The John Lennon Songwriting Contest is an international contest that was established by Yoko Ono in 1997.[1][2] It includes two different sessions that culminate in 72 Finalists, 24 Grand Prize Winners, 12 Lennon Awards, and one “Song of the Year”.[3] The contest has 12 different categories: Rock, Country, Jazz, Pop, World, Rhythm & Blues, Hip-Hop, Gospel, Latin, Electronic, Folk, and Children's.[4] Judges select winners from each of the categories, and then select one of those winners as the “Song of the Year”.[4]
All proceeds from the contest benefit the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus. The Bus is a non-profit mobile recording studio that travels across the U.S. to provide young people with free opportunities to create music, videos, and short films.[5]
In July 2020, the contest announced a new weekly opportunity, Power to the People, for songwriters to win home studio gear and instruments, and qualify for entry in the Songwriting Contest.[5]
References
- ^ "Didsbury seniors dedicate original song to Barbra Streisand and get her attention". ca.news.yahoo.com. Retrieved 2020-10-12.
- ^ "Imagine that: A song called 'Wash My Hands' has won a John Lennon award - The Boston Globe". BostonGlobe.com. Retrieved 2020-10-12.
- ^ Foreman, Lucy. "Local Teen Competing in Prestigious John Lennon Songwriting Contest". OffBeat Magazine. Retrieved 2020-10-12.
- ^ a b Reporter, India-West Staff. "Seattle-based Indian American Composer Wins 'World Music' John Lennon Award for Song, 'Akhiyaan'". India West. Retrieved 2020-10-12.
- ^ a b Desk, TV News. "John Lennon Songwriting Contest Launches 'Power To The People' With Weekly Giveaways". BroadwayWorld.com. Retrieved 2020-10-12.