Brownsville to host qualifying round of Tennessee Songwriters Week

Signups are officially open for songwriters to take part in the sixth annual statewide Tennessee Songwriters Week. For the past five years Brownsville and the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center have been host to a qualifying round for the state competition. Songwriters of all genres can sign up and compete for a chance to perform at iconic venues across the state, including the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville. The Delta Heritage Center qualifying event is scheduled for Saturday, January 27, from 1-5 pm.
Helmed by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Tennessee Songwriters Week supports music venues, provides songwriters with live performance opportunities, drives visitation and inspires travelers to experience the state’s music stories, history, attractions and venues. Since its inception, more than 3,500 songwriters have shared their original songs across Tennessee stages during the annual celebration in February.
Tennessee Songwriters Week, begins with qualifying rounds at nearly 50 participating music venues in late January. From there, select songwriters will move on to one of seven Tennessee Songwriters Week showcases. West Tennessee qualifying round winners will advance the showcase planned for Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis on February 18.
The showcases around the state highlight cities and regions that played a major role in the musical development of Tennessee across a diverse range of genres like blues, bluegrass, country, gospel, soul, rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll. One songwriter from each showcase will be chosen to perform at Nashville’s iconic Bluebird Cafe during a private event in March. Each of the finalists will also receive additional prizes, including a one-year membership to Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) and a commemorative Taylor guitar.
Songs will be judged by quality of the song (original lyrics/melody and clear narrative) and performance (ability to understand lyrics and connection with the audience). The 2024 Tennessee Songwriters Week official rules and qualifying round locations can be viewed online at www.tnvacation.com/songwriters-week