(To enter, use Rules & Entry link above)

Frequently Asked Questions: 

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How long has the Great American Song Contest been around?

The first Great American Song Contest was held in 1999. Since then the annual songwriting event has established a reputation of integrity with songwriters, lyricists and composers worldwide.

Is this event open to songwriters outside the U.S.?

Yes. Songwriters, composers and lyricists around the world are invited to enter the Great American Song Contest. Prior winners of this event have come from the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Italy, Kazakhstan, Sweden and Belgium.

Do song lyrics need to be in English?

Lyrics may be in any language but please include an English translation whenever possible.

Are there different songwriting categories?

A total of nine different categories are provided, including an Instrumental category and a Lyric Only category for song lyricists.

For details see: Contest Categories

What if I have a song that doesn't seem to fit any specific category?

Just choose whichever category seems closest. A great song will never be passed over simply because it doesn't seem to fit a particular category. If judges feel a song will do better in a different category, they have the option to move it to that category during the final round of judging.

Do amateur songwriters compete with professionals?

No. Our event is open to amateur and semi-pro songwriters only — not professionals making over $5,000 in publishing royalties Most other contests draw no such distinctions.

For details see: Rules & Entry

Do I retain copyright protection on the songs I enter?

Yes. All songs and song lyrics are considered to be copyright-protected and ALL WRITERS RETAIN ALL RIGHTS TO THEIR WORK.

For details see: A Practical View of Copyrights

Is the performance and the quality of the recording important?

No. GASC judges focus on the song and the elements of songwriting — NOT on the the production, vocal performance or quality of the recording.

This is a key point. Many other contests are really talent contests, in the tradition of American Idol. They focus more on performance and less on the craft of songwriting.

What if a judge likes my song and wants to contact me personally?

Judges who are publishers, producers or recording artists are always looking for great songs and lyrics. If they hear material they're interested in, they can request the songwriter's name. At the end of the contest, we contact writers for permission to share their contact information with interested parties.

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What makes the Great American Song Contest a better choice than other songwriting competitions?

See: Ten Reasons This Contest Is Best

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How do I enter the Great American Song Contest?

There are several different ways to enter your songs, online or by mail. For details see: Rules & Entry

Do you accept credit cards?

Yes, we accept credit cards for online entries and money orders for mail entries. Payment for entry fees must be in US Dollars.

If I enter by mail, does it make any difference if I use regular mail or priority mail?

No, all that matters is that your entries are mailed on or before our annual postmark deadline. There's no need to pay extra for premium mail delivery.

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