ANNOUNCING THE TOP 30 SONGS OF THE YOUNG SONGWRITER 2023 COMPETITION #SAYS23

PRESS RELEASE


SAYS23 Star Judges include Fraser T Smith, Amy Wadge, Calum Scott, Plested, Miranda Cooper, GRACEY, Eg White, Jimmy Napes, Emily Phillips, Hannah V, Sodajerker, Sacha Skarbek, Dan Gillespie Sells, Janet Devlin & Simon Aldred.

Drumroll please! The top 30 songs of the hotly contested Song Academy Young Songwriter 2023 competition, in its 13th year, have now been revealed. This year’s competition attracted around 1,000 high quality entries from aspiring young songwriters aged 8-18 across the world, both experienced young songwriters and those who’ve written their first song.  62% of entrants were girls, 32% boys, 6% preferred not to say or had a unique gender identification. Entries were from across the entire UK/Ireland (71%) and around the world (29%).  The future of music is bright and diverse!

Emily Phillips, songwriter and lead judge of The Young Songwriter 2023 competition said “Another swift year has passed since the last Song Academy Young Songwriter Competition and nearly 1,000 songs for the 2023 entry have been listened to.  This years entries cover an enormous variety of sounds, styles, and lyrical invention. Unrequited love, family relations, social media, self identity and nature are common themes in the lyrics.  The songs vary from a simple guitar or piano accompaniment to full on production. My job is to discern the song beyond the performance and beyond the soundscape, which can be very difficult if the song is wrapped up in an irresistible way, and also hard if the presentation is poor.  There is no doubt that some great songs are inextricably bound to their sound which gives them the identity we gravitate to, so I hope the judges can be forgiven for loving a song partly because it sounds great.

I can only say that the judging process is not an exact science, and that mistakes will and can be made.  In much the same way that the Beatles were turned down by 4 record companies, I  will no doubt have inadvertently overlooked a great song. This may be because, some songs require many listens before you realise their secret magic.  Anyway, I’m trying to say that no writer in the competition should feel disheartened.   A song writer needs to write as many songs as possible, as often times, it’s in the proliferation that greatness comes. I also want to stress that the standard of some of the songwriting is astonishing, there is no match for the hubris of youth! 

Song Academy and the judges encourage all young songwriters to collaborate.  It’s fun, and can be a great way to connect with other like-minded young people.  Collaboration builds confidence and opens up a world of possibilities.  Song Academy is helping to build a community of the next generation of songwriters in the UK and around the world. What a fantastic organisation, I am very proud to be part of it.”

Listen to the top 30 songs on the Song Academy SoundCloud account!  Plus the top 30 songs and young songwriters are SHOWN BELOW. The International 8-12 year olds category will wait until the top 10 announcements as they had fewer entries.

The top 10 finalists of all categories will be announced on the 12th May.  The top 3 finalists will be announced on the 13th June. The UK/Ireland winners will be announced on Saturday 23rd September 2023 at The Young Songwriter 2023 live showcase held at The Tabernacle, Notting Hill, London.  The International winners will be announced at the online showcase on Sunday 24th September at 2pm GMT. Stay tuned to our social channels to hear the announcements first!

Fraser T Smith (songwriter, producer and SAYS23 judge) said “With so much going on in the world, it’s never been more vital for young people to be able to channel their energy and emotions into something positive, which is what The Young Songwriter competition encourages and facilitates through songwriting. Every young person has something to say, a story to tell, or a message to share – that’s why Song Academy is so important to our community.”

Rowena Atkins, Founder of Song Academy said: “The Young Songwriter competition stands for the craft and art of songwriting in its purest form, enabling young songwriters to aspire to the very best melody, lyric, structure, concept, harmony, mood and impact a song can have. We are looking for originality, creativity and musical bravery. We’re a supportive community where young people express themselves freely, get their songs heard and connect to like-minded young people. The benefits from this unique community are far reaching, especially the positive boost to mental health.”

The next opportunity for young songwriters aged 11-18 in the UK/Ireland is our new residential Summer songwriting camp from 9th to 12th August 2023, near Guildford, UK. There are a limited number of places available so please contact us soon.

Next opportunities for schools are for Song Academy to run songwriting workshops for Leavers (academic years 6 and 13) to write a song about their time at school & looking ahead to the future. In addition to the positive experience of writing a song together encapsulating their time at school & thoughts of the future, we can create a backing track and full track for schools to use for promotions and Leavers to have as a memento!

Official sponsors of The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2023 competition are YouTube Music, Yamaha, Soundtrap, Focusrite, PRS for Music and ICMP.

