Songwriting competitions, why should you participate?

Songwriting Competitions, your breakthrough as a songwriter?
You’ve got the lyrics and the melodies down. You know that your songs are bound to be major hits. But, as a budding songwriter, you’ve probably wondered how to get noticed.

Short of beating down the doors of artists and producers across the globe, songwriting contests are one of the most traveled venues of all new songwriters. Why? Because they are often sponsored by the same people who will promote, sell, record, and pay for new songs.

These contests are a way for new songwriters to get the attention of major music industry professionals. They can open the door to a significant amount of free advertising such as radio, newspaper, and television exposure; great prizes such as cash and music equipment; contracts; and recognition.

Even if you don’t win, you’ve got their attention! Think of contests like American Idol, Nashville Star, and even America’s Next Top Model. What do they have in common? The exposure they give winners and non-winners alike. A songwriting contest works the same way. Even the losers win! Getting noticed is half the battle – the other half being talent.

But, they are not all fluff and festivities. They are cutthroat competitions where every participant plays to win. Since many of the major players in every competition won’t even show up for the festivities until late in the game, you’ll want to make sure that you ride the wave ‘till the end.

Industry bigwigs probably won’t be present for the early rounds of the contest. They want to make sure that they are seeing only the best contestants; those worthy of their time and attention.

And, since the stakes are high, the competition is going to be tough. There’s nothing like a songwriting competition to make you unsure about your ability to play in the big league. You’ll receive lots of criticism, not all of it constructive; and some of it downright nasty. And, there’s usually an entry fee, so you’ll pay for your humiliation.

Nerves will be raw and egos will be destroyed. But just like any contest that has the ability to make or break the latest sensation (think the high-profile failures of American Idol, Nashville Star, and America’s Next Top Model), they leave no room for the weak.

But, make it until the end, and your career could take flight instantly! Today’s major contests are huge career boosters and a win almost guarantees success – as long as you’ve really got the talent to back up your win.

Click here to return to Songwriting Guide home