What is ISC?
The International Songwriting Competition (ISC) is an annual songwriting and music contest whose mission is to provide the opportunity for both aspiring and established songwriters to have their songs heard in a professional, international arena. ISC is designed to nurture the musical talent of songwriters on all levels, and promote excellence in the art of songwriting. Amateur and professional songwriters, musicians, bands, and solo performers are invited to participate. It doesn't matter whether you perform or write songs for a living or do it as a hobby – ISC is open to everyone. ISC has the most prestigious panel of judges of all the songwriting contests and music contests in the world, offering exposure and the opportunity to have your songs heard by the most influential decision-makers in the music industry.
What Are the Categories?
Categories include: AAA (Adult Album Alternative), AC (Adult Contemporary), Americana, Blues, Children's Music, Christian, Comedy/Novelty, Country, EDM (Electronic Dance Music), Folk/Singer-Songwriter, Hip-Hop/Rap, Instrumental, Jazz, Latin Music, Lyrics Only, Music Video, Performance, Pop/Top 40, R&B/Soul, Rock, Teen, Unpublished, Unsigned, and World Music. Entrants may submit as many songs as they wish - in the same category or in multiple categories. You can learn more about all of ISC's available categories for entry here.
When is the deadline to enter ISC?
ISC 2024
Early Bird: July 3, 2024 – $25
Does my song have to be an original song?
Yes, ISC only accepts original songs. So, songs that were written by someone else or a long time ago (in public domain) may not be considered original, even if they are rearranged. We do, however, accept songs that include some sampling of other songs (if used as background or filler) and parodies of songs (in the Comedy/Novelty category). Please do not send public domain songs that you have written lyrics to or rearranged (unless it's in the Comedy/Novelty category).
Can I enter my song(s) from a country other than the USA?
Yes, ISC accepts and welcomes entries from all over the world. ISC is one of the largest songwriting and music contests in the world and receives entries from over 140 countries.
What are my chances of winning if I live outside the USA?
ISC has the most international winners of any major songwriting or music contest. Approximately 50-60% of our winners are from outside the US.
Are there any age requirements to enter?
Anyone of any age can enter ISC, except the Teen category which requires the entrant to be 18 years old or younger on or before December 31, 2024.
How many songs can I enter?
There is no limit to the number of songs or categories you may enter into the songwriting contest.
How many categories can I enter my song(s) into?
You may enter as many songs as you want in different categories, or you may even enter as many songs as you want in the same category.
Am I allowed to enter if I'm a past winner?
Yes, ISC welcomes your entry.
What if my song does not fit exactly into a category?
Enter it into the category that it fits best in. A great song will stand out and be recognized even if it does not fit exactly into a specific category. The categories are a guide, not a rule. Please do not email us and ask us to pick a category for you. You know your songs better than we do, and it needs to be your decision. You are welcome to visit our winners page to review winning songs from the prior year's competition to help make your category selection.
Can I have another vocalist sing the song I wrote?
Yes, any vocalist can sing the song; it doesn't need to be the song author. Also, you may use any musicians you wish.
Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy privacy discloses the privacy practices for the International Songwriting Competition (ISC). This privacy notice applies solely to information ISC collects, uses, and shares about you.
What type of information do we collect and how do we do it?
When you enter ISC online or by mail, you will be required to register for the competition by providing several items of personal information, including a) your name, address, contact information, username, email address, password, and other registration information; b) transaction-related information, such as payment or account information; c) information about the song entered; d) information about co-owners of the songs you post, such as their names.
In order to process your entry, we require payment information (e.g., credit card number, PayPal account username, etc.) to complete the transaction. All payment processing is handled through secured third party connections and we do not store credit card information after entries have been processed.
At given times, ISC has affiliates (i.e., platform partners) that process entries for the competition. We work closely with our affiliates to ensure your information is collected and stored in compliance with industry standards. That said, you acknowledge and agree that we are not responsible for the collection and use of your information by third parties that are not under our control. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of each website, service, and application you use.
ISC may automatically collect certain technical information from your computer or mobile device when you visit the website, subscribe to the newsletter, register for the competition, and/or enter the competition. That information may include, but is not limited to a) your Internet Protocol address; b) your browser type, your operating system; c) the pages or content you view; d) the pages you view immediately before and after you access the website; e) unique identifiers associated with the devices you use to access the website; f) the URL that referred you to the website; and g) standard weblog information.
ISC may collect may collect this information using “cookies”. Cookies are small text files that the are saved on your computer or device and accessed when you return. Cookies can be used to recognize repeat visitors or how visitors interact with the website. If you do not want information collected through the use of cookies, most browsers allow you to deny or accept cookies. See your browser’s help menu for more information.
What do we use your information for?
Any of the information we collect from you may be used in one of the following ways:
How do we protect your information?
We implement a variety of security measures to maintain the safety of your personal information when you register and/or enter the competition. All supplied information is transmitted via Secure Socket Layer (SSL), but bear in mind that there is no method of transmission over the Internet or method of electronic storage that is 100% secure, and because of that, we cannot guarantee its absolute security.
Under what circumstances do we share this information?
