"The Mountain Stage NewSong Contest is one of the premier showcases of talented singer-songwriters across multiple genres of music in North America. Contest winners get the opportunity to record an EP for free with a notable producer. In addition, the winner will perform at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, receive a performance showcase at the Sundance ASCAP Music Café, and perform on an internationally broadcast Mountain Stage (NPR) show.
The short list of those who have made their national debut on the show include the Barenaked Ladies, Ryan Adams, Sheryl Crow, Norah Jones, Alison Krauss and NewSong Recordings artists and former contest standouts Ingrid Michaelson, Chris Velan, Lora-Faye, Amber Rubarth, Arthur Alligood and Diana Jones.
Finalists and other contest standouts will also be invited to participate in future NewSong Music productions in various locations throughout the country, and will be candidates for film and television placement opportunities, as well as for future releases on the NewSong Recordings label. Non-winning finalists will also be considered for future Mountain Stage appearances. Contestants can designate the style of song they consider their entry to fit when entering tunes. The contest is open to all genres of music, although songs must include a vocal with lyrics to be considered to advance.
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