CATEGORY:  UK/IRELAND, 16-18 YEAR OLDS * TOP 30

A HUNDRED YEARS – LILY CLARKE

A THERAPY SESSION IN NORTH CAROLINA – ISLA MAE

ARE YOU OKAY? – MAGGIE WAKELING

BEAUTY – MATT JONES

CRYSTAL CHANDELIERS – AMITY MILLER

DEAREST ONE – SEAN TRELFORD

HARP – SHAAN BHASKAR

HEARTBREAK? – FAITH LOUISE

HOMETOWN – ROSE MOLYNEUX & OWEN FRANCIS BLACK

HYMN FOR THE HOMESICK KIDS – TAMARA HENDIN

I’M NOT ALONE – THOMAS WIGLEY

IT’S NOT TOO LATE – RALPH BISHOP

JUST YOU AND ME – COLE LAM

LAZY – SOPHIE FERIANI

LITTLE GIRL – RUBE

MILESAWAY – CHINKZ

PEOPLE MADE FROM STARS – SASHA FORD

SELF ESTEEM – JOE GOODALL

SET ME ON FIRE – ROE BYRNE

SPARE ROOM – LILLY MAE CHANDLER

STARRY – RAINE HARLA

TESCO – EVE COLE

TTF – JS STARZ

UNTITLED – MANGSAM SENEHANG

VILLAIN ERA – EVA DONOGHUE

WATCHING – SIRINE

WHAT YOU’D WANT – ABBIE GORDON

WHO AM I TO TELL – ERIN O’SULLIVAN & OLLIE

WILD OUT AT SEA – ELIZA LOVISE

YOU ARE THE LIGHT – ADAM O’CONNOR, ARLO REDMAN

CATEGORY:  UK/IRELAND, 13-15 YEAR OLDS * TOP 30

ANOTHER TIME – IOLA CAMPBELL

BACKGROUND GIRL – MADDIE INSTONE

BE WHO YOU WANNA BE – LOIS BROOKS

BY YOUR SIDE – ARNAV MERVE, RAVI KAMATH, ARJUN RAMANI

CENTRAL LINE TO TOWN – MIA WILKS

DOING IT FOR CLOUT – KACIA

DOORS – CHARLIE RYAN

DRIVING SEAT – ELI CROSSLEY

FINE TOTALLY  – ROWAN ADDY

FOURTEEN – SKYE BISHOP

FRAUD – DANIEL MACKIN

HONEYSIDE – TITO WILEY

IF YOU WERE… – MAYONNAISE

INSIDE AND OUT – NEVAEH

JOHNNY SOMEONE – WOODY COLLINS

LAST TRAIN TO THE COAST – JOSEPH DAVIS

LITTLE GIRL – EMILY GASKELL

LOST IN THOUGHTS – MAYA MARTIN

LOVE RAMPAGE – MACY O

OCTOBER BOY – BAILEY BRITT

ONE OF A KIND – SAMUEL KHANNA

PATHOLOGICAL LIAR – ELIZABETH EHINFUN

PROMISES AND REGRETS – STUART VEITCH

PURPLE – LUCY HANSON

SILVER BIRCH – JEANNE MARIE MARAIS

TAKE ME HOME – SHANELLE RUDRIGO

THE LETTER – BRADÁN PEACOCK

THERE’S THIS PLACE – JOHNNY BEAU

THESE DAYS – ECHO

WALKING IN THE RAIN – BEN GUTHRIE

CATEGORY: UK/IRELAND 8-12 YEAR OLDS * TOP 30

10 RULES – KIDS OF ORION

ANY OTHER DAY – MAX MARNHAM

BACKSTAGE GUY – HALLUCINATIONS

BRAND NEW – SHOLTO

CAT LAWS – AGNES BULL

CRYSTAL CLEAR – CRYSTALS

DAYDREAMS – ROBYN JONES

GROWING UP IS EASY – FLORENCE

H.O.P.E – ISLA HANNETT

HOLD ONTO YOUR BRANCHES – 12 DEERS

I AM FREE – OTTILIE WALLACE

I’LL GO ON AN ADVENTURE – ELISA MCEVOY

JUST THE WAY IT IS – THEA WARD

KING FOR A DAY – FRANKIE MORLAND

KNEBWORTH – KIT BOTTOMLEY

LONDONERS – BLACK SHEEP BLUES

MONDAY – LIZZIE

MY SONG – GEORGIA RUSSELL

REACH FOR THE STARS – WILLIAM TYNDALE PRIMARY SCHOOL

ROCKET SHIP – ROBBIE HOPE

SHY FELLOW – HENRY MARNHAM

STRANGER – MILO DELLAL, NIKOLAI GRLICA, ERIK LANGRAN

SUNFLOWER – ELEANOR ROSE HANSON

THAT’S WHERE I’LL BE – EMILY FINE

THE FUTURE’S HAPPENING – OREGON

TRIAL OF TRUST – ALEXANDER YIJIAN WANG

UNFORGIVABE – REBECCA ALESHA AND MADELINE

WAIT – OLGA FITZPATRICK

WHAT A DAY – FINN CRABTREE

WORDS – EVIE MITCHELL

CATEGORY:  INTERNATIONAL, 13-18 YEAR OLDS * TOP 30

(I LIKE YOUR) GREEN EYES BABY – ANDREI SERBAN

AIR – JESSI JOY VILLA

ARE YOU GONNA LOVE ME? NOAH ROBERTSON

ASHES – AVA GRACE

BEE-SIDE – JAKE MURDOCH

BILLBOARD CITY – SUMMER BRENNAN

BLESSING – JOSH DIONISIO

BURNIN UP – CLAUDIA MATEOS

COINCIDENCE – LINDSAY LIEBRO

CYAN – PEDRO GIOMO

DECEMBER – CLAIRE KETELHOHN

FIRE – MIA BENITA

HAND – FREDERIC THESIGER

JELLYMAN – SWAGSOCKS

KEEP MOVING – MIA MASSY AND FAYE JOHNSON

LAST DAY BEING 17 – VICKY GAO

OAK TREE – JAYDEN POPE

OCTOBER – JOEY WILBUR

PUPPY LOVE – RAE

SHIVER – RUBY ARCHER

SLIP AWAY – SCARLETT ELISE

SO HARD – LINA SKALLI

START AND END – XINTIAN (DIANA) JI

THAT TINY HOUSE IN MY BRAIN – SOFIA KEMPA

THIN ICE – FELICIA HOLMEN

THIS – UNA ROULSTON

TOXIC – HARRY TOWBIN

WAITING IN LINE – SEASIDE FEELS

WHITE LIE – SOUTH

YOU DON’T KNOW ME – MALAIKA WAINWRIGHT

NOTES TO THE EDITORS – SONG ACADEMY OVERVIEW

Founded 14 years ago, Song Academy is dedicated to the future of music and the wellbeing of young people aged 8-18. Our mission is to help children from all backgrounds find their voice and find their tribe, through writing their own original songs at a formative time of their life. We nurture young writers, artists, musicians, producers and creative thinkers, empowering young people to achieve their full potential and shape their future.