We do not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer to outside parties your personally identifiable information. However, we may share the information we collect from you with various parties, including, but not limited to:
Where is this information processed?
We collect and process the information governed by this Privacy Policy subject to the laws of the United States, which may not provide the same level protection for your personal information as your home country. We may store the information in the United States, and the information may be available to the United States government or its agencies under a lawful order made in the United States. We may transfer your information outside the United States to our affiliates, business partners, and service providers located in other countries. You consent to the transfer of your information to such countries.
What choices do you have regarding data collected about you?
If your contact information changes, or you wish to inquire about the information we have collected about you, or you believe your right to privacy has been infringed upon in any way, please submit a request at support@songwritingcompetition.com.
You may “opt-out” of receiving marketing emails at any time by using the unsubscribe feature included in the emails or by emailing remove@songwritingcompetition.com.
If you do not want the information collected through the use of cookies, you can set your web browser to reject cookies from the Services. Each browser is different, so you should check your browser’s “Help” menu to learn how to change your cookie preferences.
Children’s information
Our services are not directed to, nor do we knowingly collect information from children under the age of 13. If you become aware that your child or any child under your care has provided us with information without your consent, please contact us at support@songwritingcompetition.com
Changes to this Privacy Policy
If we update this Privacy Policy, we will notify you by posting a new Privacy Policy on this page. We encourage you to review this Privacy Policy for any changes.
Contact us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our use of your information collected, please contact us at support@songwritingcomeptition.com
Does ISC accept Spoken Word songs?
Yes, since ISC does not have a specific category for Spoken word, it is recommended to enter Spoken Word songs into the Performance category.
What are the rules for entering a music video?
All videos must be original songs and the visual elements are added to the overall review. ISC accepts streaming links for music video entries. Whether it's YouTube, Vimeo, your website, or some other website - we'll go to the site and view it. All you have to do is write down the website link on the entry form. This makes it very easy.
What kind of jazz songs does ISC accept?
ISC accepts both instrumental jazz and jazz with vocals – everything from traditional jazz to avant-garde, standards to smooth jazz, swing, and more.
Do you accept parodies or stand-up routines in the Comedy/Novelty category?
Yes, we do (but make them funny!)...
Is there a maximum time length to an entered song?
No, you may enter songs of any time length.
How much does it cost to enter?
The price per entry varies over the course of the competition cycle (please check below for the current price point). For example, if the current fee is $25 and you enter one song in two categories, the fee is $50. If you enter two songs in one category the fee is $50. If you enter one song in three categories, the fee is $75. As you can see, each time you add a song or category, you will be charged an additional entry fee. ISC accepts PayPal, a personal check (if inside USA), money order, cash, Venmo, and all major credit cards.
Early Bird Deadline: July 3, 2024 – $25
Will ISC notify entrants that their entry has been received?
ISC sends out an email to all entrants notifying them that their entry has been received. However, as you know, email is not always 100% reliable, and sometimes is not received. This can happen for a variety of reasons: the email might be filtered out by a spam program (so check your junk mailbox), your server might be down, etc., etc. If your email address changes, please be sure to notify us, as email is the primary method ISC uses to communicate with entrants. If you do not receive any notification from ISC within a few weeks of sending out your entry, feel free to email support@songwritingcompetition.com or contact the ISC office at 615.251.4441 to verify receipt.
How and when will winners be notified?
All entrants will receive notification of the semi-finalists, finalists, and winners via email. Winners will be emailed and/or phoned. Please do not call the ISC office to inquire about winners as it will slow down the process. If you do not receive an email, please check the website for updated information. Semi-finalists and Finalists will be announced by February/March, and winners by April/May.
Does ISC give feedback?
ISC does not give feedback or a critique to entrants. Please do not ask for this service.
Does ISC notify entrants about the status of their entry during the process?
ISC will notify all entrants by email when their entry is received and also when it is listened to by the screening committee. Please be aware that all notifications are done via email and may end up in your junk mailbox, so please be sure to allow emails from ISC to be accepted. It is not ISC's responsibility if you do not receive notifications due to server or email issues.
What are the requirements for eligibility for the Teen category?
The only requirement is that all entrants in the Teen category must be 18 yrs. old or younger by December 31, 2024. If there are multiple songwriters, they must all adhere to this age requirement.
How Do I Know My Song Has Been Listened To?
Every song entered is reviewed by ISC's internal screening committee. Throughout the competition, ISC will email a 'listen to' confirmation email for every song submitted. Please note: as a rule, ISC does not provide feedback on the songs submitted. If you feel you did not receive a specific 'listen to' confirmation email, please check your junk or spam folder. You can also request an additional email be sent by emailing support@songwritingcompetition.com.
What kind of music can I enter into the Teen category?
You may enter any kind of original music (for example: rock, pop, folk, blues, jazz, country, instrumental, etc). You do not need to specify the genre of music on your application.
If I entered last year, can I enter again this year?
Yes, and you can enter either the same song(s) or new songs. Since we have many new judges this year, it will be "new ears" listening to your entries. We have had numerous instances where entrants have entered the same song from year to year with different outcomes.
Am I allowed to enter songs that have been entered into other songwriting competitions?
