Call for entries: 2021 International Songwriting Competition

Both aspiring and established songwriters stand an opportunity to have their songs heard in a professional, international arena.

"ISC is designed to nurture the musical talent of songwriters on all levels and promote excellence in the art of songwriting. Amateur and professional songwriters and musicians are invited to participate," the organisers said.

"ISC has the most prestigious panel of judges of all the songwriting and music contests in the world, offering exposure and the opportunity to have your songs heard by the most influential decision-makers in the music industry."

Some of the listed judges on the ISC website include Coldplay, Dua Lipa, Tom Waits and Arturo Sandoval. Previous African musicians who have been on the judging panel include Amadou and Mariam (Mali), Youssou N'Dour (Senegal) and Femi Kuti (Nigeria).

Who can apply?

The organisers are accepting applications from participants of any age and naitonality. The entries can be submitted in the following categories:

• Adult Album Alternative (AAA)
• Adult Contemporary (AC)
• Americana
• Blues
• Children's Music
• Christian
• Comedy/Novelty
• Country
• Electronic Dance Music (EDM)
• Folk/Singer-Songwriter
• Instrumental
• Jazz
• Latin Music
• Lyrics Only
• Music Video
• Performance
• Pop/Top 40
• R&B/Hip-Hop
• Rock
• Teen
• Unpublished
• Unsigned Only
• World Music

Note:

• Entrants may submit as many songs as they wish – either in the same category or in multiple categories.
• There is no physical event to attend and anyone can enter from the safety and comfort of their own home.

Selection process

The jury will award winners based on:

• Creativity.
• Originality.
• Lyrics (excludes songs that do not have lyrics).
• Melody.
• Arrangement.
• Overall likeability.
• Production/recording quality.
• Vocal ability.

How to apply 

To fill out the online application form, entrants must:

• Read and understand the guidelines.
• Pay $30 for every song submitted.

Prizes

View how the awards process and schedule is done here.

Deadline

Submission deadlines are as follows:

• Regular deadline – 23 September 2020.
• Extended deadline – 4 November 2020.

For more information, send an email to info@songwritingcompetition.com.