NSAI Announces Winners Of 21st Annual Song Contest

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The Nashville Songwriters Association International held its 21st Annual Song Contest, welcoming aspiring songwriters from around the world to enter their songs and/or lyrics for a chance to win, on Feb. 16.

The contest, which was presented by Martin Guitars, Strings and CMT, had nearly 2,500 entries. After several rounds of judging, a total of 22 songs placed in the contest following the final judging by a panel that included Jacqueline Renner, CEO of C.F.Martin & Co., Leslie Fram, Senior VP of Music & Talent at CMT, Tim Hunze, Senior Director of Creative at Anthem Entertainment, and NSAI Board President Steve Bogard.  “I Do” by Matthew Soileau (co-written by Brandon Chase) won the coveted top prize.

Matthew Soileau

Soileau, who hails from Spring, TX, took home $5,000 cash, mentor sessions with Tenille Townes and songwriters Ross Golan and Joe London, and a one year single-song contract with Anthem Entertainment along with several other prizes, including a brand new Martin Guitar.

Claire Bunnik from Pefferlaw, Ontario, Canada won the contest’s Lyric-Only category with her entry “Raising A Son,” winning a mentor session with Grammy-winning songwriter-artist Brett James, $2,000 cash, a Martin Guitar and more.

The other nine finalists also won a Martin Guitar, an industry meeting, and one year of NSAI membership. Every contest entry also has a scorecard evaluation from the judging that will be sent out to participants.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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