Corpus Christi Songwriters (CCSW) holds Songwriting Contests throughout the year for Original Music–no covers!
Anyone is welcome/encouraged to submit original music–there is no exclusive region or home state/country requirement. All music genres are accepted, and we value the quality of the SONG itself (lyrics, music, etc) above ALL.
Submission Info and Guidelines
All Songs will be rated based on Uniqueness, Lyrics, Music/Melody, Cohesion, and overall Appeal.
NEW this year: There is a 2-song limit for all songwriters. If you submit more than one song, your top-rated song will be considered in the running for Round 2 Panelist considerations.
With this in mind: choose carefully and submit your best work!
Helpful Dos & Don’ts
- Media type: MP3
- Song Length Limit: 4 minutes
- Lyrics: Required (with translation) if not in English
- Production Value: Minimalist. Simplicity is key. Be sure we can hear and understand your lyrics and don’t get too caught up with the technical details 🙂
Tip: BEFORE you submit your song(s), take the time to listen to the files completely from beginning to end to make sure the audio file works properly.
- Links to listen online (Spotify, Bandcamp, Soundcloud, Social Media, etc.) or to a video on Social Media (including YouTube) are not accepted.
- WAV, protected AAC, MP4 filetypes are not accepted. There are many online file conversion sites that can help you convert your file to MP3.
- Songs longer than 4 min long will be stopped at the 4-minute mark. Exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Contest Committee.
Contest Timeline:
KICKOFF: Submissions Open July 1-31, 2025
Round 1
Contest Committee reviews and rates anonymized submissions based on: Uniqueness, Lyrics, Music & Melody, Cohesion and overall Appeal
Round 2
Final Panel Review by Guest Panelists with knowledge and experience in the Music Industry
Results
Winners will be notified prior to public announcement in September 2025
Round 2 Guest Panelists:
Prizes:
Prizes will be awarded to the TOP THREE SONGS — and may include cash prizes, a spot in the next Corpus Christi Songwriters Festival, gift cards, mini-recording sessions, and more–stay tuned for details!