Our focus is on the craft of songwriting, creating lyrics and music. We believe that songwriting and music can transform the lives of young people. Young people are growing up in a competitive, fast-changing and potentially isolating environment, leaving them vulnerable to various pressures and issues with their mental health. Songwriting enables young people to communicate their thoughts and feelings and connect to others. Through this creative and therapeutic process, they can discover their identity, overcome challenges, feel empowered, and advance their general writing and social skills. Not only can the songs they write advance potential musical careers, but also spark debate, build connection with peers and shape their future.

Song Academy runs after-school clubs, holiday workshops, school workshops, birthday parties, a Summer residential songwriting camp and an annual international Young Songwriter competition. As a result of our programmes, we have seen an increase in confidence, self-esteem, creativity, motivation, well-being and technical songwriting ability of our members.

Email: rowena@songacademy.co.uk. Tel: 07710 023743

Sparking ideas for new songs

At Song Academy we use interesting songwriting briefs for our aspiring young songwriters to spark ideas for new songs.  Here are some ideas for starting new songs both starting with lyrics and starting with music.

 

Ideas for starting lyrically

  • Start from thinking about what’s important to you – certain people, social movements, events, activities, feelings etc.
  • Start from words/phrases that you hear a lot. Write a song inspired by a word or phrase that a lot of people say in everyday life – but not many people have sung about.  Perhaps something that your parents/ grandparents/teachers always say to you or words/phrases that your friends say/you hear on TV shows or social media.
  • Start from a title – Select 5 things in your bedroom i.e bed, chair, window, guitar, books – and then turn them into interesting song titles. For example: Bed – Safe Haven, Chair – Where I’ll Stay, Guitar – Broken Strings, Books – Read All About It.
  • Start from a quote – Find a quote you like. For example: “It is never too late to be what you might have been”, “an obstacle is often a stepping stone”, “to avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing”, “your only limitation is your imagination”.
  • Write a song inspired by the question “What if?”  This could be a “What if?” about your own life, thinking forwards to the future or asking a “What if” about a significant decision you have made. It could also be simply imagining another world, a dream coming true.  Think about your interests, what would you have fun writing about? Or is there something you would be fascinated to imagine and describe?  Think about historical events that have had a massive impact on the world (9/11, WW2). What could the world look like if these events had not occurred?
  • Song to self idea for a song. Write a song to yourself in a different stage of your life. This can be you talking to yourself in the past or the future. Decide whether you want to write the song in letter form, conversational (as if you are talking to someone else) or in the third person narrative (a story). Think about what you would love to say to yourself as a child and an adult, would there be any warnings you would like to give? Or reassurances? Do you want to give yourself some advice? Think about something that has had a profound impact on you or shaped you in some way. This can be positive or negative. What would you say to yourself? You could free write around this if you are stuck.

Ideas for starting musically

  • Start from a bassline – Listen to ‘Uptown funk’ by Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson.  The bass line can be the hookiest part of the song in some occasions – think about the simplicity that is needed, the importance of rhythm (the bass and drums work so closely together in bands to achieve the best sound). The bassline has also rhythmic and harmonic importance it helps the listener feel the beat/pulse and add a groove/funk/atmosphere to the song.
  • Start from a chord progression – Choose a key for your song and choose one of the three chord progressions, perhaps start with the key of C, E, F or G. Play your chords and improvise different melodies for your lyrics. Try these three main chord progressions:
    • I, IV, V (Which is C, F, G when played in the key of C Major)
    • I, V, VI, IV (C, G, Am, F in C Major)
    • I, VI, II, V (C, Am, Dm, G in C Major)

Have fun writing your songs!  It’s also a great idea to collaborate with musical & creative friends to develop your songs.

We’re looking forward to listening to your songs in The Young Songwriter 2023 competition!  The entry period is the 1st February to 31st March 2023.

Click here for all information on The Young Songwriter 2023 competition.

Christmas songwriting workshops – why do parents love their children writing their own songs with us?

Calling all young people who love music, singing & writing lyrics!  Join our songwriting workshops during the Christmas holidays.  It’s a perfect opportunity, in a condensed time frame, to write an original song with professional songwriters.  Groups for beginner to advanced young songwriters aged 8-18.  Get creative & express yourself!

Our holiday songwriting workshops are a perfect opportunity, in a condensed time frame, to write an original song with professional songwriters. Participants will develop their lyrical & musical skills with new ideas and techniques.  They will develop their confidence and ability to express themselves…as well as meeting other like-minded young creatives and having a lot of fun!

Small groups for beginners and those already writing their own songs and wanting some inspiration/guidance.

Here are some of the reasons why parents love their children taking part in our songwriting workshops.

  • My child already loves writing her own songs in her bedroom and really benefits from the guidance and inspiration from Song Academy to make her songs the best they can be.
  • My child loves singing and loved the challenge to develop her skills and write her own songs to sing.
  • My child has been a fantastic singer, but his voice is starting to break and writing his own songs filled the void of not singing as much.
  • My child is learning a musical instrument but isn’t that motivated to practice her grade pieces. Writing her own songs and accompanying herself brings her instrument to life and it’s played a lot more.
  • My child loves music and really enjoyed the freedom of writing her own lyrics and making up melodies.  She now writes songs the whole time.
  • My child was super shy and writing her own songs in a supportive & nurturing environment has given her a boost of confidence and she’s proud of what she has to say through her songs.

More information and how to book a place.

Spotlight on the Reggaeton song genre

The aim of our spotlights on different song genres is to make it easy for Music teachers to bring to life the different contemporary music styles.  In addition, for English teachers to have the knowledge and a great instrumental track for pupils to write song lyrics in a style of music they choose.

