July 11th, 2026
NewSong Music is now accepting original song entries for its 2026 NewSong Music Competition, presented by Citizen Vinyl. The program’s curated showcases have been a fixture in the national music scene since 2001. The competition finals, formerly staged in New York City at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, relocated to Asheville, N.C. in 2017.
All 2026 entrants are eligible to receive a 5% discount on their vinyl pressing projects at Citizen Vinyl, one of North America’s highest quality vinyl pressing facilities.
Eight finalists, selected from advance online submissions from across North America and beyond, will bring their musical magic to Asheville where they will perform, compete, and connect with one another. A panel of music industry judges will select one grand prize winner to receive a fully funded six-song EP, plus 300 vinyl records of the grand prize project pressed at Citizen Vinyl.
Past NewSong winners and standouts include Crys Matthews, Jobi Riccio, AC Sapphire, and Slow Runner. The 2025 Grand Prize Winner was Susan Anderson (Asheville, NC).
Discounted ‘Early Bird’ entries are now open (1 song: $25; 2 songs: $50; additional songs: $25 each).
Entry prices increase after Sunday, August 2, with the final deadline for submissions on Sunday, September 13, 2026 at 11:59 PM PST.
To submit your original music, visit newsong-music.com/contest. This year’s eight finalists are scheduled to be announced on Facebook, Instagram, our website blog, and newsletter on Friday, September 11, 2026.
The 2026 NewSong Music Performance & Songwriting Competition finale will take place in Asheville, NC, at The Grey Eagle on Sunday, October 25.
