Registration Closing For 21st Annual USA Songwriting Competition

Deadline is fast approaching for the 21st Annual USA Songwriting Competition. Songwriters vie for a chance to win a top prize of $50,000 worth of cash and merchandise such as music gear. Winning songs will be receiving radio airplay. Songwriters can enter in 15 different song categories such as: Pop, Rock/Alt, Folk, R&B, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Instrumental, etc.

The 2016 USA Songwriting Competition is sponsored by PRS Guitars, Sony, D'Addario Strings, Recording Magazine, New Music Weekly, Loggins Promotion, Airplay Access, Audio-Technica, Full Compass Music Stores, Presonus, Sonoma Wireworks, IK Multimedia, Intellitouch Tuners, Sweetwater and Landr

Last year's winners Los Angeles based Folk/Pop band "Distant Cousins" win Overall Grand Prize at the 20th Annual USA Songwriting Competition with their song "Are You Ready (On Your Own)" The song is written by Ami Kozak, Dov Rosenblatt & Duvid Swirsky.

The song was featured in the 2016 American Idol (first episode) as well as Box office hit motion picture 'This Is Where I Leave You', starring Jason Bateman and Tina Fey. This is the third consecutive year that the top winner has a song placed in a box office hit movie.

The 2014 winning song by Justine and Kerris Dorsey was featured in the box office hit movie "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" starring Steve Carell and Jennifer Garner. The 2013 winner American Authors' song was placed in the hit movie "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty", starring Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Shirley MacLaine and Sean Penn. American Authors is a rock group from New York City. They hit #1 on the Billboard Charts after they win at the 2013 USA Songwriting Competition. The song has been certified double platinum.

Distant Cousins is a relatively new band but their songs have been featured in commercials such as German soft drink "Lift" and Macy's, on TV programs such as Graceland, Criminal Minds and Fly Away.

USA Songwriting Competition has been honoring songwriters from all over the world. Winners came from Australia, Japan, Canada, UK, Germany, Brazil, South Africa, USA, etc. Past winners have gotten recording contracts, getting their songs on film, TV as well as getting cuts with major artists. The 2013 Top winner rock band "American Authors" hit #1 on the Billboard Charts and went Double Platinum, selling over 2 million copies. The 2007 winner Air Gold hit Top 10 on the Billboard charts with his winning song 6 months after his win. The 2005 Winner of the Country category had his winning song cut by Country Superstar Faith Hill. The 2005 winner of the Pop category was signed by Interscope Records. Our 2008 winner appeared on David Letterman TV show and got signed to a record label.

The Deadline to enter is May 27th. Time is running out to enter, visit:
http://www.songwriting.net/enter

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=191314

New Songwriting Software Helps Musicians Brainstorm Lyrics

Ever got writer's block when devising a poem or song lyrics?

Tried paperback thesauruses and websites to find just the right words to express yourself?

A new software claims to produce results 20x as fast as what is generally out there.

"As a musician, poet and freelance writer I developed this tool when I was doing some paid work as a ghostwriter. I've used Brainstorm Pro to produce poems that clients found outstanding, in a really short amount of time" say Jesse Gilbert, the creator of the software.

Using Brainstorm Pro a songwriter can just enter 5 or 10 words that they want to write about, then get lists of words to choose from and find the rhyming words...all in record time.

The program more targeted towards the aspiring urban songwriter than established musicians who can pay thousands to have hit songs written for them.

Brainstorm Pro is desktop based so much of the slow load time for websites is reduced and allows the composer to work offline where there may not be an internet connection.

"We've had a few songwriters try it out and say they knew something like this had to be out there and they were finally seeing it. It's like magic for wordsmiths."

To learn more about this software, see demonstations and download a free try version, check out http://www.brainstormpro.com

Industry influencers who are looking for products to recommend are also invited to visit our joint ventures page for collaboration opportunities at http://www.brainstormpro.com/jvs-affiliates/

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=190654

Award-Winning Texas Singer/Songwriter DeDe to Release Dream of You Feb. 12, 2016

DeDe Wedekind, or just "DeDe" as she goes by for music, is an award-winning singer/songwriter from Houston, Texas. DeDe won Song of the Year at the 2015 IMEA AWARDS in Atlanta this past October for her new single "Stronger" from her upcoming album, Dream of You. Dream of You is DeDe's highly anticipated 4th album, which will be released on Feb 12, 2016.