Reggaeton is a music style that originated in Puerto Rico during the mid-1990s and is now regarded as one of the most popular music genres in the Spanish-speaking Caribbean. Over the 2010s the genre has increased in popularity across Latin America, as well as acceptance within mainstream western music and nowadays the grooves of Reggaeton are used in many crossovers with other mainstream styles like RnB, Hip Hop and Pop music.

We’ve looked at some of the key features of instrumentation, rhythm & beat and chords & harmonies in Reggaeton songs.  Plus we’ve selected some Reggaeton songs to have a listen to.  Pupils can use our demonstration instrumental track to write their lyrics & melodies over.

Instrumentation
Reggaeton comes from music styles that used mainly acoustic instruments, drums, guitars, percussions. But with the influence of western electronic music, Reggaeton which is meant for dancing in clubs, blends synths sounds with more percussive traditional instruments. It is also common to hear some acoustic guitars and sometimes even horn sections.

Rhythm and Beat
Typical is the drum beat with the kicks going “4 on the floor” like in a EDM beat but with the snare playing more syncopes (syncopated rhythm). The guitar, accordion or piano sometimes play the typical reggae “Skunk” which is about playing all the “off-beats”. The rhythms are generally accompanied with a lot of percussions like shakers and congas that add fills and dynamics.

Chords and Harmonies
The roots of Reggaeton are close to folk-music but at the same time, it wants to get modern and trendy. That is why there are some songs that use traditional chord progressions while others sounds more pop. But reggaeton is also loved in RnB where we use more colourful jazz chords.

Demonstration instrumental track
You can use our demonstration instrumental track below to have a go at putting your lyrics and melodies over a Reggaeton style instrumental.  The Demo instrumental has a typical medium dance Reggaeton groove.  The song structure of this instrumental track is

Intro x4
Verse x8
Prechorus x8
Chorus x8
2nd Verse x8
2nd Prechorus x8
Chorus x8
Outro x4

SONG REFERENCES

The following references are here to help you understand the classic Reggaeton sound but also different crossovers possibilities.

DESPACITO – LUIS FONSI
This classic has almost 8 billions views on Youtube. It’s a typical Reggaeton song with acoustic instruments like guitars and traditional percussions.

MI GENTE – J BALVIN, WILLY WILLIAM
Another big hit for Reggaeton using sampling, electronic drums and percussions.

LOOSE MY COOL – AMBER MARK
This is an RnB song but using Reggaeton´s beat. It’s a very trendy crossover that uses jazzy harmonies, soulful vocals and Latinos rhythms.

DINERO – JENNIFER LOPEZ
An great crossover between Reggaeton and Hiphop mainly electronically produced but using samples.

DON’T GO YET –
CAMILA CABELLO
This is a pop song but with a rich production blending Reggaeton beats with Salsa elements. You can recognise the traditional instruments like the piano, the guitars, the choir.

Click here to explore more of our songwriting resources for Teachers.

Information on The Young Songwriter 2023 competition, entry period 1st February to 31st March 2023

The Young Songwriter 2022 live showcase highlights video

The winners & top finalists of The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition, UK/Ireland category, plus VIP guest artists performed, their original songs at the iconic Tabernacle in Notting Hill, London. Be inspired by our highlights video!

The Young Songwriter 2023 competition is open for entries from the 1st February to the 31st March 2023. Get your songs ready! Check out our songwriting programmes (clubs, workshops, song feedback) to help you write your best song yet!

Winners of The Young Songwriter 2022 competition

The Young Songwriter 2022 competition gives the unheard youth a voice and platform to express themselves and be heard. The standard of finalist songs entered this year was exceptionally high. To select the winners we listened for inventiveness, creativity & bravery with lyrics & melodies illuminating our imaginations, as well as the overall impact of the song. The future of music is bright and diverse.

SAYS22 Star Judges include Tom Grennan, Amy Wadge, Miranda Cooper, Tom Odell, Eg White, Jimmy Napes, Emily Phillips, Plested, Hannah V, Sodajerker, Sacha Skarbek, Calum Scott, Dan Gillespie Sells, Janet Devlin, Simon Aldred & Grace Davies

Drumroll please! The winners of the hotly contested Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition, in its 12th year, have now been revealed. This year’s competition attracted an impressive 852 high quality entries from aspiring young songwriters aged 8-18 across the world, both experienced young songwriters and those who’ve written their first song.

The Young Songwriter competition stands for the craft and art of songwriting in its purest form, enabling young songwriters to aspire to the very best melody, lyric, structure, concept, harmony, mood and impact a song can have. It inspires young people to think about and speak up about things that are important to them personally, in their community and in the wider world and get their voices heard. It’s a supportive community where young people feel brave and can express themselves, celebrate individuality and be themselves. The benefits from this unique community are far reaching, especially the positive boost to mental health.

What makes a sensational song is ultimately subjective. The winners’ songs were selected as they stood out for their creativity, invention & courage with lyrics & melodies illuminating our imaginations as well as the overall impact of the song. Congratulations also go to all SAYS22 finalists and our vibrant community of young songwriters around the world.

Fraser T Smith (songwriter, producer and SAYS21 judge) said “With so much going on in the world, it’s never been more vital for young people to be able to channel their energy and emotions into something positive, which is what The Young Songwriter competition encourages and facilitates through songwriting. Every young person has something to say, a story to tell, or a message to share – that’s why Song Academy is so important to our community.”

As well as The Young Songwriter competition, Song Academy run songwriting clubs in term time, songwriting workshops in the holidays, song feedback reports, recording & production workshops, bespoke songwriting workshops & birthday parties.

Official sponsors of The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition are YouTube Music, Yamaha, Soundtrap, Focusrite, PRS for Music, IK Multimedia, ICMP and Orange Learn.

