognizing exceptional unsigned artists across multiple genres. The grand prize winner receives $20,000 in cash, and all winners receive a custom award designed by Society Awards (creators of the Emmy and Golden Globe trophies). The contest is judged by music industry icons, including LeAnn Rimes, Rodney Atkins, and Robert Smith of The Cure, offering participants valuable exposure and career opportunities.
Deadlines: Early Bird Deadline: December 16 • Regular Deadline: March 3 • Extended Deadline: May 7
Categories: AAA (Adult Album Alternative), AC (Adult Contemporary), Americana, Blues, Children’s, Christian, Country, EDM, Folk/Singer-Songwriter, Global Music, Instrumental, Jazz, Latin, Lyricist, Pop/Top 40, R&B/Soul, Rap/Hip-Hop, Rock, Sync (original songs for Film/TV/Advertising/Gaming), Teen (artists 18 and under), Best Female Vocalist, Best Male Vocalist, Best Music Video.
For Young Songwriters (Under Age 22) Song Academy Young Songwriter
https://www.songacademy.co.uk/says25/
The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2025 (SAYS25) competition is an esteemed international contest designed to nurture and showcase the talents of young songwriters aged 8 to 22. Now in its 15th year, this competition provides a valuable platform for both budding and experienced young musicians. Not only do participants get to have their original compositions heard by industry leaders, but they also gain the opportunity to connect with a global community of peers.
Moreover, the competition offers a range of exciting prizes, making it a fantastic opportunity for aspiring artists. Winners can receive a home studio setup, a recording session with a top producer, and, most importantly, the chance to perform live at The Young Songwriter 2025 showcase. As a result, this competition serves as a powerful stepping stone for young musicians looking to break into the industry.
Deadline: Entries open from February 1 to March 31, 2025.
Categories: Age Groups: 8-12, 13-15, 16-18, 19-22 Regions: UK/Ireland & International
HOOKED! Songwriting Contest 2025
https://www.hookedsongwritingcontest.com/
The HOOKED! Songwriting Contest is a dynamic annual event that showcases original music from emerging songwriters. Unlike many competitions, it includes a live performance element, making it a great opportunity for artists who thrive on stage. Each year, the contest culminates in Branson, MO, where the top ten finalists perform live before celebrity judges and an enthusiastic audience.
Not only does the contest offer cash prizes, but it also features a fan vote, giving audiences a chance to support their favorite artists. Beyond the competition, participants gain valuable industry connections, helping them advance their careers. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds supports local charities, reinforcing a strong sense of community and artistic collaboration.
Deadline: Entries open March 1 through August 1 • Live show in Branson, MO – Early October
Categories: Open to all genres; focus on original compositions.
Go Ahead – Submit To ONE Songwriting Competition
Why wait? You have nothing to lose and so much to gain by submitting your music. After all, one contest could open doors to career-changing opportunities. If you’ve got a great song, take just 15 minutes to enter. Who knows? This simple step might lead to something incredible.
Do you know of any other great songwriting competitions? If so, send me a DM on Instagram @CyberPRMusic, and I’ll add them to this list! 
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