Get ready for Tennessee Songwriters Week, an annual statewide celebration of the songwriters and the craft that shaped Tennessee’s rich musical history.
Helmed by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development since 2019, Tennessee Songwriters Week, held annually each February, supports music venues, provides songwriters with live performance opportunities, drives visitation and inspires travelers to experience the state's musical stories, history, attractions and venues.
Qualifying rounds begin in late January at more than 60 participating music venues from small towns to cities in every corner of the state. From there, select songwriters will advance to one of seven showcases during Tennessee Songwriters Week.
The showcase events highlight seven distinct musical regions that have played a major role in the musical development of Tennessee across a diverse range of genres including blues, bluegrass, country, gospel, soul, rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll. One of the seven showcases will take place here, at The Franklin Theatre!
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).
Former Tennessee Songwriters Week finalists include DEK of Hearts (famous for their breathtaking four-chair turn currently on NBC’s The Voice), Jon Wayne Hatfield (who recently signed with Big Machine Music and Red Creative Group), Maura Streppa (who just released her sophomore EP “The Skinnier Tapes”) and Memphis songwriter Rodrick Duran.
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development partners with The Bluebird Cafe, NSAI, music venues and local convention and visitors’ bureaus, chambers and partners across the state, all committed to ensuring songwriters can share their original work on stage with audiences and other writers. Follow the journey of these songwriters and join the fun by following @tnvacation, #tnsongwritersweek and #tnsoundsperfect on social media.