UK/IRELAND, 13-18 YEAR OLDS WINNER: SISI 

UK/IRELAND, 8-12 YEAR OLDS WINNER: JOHNNY BEAU

INTERNATIONAL, 13-18 YEAR OLDS WINNER: JOEY WILBUR

INTERNATIONAL, 8-12 YEAR OLDS WINNER: EVA STEINERT

SAYS22 Official Partners include First News, Amazing Radio, BMI, Ivors Academy, FAC, SoundCity, AOC, MUSIC:ED, The Troubadour, Sing Up & Fun Kids Radio

NOTES TO EDITORS:

SONG ACADEMY – helping every child find their voice and find their tribe

Founded 13 years ago, Song Academy is dedicated to the future of music and the wellbeing of young people aged 8-18. Our mission is to help children from all backgrounds find their voice and find their tribe, through writing their own original songs at a formative time of their life. We aim to take them from their first song to developing their first album. We nurture young writers, artists, musicians, producers and creative thinkers, empowering young people to achieve their full potential and shape their future.

We are the leading platform for young songwriters.  Our focus is on the craft of songwriting, creating lyrics and music. We believe that songwriting and music can transform the lives of young people. Young people are growing up in a competitive, fast-changing and potentially isolating environment, leaving them vulnerable to various pressures and issues with their mental health. Songwriting enables young people to communicate their thoughts and feelings and connect to others. Through this creative and therapeutic process, they can discover their identity, overcome challenges, feel empowered, and advance their general writing and social skills. Not only can the songs they write advance potential musical careers, but also spark debate, build connection with peers and shape their future.

Song Academy runs after-school clubs, holiday workshops, school workshops, birthday parties and an annual international Young Songwriter competition. As a result of our programmes, we have seen an increase in confidence, self-esteem, creativity, motivation, well-being and technical songwriting ability of our members.

Email: rowena@songacademy.co.uk. Tel: 07710 023743

ORIGINALITY • CREATIVITY • COURAGE • INDIVIDUALITY • SELF ESTEEM • INSPIRATION • RESILIENCE • CONNECTION • RESPECT

Announcing the top 3 finalists in The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition

The Young Songwriter 2022 competition gives the unheard youth a voice and platform to express themselves and be heard. The standard of finalist songs entered this year was exceptionally high. To select the top 3 songs we listened for inventiveness, creativity & bravery with lyrics & melodies illuminating our imaginations, as well as the overall impact of the song. The future of music is bright and diverse.

SAYS22 Star Judges include Tom Grennan, Amy Wadge, Miranda Cooper, Tom Odell, Eg White, Jimmy Napes, Emily Phillips, Plested, Hannah V, Sodajerker, Sacha Skarbek, Calum Scott, Dan Gillespie Sells, Janet Devlin, Simon Aldred & Grace Davies

Drumroll please! The top 3 finalists of the hotly contested Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition, in its 12th year, have now been revealed. This year’s competition attracted an impressive 852 high quality entries from aspiring young songwriters aged 8-18 across the world, both experienced young songwriters and those who’ve written their first song.

The Young Songwriter competition stands for the craft and art of songwriting in its purest form, enabling young songwriters to aspire to the very best melody, lyric, structure, concept, harmony, mood and impact a song can have. It inspires young people to think about and speak up about things that are important to them personally, in their community and in the wider world and get their voices heard. It’s a supportive community where young people feel brave and can express themselves, celebrate individuality and be themselves. The benefits from this unique community are far reaching, especially the positive boost to mental health.

What makes a sensational song is ultimately subjective. The top 3 finalists songs were selected as they stood out for their creativity, invention & courage with lyrics & melodies illuminating our imaginations as well as the overall impact of the song. Congratulations also go to all SAYS22 finalists and our vibrant community of young songwriters.

The UK/Ireland winners will be announced on the 25th June at The Young Songwriter 2022 live showcase held at The Tabernacle, Notting Hill, London.  HOW TO BOOK TICKETS:  send an email to contact@songacademy.co.uk to request tickets.  The International winners will be announced at the online showcase on Sunday 26th June at 2pm BST.

Fraser T Smith (songwriter, producer and SAYS21 judge) said “With so much going on in the world, it’s never been more vital for young people to be able to channel their energy and emotions into something positive, which is what The Young Songwriter competition encourages and facilitates through songwriting. Every young person has something to say, a story to tell, or a message to share – that’s why Song Academy is so important to our community.”

As well as The Young Songwriter competition, Song Academy run songwriting clubs in term time, songwriting workshops in the holidays, song feedback reports, recording & production workshops, bespoke songwriting workshops & birthday parties.

Official sponsors of The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition are YouTube Music, Yamaha, Soundtrap, Focusrite, PRS for Music, IK Multimedia, ICMP and Orange Learn.

CATEGORY:  UK/IRELAND, 13-18 YEAR OLDS (TOP 3 SONGS)

CANNOT LOSE MYSELF – SISI (NORTH EAST)
DON’T RILE THE YOUNG – SONIC DAZE (LONDON)
SOLD THE STORY – LEONA MAE (BEDS, HERTS & BUCKS)

HIGHLY COMMENDED: GATEKEEPER – BEA (LONDON)

CATEGORY:  UK/IRELAND, 8-12 YEAR OLDS (TOP 3 SONGS)

FOMO – HOLLY DAIS (DEVON)
FREE – JOHNNY BEAU (LONDON)
LINGO – MATTHEW ARKOH (LONDON)

CATEGORY:  INTERNATIONAL, 13-18 YEAR OLDS (TOP 3 SONGS)

BIGGER – ALEXANDRA CRIBB (TORONTO, CANADA)
BOY – SUMMER BRENNAN (CALIFORNIA, USA)
THINK MYSELF TO DEATH – JOEY WILBUR (CHICAGO, USA)

CATEGORY:  INTERNATIONAL, 8-12 YEAR OLDS (TOP 3 SONGS)

BUBBLEGUM GIRL – DEVY (MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA)
DEAR MADELEINE – EVA STEINERT (MISSOURI, USA)
ON THE RUN – NOAH ROBERTSON (QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA)

SAYS22 Official Partners include First News, Amazing Radio, BMI, Ivors Academy, FAC, SoundCity, AOC, MUSIC:ED, The Troubadour, Sing Up & Fun Kids Radio

NOTES TO EDITORS:

SONG ACADEMY – helping every child find their voice and find their tribe

Founded 13 years ago, Song Academy is dedicated to the future of music and the wellbeing of young people aged 8-18. Our mission is to help children from all backgrounds find their voice and find their tribe, through writing their own original songs at a formative time of their life. We aim to take them from their first song to developing their first album. We nurture young writers, artists, musicians, producers and creative thinkers, empowering young people to achieve their full potential and shape their future.

