Songwriting contests have always been a valuable way for songwriters to gain exposure, build confidence, and sometimes jumpstart their careers. In 2025, these contests continue to offer exciting opportunities for songwriters at every level. I’ve spent time researching and participating in several contests over the years, and I want to share the most worthwhile songwriting contests worth entering in 2025.
In this article, I’ll cover contests that provide fair judging, meaningful prizes, and real chances to get your songs heard by industry professionals. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these contests can boost your songwriting journey.
Why Enter Songwriting Contests?
Entering contests might feel intimidating at first, but the benefits are worth it. I see contests as a chance to challenge myself, get feedback, and connect with other songwriters. Winning or placing can open doors to publishing deals, collaborations, or sync licensing opportunities.
Plus, contests push you to complete songs and polish your craft under deadlines. That kind of discipline is invaluable.
Indie Song Contest
The Indie Song Contest is a international song contest and a well-respected community of singer/songwriters. You can enter your songs into the contest at http://indiesongcontest.com.
Indie Song Contest has been around since 2008 and has multiple genres that songwriters can enter. They also offer one-off categories on occasion or upon request. They have cash prizes, as well, for the top 3 places in each genre category.
It has a strong community feel while also providing education, judging, and critiques from well respected industry professionals.
International Songwriting Competition (ISC)
The International Songwriting Competition is a respected contest with a long history of discovering great talent. It offers cash prizes, exposure, and feedback from a panel of industry experts.
I appreciate ISC for its broad range of categories, from pop and rock to film and TV scoring. That means whatever your style, there’s a place for you. Submissions usually open in the fall, so planning ahead helps.
Winning ISC can lead to publishing deals or introductions to industry professionals, making it one of the top songwriting contests worth entering in 2025.
The John Lennon Songwriting Contest
Named after the legendary Beatle, this contest attracts thousands of entries annually. It offers two sessions each year and covers multiple genres.
What I like about the John Lennon Songwriting Contest is the emphasis on originality and artistry. Winners receive cash prizes, mentoring, and opportunities for their songs to be used in various media.
It also has a strong community feel, with feedback available for entrants. For anyone serious about songwriting, this contest is definitely worth the effort.
American Songwriter Lyric Contest
If your strength lies in writing compelling lyrics, this contest is a perfect fit. The American Songwriter Lyric Contest focuses on the art of storytelling and wordcraft.
I’ve found it helpful to enter contests that spotlight different songwriting elements. Even if you don’t win, receiving feedback or just the experience of crafting a strong lyric under contest rules sharpens your skills.
Winners often get featured in American Songwriter magazine and receive cash awards.
Unsigned Only Music Competition
Unsigned Only aims to spotlight independent artists and songwriters who aren’t signed to major labels. It’s a great platform to gain industry attention without needing a big team behind you.
The contest includes various categories like pop, rock, and electronic music. I like that Unsigned Only has a focus on discovery and development, which aligns with many independent songwriter goals.
Prizes include cash, studio time, and opportunities to perform at industry showcases, making it one of the songwriting contests worth entering in 2025.
Great American Song Contest
This contest has been running for over two decades and emphasizes recognizing songwriters across genres. It offers cash prizes, exposure, and entry into songwriting showcases.
I recommend the Great American Song Contest for its transparency and fair judging process. It’s also a good stepping stone for songwriters wanting to build credibility.
Submissions usually open early in the year, so it’s one to keep on your calendar.
International Acoustic Music Awards (IAMA)
For songwriters focused on acoustic and roots music, IAMA provides a unique opportunity to showcase your work.
The contest is judged by industry veterans and emphasizes musicality and songwriting craft. Winners receive cash prizes and international exposure.
If your music leans toward acoustic or folk, IAMA is among the top songwriting contests worth entering in 2025.
The UK Songwriting Contest
Open to songwriters globally, this UK-based contest offers several categories and prizes. It is judged anonymously by music industry professionals, which I appreciate for its fairness.
They also provide opportunities for winners to connect with publishers and labels, which can be a huge boost.
Entering contests like the UK Songwriting Contest broadens your reach internationally and exposes your music to diverse audiences.
SongDoor International Songwriting Competition
SongDoor is unique because it provides feedback on every entry, not just winners. I find this incredibly valuable for growth.
The contest has a variety of categories and a focus on developing songwriting skills. Winners receive cash prizes and promotion.
If you want constructive feedback alongside the chance to win, SongDoor is one of the songwriting contests worth entering in 2025.
The Unsigned Music Awards (UMA)
UMA celebrates unsigned musicians and songwriters with a focus on independent artistry. It’s a newer contest but gaining traction quickly.
The awards include public voting and a panel of judges, offering different paths to success.
Prizes include cash, gear, and exposure at major events. For independent songwriters looking to break through, UMA offers valuable opportunities.
The International Songwriting Competition for TV and Film
Specifically targeting sync opportunities, this contest helps songwriters place their work in commercials, TV shows, and films.
I appreciate contests focused on sync because they align with the growing market for music in visual media.
Winners often get direct connections to music supervisors and licensing deals, making this contest highly strategic for songwriters aiming at TV and film.
How To Maximize Your Chances in Songwriting Contests
Entering contests is just the first step. I’ve found that submitting your best, fully polished work is essential. Take time to master the recording quality and presentation.
Also, study each contest’s rules and tailor your submissions accordingly. Sometimes a song that fits perfectly in one contest won’t work as well in another.
Networking with other entrants and judges, attending showcases, and following up can also help extend the benefits beyond just the contest entry.
Final Thoughts
Songwriting contests worth entering in 2025 offer a powerful platform for exposure, growth, and career advancement. They push you to hone your craft and provide pathways to get your songs heard by industry insiders.
No matter where you are in your songwriting journey, participating in these contests can open unexpected doors. I encourage you to research each contest thoroughly, prepare your best material, and embrace the experience.
Your next big breakthrough could be just a contest submission away.
