This is a cool thing. Songathon (an organization that sponsors songwriting contests) is putting on a Prompt Challenge: an online songwriting contest that prompts songwriters everywhere to write songs about social distancing to raise awareness and funds for COVID-19 relief efforts. (To that end, you can donate to contest partner GlobalGiving’s Coronavirus Relief Fund here.)
Here’s the gist: write a catchy song that revolves around a central theme of “distance.” Submit it to Songathon at this link (submissions cost a processing fee of $5.95 per song). It’s got to be a YouTube video – either a live performance or pre-recorded audio that can be put over a static image. Then cross your fingers that you win the sweet prizes.
Judges include Vérité, RuthAnne, and The Score. You can get their credentials and a bit of backstory at the link – basically, they’ve written a lot of good songs, sometimes for really famous people.
One last thing: if you’re having a hard time writing right now, that’s okay. I’ve talked to a lot of artists who are feeling the pressure to create something. We’ve got all of this isolation time and only eight episodes of Tiger King, after all, so it feels like the opportunity is there. But it’s a weird time and you’re probably more anxious than you realize. If you’re struggling to write, I’ve found that putting some external structure around you can help. This prompt can get you started.
But also have some grace for yourself.
So, that’s that. Oh, last thing: the deadline’s May 1st. All right. Now, go for it.