We are the leading platform for young songwriters.  Our focus is on the craft of songwriting, creating lyrics and music. We believe that songwriting and music can transform the lives of young people. Young people are growing up in a competitive, fast-changing and potentially isolating environment, leaving them vulnerable to various pressures and issues with their mental health. Songwriting enables young people to communicate their thoughts and feelings and connect to others. Through this creative and therapeutic process, they can discover their identity, overcome challenges, feel empowered, and advance their general writing and social skills. Not only can the songs they write advance potential musical careers, but also spark debate, build connection with peers and shape their future.

Song Academy runs after-school clubs, holiday workshops, school workshops, birthday parties and an annual international Young Songwriter competition. As a result of our programmes, we have seen an increase in confidence, self-esteem, creativity, motivation, well-being and technical songwriting ability of our members.

Email: rowena@songacademy.co.uk. Tel: 07710 023743

ORIGINALITY • CREATIVITY • COURAGE • INDIVIDUALITY • SELF ESTEEM • INSPIRATION • RESILIENCE • CONNECTION • RESPECT

The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 showcase

A must see event to inspire musical & creative young people! The winners & top finalists of The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition and special VIP guests will perform their original songs at the iconic Tabernacle in Notting Hill.  Book your tickets!

The inspirational Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 live showcase will be held on Saturday 25th June, 7 – 9:30pm at The Tabernacle, 34-35 Powis Square, Notting Hill, London W11 2AY.  The Young Songwriter 2022 competition winners, finalists and Song Academy alumni making waves in the music industry will be performing their original songs live at The Tabernacle – a fabulous venue in Notting Hill. Plus, VIP Guest and SAYS22 judge, Grace Davies will be performing!

The showcase celebrates the inventiveness & creativity of young people and the power of songwriting to help young people find their voice and find their tribe.  The future is bright and diverse!

We are delighted that the showcase will be compered by two young creative stars & Song Academy ambassadors – Sophie Griffiths & Lex Gibbon.  Sophie is an exceptional singer songwriter with her soul-pop sound and a TikTok influencer with over 360k followers!  Lex is a fabulous singer songwriter and an advocate for mental health awareness, body positivity and anti bullying – using her music to help inspire others and help them believe they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

HOW TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS

To book your seats at this unique event send an email to contact@songacademy.co.uk. £20 for seats at tables in the stalls (8 person tables and 10 person tables). £15 for seats in the gallery. All seats have an excellent view of the stage. Limited availability so we suggest you book soon. E-tickets will be sent out the week before.

The Song Academy Young Songwriter competition is the leading international songwriting competition for young people aged 8-18.  This year attracted an impressive 852 high quality entries. Song Academy gives the unheard youth a voice and platform to express themselves and be heard. The standard of finalist songs entered this year was exceptionally high. To select the top 10 songs we listened for inventiveness, creativity & bravery with lyrics & melodies illuminating our imaginations. Young people have a unique way of expressing themselves, they are a new generation experiencing life in the most vivid and visceral way.

SAYS22 Star Judges include Tom Grennan, Amy Wadge, Miranda Cooper, Tom Odell, Eg White, Jimmy Napes, Emily Phillips, Plested, Hannah V, Sodajerker, Sacha Skarbek, Calum Scott, Dan Gillespie Sells, Janet Devlin, Crispin Hunt, Maegan Cottone, Simon Aldred & Grace Davies.

Official sponsors of The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition are YouTube Music, Yamaha, Soundtrap, Focusrite, PRS for Music, IK Multimedia, ICMP and Orange Learn.

Fraser T Smith (songwriter, producer and SAYS21 judge) said “With so much going on in the world, it’s never been more vital for young people to be able to channel their energy and emotions into something positive, which is what The Young Songwriter competition encourages and facilitates through songwriting. Every young person has something to say, a story to tell, or a message to share – that’s why Song Academy is so important to our community.”

Tom Odell (singer songwriter and SAYS22 judge) said “When I was 13 years old I started writing songs, and over the following years I became more and more obsessed with it. But the thing that always kept me awake at night was how to get them out there for people to hear them. This is why I think the Song Academy Young Songwriter competition is a great way to inspire and help through this process, and it’s something I wish had been around when I was starting out.”

THE YOUNG SONGWRITER 2022, UK/IRELAND TOP 10 FINALISTS

13-18 YEAR OLDS 

BELLADONNA – RUBY COOKE (LONDON)
BREATHTAKING TENSION – CHARLIE HEWLETT (DEVON)
CANNOT LOSE MYSELF – SISI (NORTH EAST)
CONTRAST – VINNIE COHEN (LONDON)
DON’T RILE THE YOUNG – SONIC DAZE (LONDON)
GATEKEEPER – BEA (LONDON)
HONEST – CONOR MARCUS (IRELAND)
NEW YEAR’S EVE – RUBY ANN SPIEGEL (NORFOLK)
SOLD THE STORY – LEONA MAE (BEDS, HERTS & BUCKS)
SWEET 16 – TWAYN (NORTH EAST)

