Songwriting competitions offer exposure, credibility, feedback, and sometimes significant prizes. They can introduce your music to industry professionals and open doors that are otherwise hard to access. Here's how to approach songwriting competitions strategically and maximize your chances of standing out.
Not all competitions are created equal. Research contests to ensure they're reputable, relevant to your genre, and offer meaningful prizes or exposure. Look for competitions judged by industry professionals, and check the track record of past winners. Avoid contests that seem more interested in collecting entry fees than supporting songwriters.
Select the song that best represents your abilities and fits the competition's criteria. Read the submission guidelines carefully — some contests have genre or theme requirements. Submit the song that gives you the best chance of winning within those parameters, even if it's not your personal favorite.
Competition judges listen to many entries, so first impressions matter. Ensure your recording is clean and professional. Polish your lyrics until every word earns its place. Make sure your song structure is tight and purposeful. Small details — a weak line, a muddy recording, or a meandering intro — can cost you in a competitive field.
Judges disqualify entries for technical violations more often than you'd think. Follow every rule precisely — file format, song length, submission deadline, naming conventions, and any other specifications. Read the guidelines multiple times and double-check your submission before sending.
Many competitions ask for a brief description of your song. Use this opportunity to contextualize your work. Explain the inspiration, the theme, or what makes the song unique — but keep it concise and avoid overselling. A thoughtful description can pique a judge's interest before they even press play.
Don't put all your hopes in one contest. Submit to multiple competitions throughout the year. Each submission is a learning experience, and the more you enter, the better you understand what competitions look for. Even if you don't win, being a finalist provides credibility and exposure.
Songwriting competitions are valuable opportunities for growth, exposure, and recognition. By choosing the right contests, submitting polished material, and following guidelines precisely, you give yourself the best chance of standing out in a competitive field.
For help polishing your competition entries, Fast Rhymes provides tools to help you craft lyrics that impress judges and audiences alike.
27/10/2025
Everything you need to write songs & poetry.