For her new album, which has been almost 2 years in the making, DeDe's been songwriting with Los Angeles-based Multi-Platinum Producer & Songwriter, Kevin DeClue (Hillary Duff, Charlie Midnight & Rihanna). DeDe wrote or co-wrote all the songs on Dream of You. This album and the new hit single: "Love Lives On", were recorded at Nashville's famed 515 Studio with Multi-Platinum mega-hit Songwriter & Producer, Andrew Fromm. Andrew is the songwriter for the ‘NSync "Millenium" album, the Backstreet Boys, Marc Anthony & many others, and he not only helped DeDe arrange the piano part for Love Lives On, but also is featured playing this song on DeDe's new album.

DeDe's currently a Featured New Artist with a 10-page! Spotlight on her music and her upcoming album in the February 2016 Indie Music Magazine (IMC Magazine pages 30-39), and you can find the article: "DeDe: An Artist In Her Prime & Ahead of Her Time" here: http://www.theimcmag.com/. She's also the Women of Substance Radio's Featured Artist for February: http://www.wosradio.com. On Feb. 15th, DeDe's spotlighted as an Emerging Artist in the March edition of the Lov3rs #Artists United Magazine, with a review of her new song, Prime of Life: http://www.magcloud.com/WEBVIEWER/1035477.

DeDe won 2 Albums of the Year (and one Song of the Year), from the International Music & Entertainment Awards in 2014 for Album #2: Love & Fairy Tales, and album #3: World of Christmas! Over the past 3 years of her 4-year career, DeDe's been a repeat FINALIST in the following International Songwriting Competitions: the International Songwriting Contest, The USA Songwriting Contest, the UK Songwriting Contest, the 2014 Annual Dallas Songwriting Contest, and Song of the Year.com's 2015 Songwriting Contest in July 2015.

With over 110K fans worldwide, DeDe's music is recognized for: fusing several genres, uplifting melodies, stunning vocals, and her honest, inspiring lyrics. An Air9 US, Canadian and European major-market radio campaign starts in February for three singles from Dream of You: "Prime of Life", "Dream of You" and "Love Lives On". To listen to and purchase DeDe's music, or to contact DeDe's management regarding interviews or appearances, please visit: http://www.DeDe-Music.com.

http://www.jango.com/stations/airplay_song_tunein?song_id=1968294

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=189309

The 21st Annual USA Songwriting Competition Kicks Off

Entries are now accepted for the 21st Annual USA Songwriting Competition. Songwriters vie for a chance to win a top prize of $50,000 worth of cash and merchandise such as music gear. Winning songs will be receiving radio airplay. Songwriters can enter in 15 different song categories such as: Pop, Rock/Alt, Folk, R&B, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Instrumental, etc.

The 2016 USA Songwriting Competition is sponsored by PRS Guitars, Sony, D'Addario Strings, Recording Magazine, New Music Weekly, Loggins Promotion, Airplay Access, Audio-Technica, Full Compass Music Stores, Presonus, Sonoma Wireworks, IK Multimedia, Intellitouch Tuners, Sweetwater and Landr

Last year's winners Los Angeles based Folk/Pop band "Distant Cousins" win Overall Grand Prize at the 20th Annual USA Songwriting Competition with their song "Are You Ready (On Your Own)" The song is written by Ami Kozak, Dov Rosenblatt & Duvid Swirsky.

The song was featured in the 2016 American Idol (first episode) as well as Box office hit motion picture 'This Is Where I Leave You', starring Jason Bateman and Tina Fey. This is the third consecutive year that the top winner has a song placed in a box office hit movie.

The 2014 winning song by Justine and Kerris Dorsey was featured in the box office hit movie "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" starring Steve Carell and Jennifer Garner. The 2013 winner American Authors' song was placed in the hit movie "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty", starring Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Shirley MacLaine and Sean Penn. American Authors is a rock group from New York City. They hit #1 on the Billboard Charts after they win at the 2013 USA Songwriting Competition. The song has been certified double platinum.

Distant Cousins is a relatively new band but their songs have been featured in commercials such as German soft drink "Lift" and Macy's, on TV programs such as Graceland, Criminal Minds and Fly Away.

