Call for entries: GreySage songwriting contest in Nigeria

The competition is open to resident songwriters in Nigeria and will reward the winner with a cash prize of ₦100 000 ($260), an opportunity to record and officially release the winning track, as well as career consultation with a reputable entertainment lawyer.

International music lawyer Akinyemi Ayinoluwa, who spoke on behalf of GreySage, told Music In Africa that the competition would aim to draw focus to the value of songwriters in the Nigerian music ecosystem.

“We believe that this art form is too significant to be unappreciated by many tastemakers in the industry,” he said. “There are talented individuals who have mastered the art of weaving lyrics and melody. They do not necessarily have to be the artist, they can be songwriters who help birth songs that add value to the careers of artists.”

Ayinoluwa says collaboration between artists and songwriters is not common in Nigeria, and that songwriters’ contributions are often not acknowledged by the public.

“In more developed music markets we have creatives who earn a living solely as songwriters. With the contest, we will shine a light on songwriters for their importance to the music ecosystem. We want to encourage these talented people to express themselves and showcase their authenticity, brilliance and creativity," he said.

The contest's judges are Nigerian musicians Timi Dakolo, Johnny Drille and Blaq Jerzee. The organisers said the three were selected due to their consistency in writing “amazing, timeless songs”. The judges will be looking out for excellent use of lyrics, messages, rhythms and melodies.

Individuals interested in participating in the songwriting contest must first follow @greysagehq on Instagram, after which they can submit original compositions – complete with a verse and hook or chorus – to any of the beats available for download on the company's website. Thereafter, they can share a 90-second video of their song on Instagram along with the hashtags #securedabag and #greysagesongwritercontest and tag the @greysagehq Instagram page. 

View the original call here.