HIGHLY COMMENDED: DANIEL MCCARTHY, ALL IN – LUKE ELLIOTT, BETTER OFF – ROSIE TRENTHAM, GIRL THAT I OUTGREW – STATYC, MACHINE HEAD BOY – THIS ELEGANT GULL, SOULS ARE RISING – OSCAR MEADES, TOPIARY – STUART VEITCH, USED TO BE

YOUNG RISING STAR: WOODY COLLINS, IRON FIST, 13 YEARS OLD

8-12 YEAR OLDS 

ANTHEM X – JOHN DENTON (MANCHESTER)
FIND YOU – FIRE FLIES (LONDON)
FOMO – HOLLY DAIS (DEVON)
FRANKIE IN THE HOUSE (SUPER COOL) – FRANKIE MEADES (BEDS, HERTS & BUCKS)
FREE – JOHNNY BEAU (LONDON)
FRIED – UMA MARTIN (LONDON)
LINGO – MATTHEW ARKOH (LONDON)
MY FATE – NIKOLAS ROCHE (LONDON)
OUR SECRET HEAVEN – GRETA KILL (DEVON)
TAKE ME TO THE STARS – JOSEPH DAVIS (WEST MIDLANDS)

HIGHLY COMMENDED: MAX KENWORTHY, DON’T LEAVE ME NOW – NELLY ROSE BINGHAM, FIND A PLACE – GEORGIA TAYLOR , MIRACLE – MAYA HELON, OPPOSITE WAY – FINN CRABTREE, PARADISE FALLS – SYLVIE HAMMERSLEY-FOX, TURN BACK TIME

We hope to see you there!

BACKGROUND ON SONG ACADEMY – helping every child find their voice and find their tribe

ORIGINALITY • CREATIVITY • COURAGE • INDIVIDUALITY • SELF ESTEEM • INSPIRATION • RESILIENCE • CONNECTION • RESPECT

Founded 13 years ago, Song Academy is dedicated to the future of music and the wellbeing of young people aged 8-18. Our mission is to help children from all backgrounds find their voice and find their tribe, through writing their own original songs at a formative time of their life. We aim to take them from their first song to developing their first album. We nurture young writers, artists, musicians, producers and creative thinkers, empowering young people to achieve their full potential and shape their future.

We are the leading platform for young songwriters.  Our focus is on the craft of songwriting, creating lyrics and music. We believe that songwriting and music can transform the lives of young people. Young people are growing up in a competitive, fast-changing and potentially isolating environment, leaving them vulnerable to various pressures and issues with their mental health. Songwriting enables young people to communicate their thoughts and feelings and connect to others. Through this creative and therapeutic process, they can discover their identity, overcome challenges, feel empowered, and advance their general writing and social skills. Not only can the songs they write advance potential musical careers, but also spark debate, build connection with peers and shape their future.

Song Academy runs after-school clubs, holiday workshops, school workshops, birthday parties and an annual international Young Songwriter competition. As a result of our programmes, we have seen an increase in confidence, self-esteem, creativity, motivation, well-being and technical songwriting ability of our members.

Email: rowena@songacademy.co.uk. Tel: 07710 023743

UPCOMING SONGWRITING PROGRAMMES

Summer holidays Songwriting Workshops

Song Feedback Reports Service

Autumn Term Songwriting Clubs

Announcing the top 10 finalists in The Young Songwriter 2022 competition

The Young Songwriter 2022 competition gives the unheard youth a voice and platform to express themselves and be heard. The standard of finalist songs entered this year was exceptionally high. To select the top 10 songs we listened for inventiveness, creativity & bravery with lyrics & melodies illuminating our imaginations.  Young people have a unique way of expressing themselves, they are a new generation experiencing life in the most vivid and visceral way.  The future of music is bright and diverse.

SAYS22 Star Judges include Tom Grennan, Amy Wadge, Miranda Cooper, Tom Odell, Eg White, Jimmy Napes, Emily Phillips, Plested, Hannah V, Sodajerker, Sacha Skarbek, Calum Scott, Dan Gillespie Sells, Janet Devlin, Simon Aldred & Grace Davies

Drumroll please! The top 10 finalists of the hotly contested Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition, in its 12th year, have now been revealed. This year’s competition attracted an impressive 852 high quality entries from aspiring young songwriters aged 8-18 across the world, both experienced young songwriters and those who’ve written their first song.

The Young Songwriter competition stands for the craft and art of songwriting in its purest form, enabling young songwriters to aspire to the very best melody, lyric, structure, concept, harmony, mood and impact a song can have. It inspires young people to think about and speak up about things that are important to them personally, in their community and in the wider world and get their voices heard. It’s a supportive community where young people feel brave and can express themselves, celebrate individuality and be themselves. The benefits from this unique community are far reaching, especially the positive boost to mental health.

What makes a sensational song is ultimately subjective. The top 10 finalists songs (Top 5 finalists songs in the international categories) were selected as they stood out for their creativity, invention & courage with lyrics & melodies illuminating our imaginations. Congratulations also go to all SAYS22 finalists.  Goto the Song Academy SoundCloud account to listen to the top finalists’ songs!  Plus the top songs and young songwriters are shown below. Get to know our SAYS22 finalists by reading their interviews on our blog.

The top 3 finalists of all categories will be announced on the 13th June.  The UK/Ireland winners will be announced on the 25th June at The Young Songwriter 2022 live showcase held at The Tabernacle, Notting Hill, London.  The International winners will be announced at the online showcase on Sunday 26th June at 2pm BST.

Fraser T Smith (songwriter, producer and SAYS21 judge) said “With so much going on in the world, it’s never been more vital for young people to be able to channel their energy and emotions into something positive, which is what The Young Songwriter competition encourages and facilitates through songwriting. Every young person has something to say, a story to tell, or a message to share – that’s why Song Academy is so important to our community.”

As well as The Young Songwriter competition, Song Academy run songwriting clubs in term time, songwriting workshops in the holidays, song feedback reports, recording & production workshops, bespoke songwriting workshops & birthday parties.