USA Songwriting Competition has been honoring songwriters from all over the world. Winners came from Australia, Japan, Canada, UK, Germany, Brazil, South Africa, USA, etc. Past winners have gotten recording contracts, getting their songs on film, TV as well as getting cuts with major artists. The 2013 Top winner rock band "American Authors" hit #1 on the Billboard Charts and went Double Platinum, selling over 2 million copies. The 2007 winner Air Gold hit Top 10 on the Billboard charts with his winning song 6 months after his win. The 2005 Winner of the Country category had his winning song cut by Country Superstar Faith Hill. The 2005 winner of the Pop category was signed by Interscope Records. Our 2008 winner appeared on David Letterman TV show and got signed to a record label.

For more information, visit: http://www.songwriting.net

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=189102

Grammy Award Winning Producer/Songwriter Robert Cutarella Launches Songwriting Workshop "Mine Your Music" In Los Angeles On October 1

Grammy Award winning producer/songwriter Robert Cutarella is launching his highly anticipated songwriting workshop "Mine Your Music" in Los Angeles on October 1 at SAE Institute of Technology. The five-week course will offer in-depth instruction on songwriting, production, and how to compete in today's musical environment. Individual One-On-One sessions are also available either in person or via Skype. Visit http://www.eventbrite.com/e/mine-your-music-workshop-tickets-18548291439?aff=efbevent to sign up or for more information http://robertcutarella.com/mine-your-music/.

Robert Cutarella is currently enjoying Billboard chart success (#23) with the dance club single "Shockwaves" which he co-wrote and co-produced with pop/dance artist DeGrazio. He is presently working on projects with several international artists slated for release later this year.

Workshop details are as follows:

SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP
MINE YOUR MUSIC
Moderator: Robert Cutarella

- This workshop is designed to understand how to improve your melodic, rhythmic and lyrical sensibilities and to create songs that are competitive regardless of genre in the current musical landscape.
- Production techniques will be discussed as well as the relationship that exists between artists, writers and producers.
- One focus will be understanding how to efficiently collaborate and communicate with your co-writers.
- The writer will be encouraged to bring in whatever music he or she feels is important to explore on a weekly basis in any format they feel comfortable with. Robert and the group will provide their input with the goal of improving the song's potential.
- Feedback will range from the perspective of writing, production, artistry or any of the three.
- How to penetrate the ever changing music industry and create long term success will be part of the weekly discussions and industry experts will make guest appearances during the five week workshop.
- Mine Your Music is geared towards helping you establish long term success and achieving whatever dreams and goals you possess!

Workshop begins Thursday, October 1
Location: SAE Institute of Technology
6700 Santa Monica Blvd Classroom 3
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Price: $500 for five weeks 7-10pm weekly

MINE YOUR MUSIC - ONE ON ONE SESSION
The One on One offering consists of a one hour private consultation or a one hour Skype session focusing on songwriting, producing, artistry or career options. Everything from critiquing your songs to exploring your artistry or production skills will be discussed. If you need help deciding the best strategy possible for your career, Robert Cutarella will help you arrive at the most intelligent options possible.
Price: $125 for one hour consultation.

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=186641

Deadline Looms For 20th Annual USA Songwriting Competition

In it's landmark 20th year, USA Songwriting Competition deadline is fast approaching. Win a top prize of $50,000 worth of cash and merchandise such as cool gear from PRS Guitars, Sony, D'Addario Strings, PreSonus, Audio-Technica and more. Also, have your winning songs played on a syndicated radio program that airs in 65 different cities in North America. Enter your songs in Pop, Rock/Alt, Folk, R&B, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Instrumental, etc.

USA Songwriting Competition has been honoring songwriters from all over the world. Winners came from Australia, Japan, Canada, UK, Germany, Brazil, South Africa, USA, etc. Past winners have gotten recording contracts, getting their songs on film, TV as well as getting cuts with major artists. The 2013 Top winner hit #1 on the Billboard Charts and went Double Platinum, sold over 2 million copies.

Last years top winners were sister duo Justine Dorsey, 19 years old and Kerris Dorsey, 16 years old wrote their song “Best Worst Day Ever”. The song was signed to Walt Disney Music and appeared in the box office hit movie "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" starring Steve Carell and Jennifer Garner. The 2005 winner of the Pop category was signed by Interscope Records; she went on to hit Top 10 on the Billboard 200 Album charts. Our 2008 winner appeared on David Letterman TV show and was signed to a record label.

USA Songwriting Competition is sponsored by: Sony, D'Addario Strings, Acoustic Guitar Magazine, New Music Weekly, Loggins Promotion, Airplay Access, D'Addario strings, PRS Guitars, Audio-Technica, Full Compass Music Stores, Propellerheads, Presonus, Notion Software, Sonoma Wireworks, IK Multimedia, Alfred Music, Sonicbids, etc.