Yes, we welcome all songs, even if they have been entered (whether they won or not) into other songwriting competitions.
Do you have any specific instructions for a mail-in entry?
Please put all your songs on one CD. It is more affordable for you and easier for us. Please make sure the names of the songs are clearly marked on the CD. If you are sending a CDR, please put a piece of masking tape on the spine of the case and write your name in black magic marker. Use a regular-sized case, not an ultra-thin one. Use the same procedure if you are sending in a video. Also, please make sure that the entrant's name is clearly marked directly on the CD, CDR, or video. Finally, it will help us if you insert a track listing into the CD case.
I have entered my song, now what?
Every entrant will receive an order confirmation email after successfuly submitting payment. If you did not receive this email, please check your junk or spam folder. Additionally, every entrant will be emailed an official 'listen to' confirmation email once your song has been reviewed by ISC's screening committee. Please note, ISC does not provide feedback on the songs entered. If you require either of these emails be resent, please email support@songwritingcompetition.com
Do I have to enter recorded music or can I just enter sheet music?
It is necessary to enter recorded music except for the Lyrics Only category which is judged solely on the lyrics, no music. The Lyrics Only category is one of ISC's most popular category, making ISC one of the most prominant lyric songwriting contests in the world.
How do I enter lyrics only?
You can enter online or by mail. If by mail, please send in two copies of the lyrics typed or neatly written. They do not need to be accompanied by music, but if you prefer, you may also send in the song on CD. Do not include sheet music, chords, or any other kind of musical notation - only the lyrics. If the lyrics are in a language other than English, please include the English translation, if available. You do not need to specify the kind of music the lyrics are written for, but if you want to, that's fine with us. It will not affect the judging process in any way.
Does ISC own my song once I have entered it?
No, absolutely not. The entrant retains ALL rights to the songs, and ISC does NOT own the song or any rights to it.
May I enter a song that I wrote if the rights to it are owned by a publishing company?
Yes, you may enter all categories except for the Unpublished category which requires that the songwriter(s) own their own publishing rights.
May I enter a song that has been released before on a CD?
Yes, of course, as long as you own the rights to the song, or can get permission from the copyright owner.
May I shop a song to a record label or publishing company that has been entered into ISC?
Yes, of course. Since ISC has no ownership in any song entered, you may continue to do business as usual with any song entered into ISC. In fact, we encourage you to be proactive and do whatever you can to gain success with your songs.
If I am entering from outside the US, what type of payment do you accept?
We cannot accept a personal check if your bank is from outside the USA. However, we do accept bank checks, international money orders, credit cards, or PayPal if you enter online. Please do not send us personal checks with the word "US Funds" written in next to the amount. If you want to make a bank transfer or send funds with Western Union, please email info@songwritingcompetition.com for more information.
If I am Canadian, can I send in a personal check and just write in "US Funds" on the check?
We cannot accept personal checks with the words "US Funds" written in next to the amount. We only accept bank checks, international money orders, a credit card, or PayPal if you enter online.
How can I enter online?
ISC has its own online platform where you can easily enter your songs. You will register for an account, then log in, and upload enter your music. ISC accepts both mp3/m4a song uploads or streaming links. ISC also allows you to give us a URL where your song is, and we will go there to listen to it. Just go to our Enter Your Songs Now page and click the Online button - or click here.
What is the Peoples' Voice?
The Peoples' Voice is an additional way to win prizes and recognition. It is completely separate from the regular winners that are selected by ISC judges. Once ISC announces the finalists, their songs are put up on the website for a month, and the public is invited to vote for their favorite song. The finalist who receives the most votes wins a lot of great prizes, recognition, and kudos! Please note: Voting is allowed once a day from an unique email address. ISC will closely monitor the voting and will reserve the right to disqualify anyone who creates fake email addresses, buys votes, or in any way attempts to fraudulently submit votes. We expect voters to be honorable!
Do the judges listen to all the entries, or is there a screening process?
There is a screening committee that listens to all entries and selects the group of finalists which are then sent to the judges. The judges then select the winners from this group of finalists. The screening committee is comprised of ISC staff who are all qualified music business professionals with extensive experience in songwriting and music. ISC does not utilize any outside screeners. The screening process is carefully and respectfully implemented with the goal of selecting the best songs to send on to the judges.
How long has ISC been in existence?
ISC was founded in 2002. The founder of ISC, Candace Avery, has been in the music business for over 30 years and has founded other high-profile, annual events that foster and encourage new talent: NEMO Music Festival, the Boston Music Awards, Fall Fest in Boston, and others. She is also the co-founder of the Unsigned Only Music Competition.
What is the difference between the online entry platforms for ISC?
All online entry platforms charge the exact same fee to enter ISC. All platforms accept credit cards and PayPal for payment. No matter which platform you enter, your songs are given the same amount of consideration in the competition. Of course, ISC also has its own online platform, and you are welcome to enter directly through ISC. No matter which platform you use to enter, we are looking forward to hearing your songs!
Do you accept songs in languages other than English?
Yes, we accept song submissions in any language. If the lyrics of your songs are in a language other than English, please include the English translation, if available.