NEWS RELEASE
CRAFTING STORIES THROUGH SONGS: SIGNUPS OPEN FOR TENNESSEE SONGWRITERS WEEK 2026
Kingsport, Tenn. – Signups are now open for songwriters to take part in the eighth annual statewide Tennessee Songwriters Week. Songwriters of all genres can sign up to perform in qualifying rounds all over Tennessee and compete for a chance to play their original music at iconic venues across the state, including The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville. Kingsport’s qualifying round takes place on Wednesday, February 4 at 6 p.m. at Model City Tap House. Songwriters can click here to sign up to compete.
In 2026, the program will celebrate more than 6,000 songwriters who have shared their original music on Tennessee stages since the program launched. Tennessee Songwriters Week 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.
In celebration of the craft that helped put Tennessee on the map, Tennessee Songwriters Week begins in late January with qualifying rounds taking place at more than 60 participating music venues throughout the state. Venues include cafes, listening rooms, breweries, distilleries, museums and historic theaters. From there, select songwriters will move on to one of seven Tennessee Songwriters Week showcases, one of which will be hosted in Kingsport on February 23 at The Reserve.
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 finalist 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).
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 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.
