“Nashville Needs A Song” Winners Announced

Nashville Mayor John Cooper has announced the winners of the Nashville Needs A Song COVID-19 songwriting competition, a joint initiative between the Nashville Songwriters Association (NSAI), the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp., and the Mayor’s office, to uplift Nashvillians during the coronavirus pandemic.

“We Will Survive,” from Ryan Kinder and Justin Morgan, was chosen by NSAI as the “Songwriters Choice.” “Looking Up,” penned by Jesse Labelle, Rob Crosby and Jamie Moore, was selected via Nashville residential voting as the “Fan Favorite.”

“For generations, Nashville songwriters have played a vital role in telling the stories and creating the intricate melodies that encourage us all through difficult times,” said Mayor Cooper. “I’m grateful to all the contestants of the ‘Nashville Needs a Song’ competition. The winning songs remind us that we are ‘Nashville Strong’ and will continue to push forward, in solidarity, through any challenge that comes our way.”

Over 100 songwriters submitted entries, with the top three songs selected by NSAI to participate in Nashville’s “Fan Favorite” competition. While “Looking Up” took first place, “Times Like These” by Conner Sweet, Lance Carpenter, and Liz Hengber won second place, and “We Will Survive” took third.

“I am so proud of the quality of songs submitted for ‘Nashville Needs a Song,’” said Bart Herbison, Executive Director of Nashville Songwriters Association International. “They were inspiring, uplifting, and met the goal of utilizing music to help us navigate the coronavirus pandemic. Thanks to all of the songwriters who joined in this exercise.”

Winning songs may be used by the city and NCVC as part of marketing initiatives. Writers and their publishers will retain all future rights to their songs.