Every year, a nationwide competition called the Dolly Parton Songwriters Award is held to honor and promote up-and-coming musicians.
This esteemed award, which is available to budding composers in a variety of genres, offers financial support to launch or advance songwriting careers.
Benefits of the Award
Recipients of the Dolly Parton Songwriters Award enjoy the following benefits:
- Financial Support: A $20,000 grant to cover a range of career-related expenses, such as instrument purchases, recording costs, or professional development programs.
- Creative Freedom: Unlike many scholarships restricted to tuition costs, this grant allows recipients to use the funds flexibly for any career-related expenses.
- Prestige and Recognition: Winning this award boosts credibility and provides recognition in the competitive songwriting industry.
- Networking Opportunities: Award winners gain exposure to industry veterans, increasing opportunities for mentorship and collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Dolly Parton Songwriters Award, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be aged 17 to 24 as of February 15, 2025.
- Reside in the United States or its territories.
- Submit only one application per BMI Foundation awards program.
- Submit works that are not under contract with any major music publisher or record label.
- Have not previously won the Dolly Parton Songwriters Award or the Nashville Songwriting Scholarship.
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How Much Is the Dolly Parton Songwriters Award?
The award offers a generous $20,000 prize, split evenly between up to two winners.
Application Process & Deadline
- Songwriters must create and submit an original song in one of the eligible genres: Americana, blues, bluegrass, contemporary Christian, country, folk, or roots.
- Applications must be submitted through the BMI Foundation’s online portal.
- Provide proof of eligibility, including residency and age verification.
The deadline for this award is January 15, 2025.
All submissions must be received before the deadline.
Submission Guidelines for Co-Written Works
- For co-written entries, the following rules apply:
- Co-written works can have no more than three writers.
- All co-writers must meet the award’s eligibility requirements.
- One writer must act as the “songwriter of record” and apply.
- Awards will be split evenly among all co-writers.
It is important to note that only songwriters should be listed as co-writers—other contributors, such as performers or producers, should not be included.
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Conclusion
The Dolly Parton Songwriters Award is an exceptional opportunity for young songwriters to gain recognition and financial support for their work.
With a rich history of past winners judged by industry veterans and Grammy-winning artists, this award is a stepping stone for emerging talent in the music industry.
Whether you’re crafting a heartfelt ballad or an upbeat folk tune, the Dolly Parton Songwriters Award could help bring your creative vision to life.
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