Al Johnson Performing Songwriter Contest

The 2025 award-winning Al Johnson Performing Songwriter Contest encourages the growth of the art of independent performing songwriters in the genres of Americana, Blues, Celtic, Country, Folk, Rock, Pop, Rap, Jazz, Bluegrass, etc. For over 20 years the contest has created an experience for finalists that provides networking opportunities amongst some of the top songwriters in the nation, live performances at the festival over the course of the weekend, and the chance to be a part of an historical experience.  Previous contest finalists include Ruthie Foster, Beth Wood, Karen Mal, Grace Pettis, Dave Carter, Louise Mosrie, BettySoo, Matt Harlan, Nicolette Good, RJ Cowdery, Drew Kennedy, Matthew Thomas and Tom Faulkner. Judging is based on originality, lyrics, melody, harmonic structure, and other song-craft elements.

How to Enter

• Complete the online application through Broadjam (please read contest rules before applying)
• $30 entry fee
• Two songs are required per entry fee
• Deadline to apply was March 9, 2025.

Prize Package(s) Include

• First Place/Grand Prize – $1,000
• Second Place Runner Up – $500
• People’s Choice Award – $500
• One-year premium membership to Broadjam (valued at $200) to each of the top 3 finalists

Contest Rules

• Participants must be at least 18 years old.
• Contestants are required to enter two original songs. (Entries containing only one song, or more than two songs will be disqualified).
• Recordings submitted must be representative of the artist’s live performance and include only one instrument, one voice (the songwriter’s vocal) and no backup harmonies. Instrumental-only songs are NOT accepted.
• Co-written songs are accepted; however, only one of the writers may submit an application and perform the song on the recording.
• A submission of the entry certifies that the songwriter has all rights to the songs and that the songs have not been sold or contractually assigned to another entity.
• Songs that have been previously recorded and released under contract on a label are NOT eligible.
• Each song must NOT exceed five (5) minutes.
• As a finalist, you must perform the two (2) songs submitted in the contest. You may choose to perform solo or invite a single accompanist, however the performance can only include one instrument, one voice (the songwriter’s vocal) and no backup harmonies.
• A total of ten finalists will be selected and invited to perform in the finals at Wildflower! on May 17, 2025, an additional set on the CityLine Stage, and if selected as a winner a chance to play a set in the round on May 18, 2025 on the Singer Songwriter Stage.