Less than one month remains before all entries for the International Songwriting Competition must be received for a shot at over $150,000 in cash and prizes.

The annual song contest, which awards 62 individuals in categories ranging from Pop and Rock to Country and Jazz, is an opportunity for songwriters, musicians, and performers to win cash and prizes, further their music careers, and gain recognition and exposure in the music industry.

It also offers songwriters the unprecedented opportunity to have their music listened to by some of the most influential decision-makers in the music industry and some of the best-known artists, including Jerry Lee Lewis, Ricky Martin and Jon Secada, as well as Christian music stars Jeremy Camp, Michael W. Smith and Natalie Grant.

"We're always been impressed with the talented songwriters who participate in the ISC. This is a great A&R source to find new artists,” commented Monte Lipman, president of Universal Records, in a published endorsement.

“I believe that the foundation of music is songs, and songwriters are the brick layers of this foundation,” added Grammy Award-winning gospel and R&B singer Bebe Winans. “I’m proud of how ISC is encouraging these songwriters to become better at their craft and build a solid foundation for the future.”

Depending on the category, submissions are judged on the basis of the following criteria: Creativity, Originality, Lyrics, Melody, and Arrangement. Production/Recording quality and vocal ability are not criteria.

All entries must be mailed or entered online on or before Oct. 15 and will be screened by ISC. The finalists, announced in February 2009, will be sent to the judges who will select the winners, announced in April 2009.

Over $150,000 in cash and prizes will be shared by 62 winners. The Grand Prize winner will receive $25,000 cash and $20,000 in merchandise/services.

In addition to cash and merchandise prizes, winners benefit from a multilateral promotional campaign designed to give international exposure and attention to their songwriting achievements. The Grand Prize winner and First Place winners (except for Lyrics Only and Music Video) will also be included on the ISC Compilation CD distributed to music industry professionals including publishers, record label executives, film and TV music supervisors, and media.

On the Web:
International Songwriting Competition at songwritingcompetition.com.


Used with permission.
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