Official sponsors of The Song Academy Young Songwriter 2022 competition are YouTube Music, Yamaha, Soundtrap, Focusrite, PRS for Music, IK Multimedia, ICMP and Orange Learn.

CATEGORY:  UK/IRELAND, 13-18 YEAR OLDS (TOP 10 SONGS)

BELLADONNA – RUBY COOKE (LONDON)
BREATHTAKING TENSION – CHARLIE HEWLETT (DEVON)
CANNOT LOSE MYSELF – SISI (NORTH EAST)
CONTRAST – VINNIE COHEN (LONDON)
DON’T RILE THE YOUNG – SONIC DAZE (LONDON)
GATEKEEPER – BEA (LONDON)
HONEST – CONOR MARCUS (IRELAND)
NEW YEAR’S EVE – RUBY ANN SPIEGEL (NORFOLK)
SOLD THE STORY – LEONA MAE (BEDS, HERTS & BUCKS)
SWEET 16 – TWAYN (NORTH EAST)

HIGHLY COMMENDED: DANIEL MCCARTHY, ALL IN – LUKE ELLIOTT, BETTER OFF – ROSIE TRENTHAM, GIRL THAT I OUTGREW – STATYC, MACHINE HEAD BOY – THIS ELEGANT GULL, SOULS ARE RISING – OSCAR MEADES, TOPIARY – STUART VEITCH, USED TO BE

YOUNG RISING STAR: WOODY COLLINS, IRON FIST, 13 YEARS OLD

CATEGORY:  UK/IRELAND, 8-12 YEAR OLDS (TOP 10 SONGS)

ANTHEM X – JOHN DENTON (MANCHESTER)
FIND YOU – FIRE FLIES (LONDON)
FOMO – HOLLY DAIS (DEVON)
FRANKIE IN THE HOUSE (SUPER COOL) – FRANKIE MEADES (BEDS, HERTS & BUCKS)
FREE – JOHNNY BEAU (LONDON)
FRIED – UMA MARTIN (LONDON)
LINGO – MATTHEW ARKOH (LONDON)
MY FATE – NIKOLAS ROCHE (LONDON)
OUR SECRET HEAVEN – GRETA KILL (DEVON)
TAKE ME TO THE STARS – JOSEPH DAVIS (WEST MIDLANDS)

HIGHLY COMMENDED: MAX KENWORTHY, DON’T LEAVE ME NOW – NELLY ROSE BINGHAM, FIND A PLACE – GEORGIA TAYLOR , MIRACLE – MAYA HELON, OPPOSITE WAY – FINN CRABTREE, PARADISE FALLS – SYLVIE HAMMERSLEY-FOX, TURN BACK TIME

CATEGORY:  INTERNATIONAL, 13-18 YEAR OLDS (TOP 5 SONGS)

ATOMIC BOMB – CALISTA HARMS (CALIFORNIA, USA)
BIGGER – ALEXANDRA CRIBB (TORONTO, CANADA)
BOY – SUMMER BRENNAN (CALIFORNIA, USA)
SUNDAYS – LILY WELCH (BOSTON, USA)
THINK MYSELF TO DEATH – JOEY WILBUR (CHICAGO, USA)

HIGHLY COMMENDED: SEDA PARTIZPANYAN, DIMPLES – MALAIKA WAINWRIGHT, DONE – ISAAC STAINES, HEROES HAVE SHADOWS TOO – PETER PULST, PHASES – NEAV, TALKING TO THE DEVIL – LINDSAY LIEBRO, WASTED POTENTIAL

YOUNG RISING STAR: THE SEASIDE FEELS, TETHERED, 13 YEARS OLD

CATEGORY:  INTERNATIONAL, 8-12 YEAR OLDS (TOP 5 SONGS)

ANYWHERE – AUSTIN BRUFORD (INDIANA, USA)
BUBBLEGUM GIRL – DEVY (MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA)
DEAR MADELEINE – EVA STEINERT (MISSOURI, USA)
I WISH, I DREAM – TAMARA YASIN (TAMPA, USA)
ON THE RUN – NOAH ROBERTSON (QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA)

SAYS22 Official Partners include First News, Amazing Radio, BMI, Ivors Academy, FAC, SoundCity, AOC, MUSIC:ED, The Troubadour, Sing Up & Fun Kids Radio

NOTES TO EDITORS:

SONG ACADEMY – helping every child find their voice and find their tribe

Founded 13 years ago, Song Academy is dedicated to the future of music and the wellbeing of young people aged 8-18. Our mission is to help children from all backgrounds find their voice and find their tribe, through writing their own original songs at a formative time of their life. We aim to take them from their first song to developing their first album. We nurture young writers, artists, musicians, producers and creative thinkers, empowering young people to achieve their full potential and shape their future.

We are the leading platform for young songwriters.  Our focus is on the craft of songwriting, creating lyrics and music. We believe that songwriting and music can transform the lives of young people. Young people are growing up in a competitive, fast-changing and potentially isolating environment, leaving them vulnerable to various pressures and issues with their mental health. Songwriting enables young people to communicate their thoughts and feelings and connect to others. Through this creative and therapeutic process, they can discover their identity, overcome challenges, feel empowered, and advance their general writing and social skills. Not only can the songs they write advance potential musical careers, but also spark debate, build connection with peers and shape their future.

Song Academy runs after-school clubs, holiday workshops, school workshops, birthday parties and an annual international Young Songwriter competition. As a result of our programmes, we have seen an increase in confidence, self-esteem, creativity, motivation, well-being and technical songwriting ability of our members.

Email: rowena@songacademy.co.uk. Tel: 07710 023743

ORIGINALITY • CREATIVITY • COURAGE • INDIVIDUALITY • SELF ESTEEM • INSPIRATION • RESILIENCE • CONNECTION • RESPECT

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