The music industry experts have said USA Songwriting Competition is the best song contest around.

"This is a great place for talent to be found", said Monte Lipman, President & CEO of Universal Records

"A healthy and important competition, good outlet for creative people", said Andy Karp, Executive VP/Head of A&R, Atlantic Records

"My Name is Jennifer Adan and I used to enter this contest all the time back in the day. I am proud to say that I am now a HIT songwriter who lives in Nashville and travels back and forth to LA to write. I had a two week #1 hit with Blake Shelton "She Wouldn't Be Gone" and I just released my first children’s book. You guys were a big part of my early career!", said Jennifer Adan, Hit Songwriter with #1 Billboard Hits and BMI Award Winning Songwriter.

Deadline to enter is May 29th. Entry forms are available in 10 different Languages. For more information, visit:
http://www.songwriting.net/enter

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=183658

Ground Wire Music Opens for Business

Jason Mozersky and Jesse Ingalls, Grammy award-winning members of Ben Harper's band Relentless 7, have launched their new boutique music writing and production company, GroundWire Music. Based in Los Angeles, GroundWire Music will have its focus on writing, creating, and producing original content for film, television, advertising, and brand partnerships.

A native of San Antonio based in Austin, Texas, Mozersky played and recorded for many years with numerous rock bands, including Stevie Ray Vaughan's band Double Trouble. Composer Ingalls, a native of Washington D.C., studied classical and jazz music at the University of Texas in Austin, where the pair's musical collaboration began. They were mainstays in the blossoming Austin indie rock scene of the 2000s, and have been writing and performing together ever since. In 2008, Ingalls, Mozersky and drummer Jordan Richardson, joined forces with Ben Harper to form a new band, Relentless 7.

The talented founders of GroundWire have worked in studios and shared the stage with luminaries including Ben Harper, Eddie Vedder, Jackson Browne, Natalie Maines and Ringo Starr. Their work with Harper as lead guitarist and bassist in Relentless 7 has resulted in five world tours and six studio albums including Dixie Chick, Natalie Maines' critically acclaimed solo album Mother. They were awarded the Grammy for co-producing and performing on Harper's Best Blues Album of 2013, Get Up! with harmonica legend, Charlie Musselwhite.

Earlier this year, GroundWire Music teamed up with LA-based music supervisor, Lindsay Fellows (The Imitation Game). Together they produced national spots for the CBS EcoMedia campaign, Viewers to Volunteers. Mozersky and Ingalls wrote original material for the campaign, which currently is being aired on CBS television and numerous additional social media platforms. Fellows holds out great promise for GroundWire Music, stating "I've been blessed to have been able to work with so many great composers, but it's always exciting to find new artists with a fresh sound. I believe that these guys have all the ingredients that it takes to be incredibly successful."

GroundWire is currently working on a global project for Red Bull Media House, creating and producing original music for Red Bull films and television. Other credits include co-writing various songs used by the NFL, the television drama House, and cosmetic makeup giant, Mary Kaye.

Music samples can be heard on their website groundwiremusic.com. For booking and licensing inquiries, please contact Travis Harrell at Travis@Groundwiremusic.com or 847-840-0744.

http://www.groundwiremusic.com

Want To Write Songs For The Likes Of Rihanna, Garth Brooks Or Madonna?

Songwriter Connect platform is a new service that is enabling the large number of talented and skilled songwriters to gain access to high quality placement opportunities with established performing artists, music publishers, film and TV.

The New Pitching Platform for Songwriters:
Songwriter Connect is a great new pitching platform for songwriters that compared with its major competitors offers a better quality of features and services. The platform is in its first year of operations and in the very initial stages of its launch, Songwriter Connect has shown some tremendous results for the members.

Seasoned and experienced publishers:
The company is offering opportunities with some of the best publishers who have worked with the most popular artists of the industry including Madonna, Rihanna, Jason Derulo, Beyonce, Enrique Iglesias and many more. These successful publishers have deals with the top 10 hits in the United States and UK as well as opportunities with The Voice and American idol finalists among others.

Long list of Successful Songwriters:
Some of the current members of Songwriter Connect also have worked with some reputable publishers and have written songs for well-known names like Garth Brooks, Kool and the Gang and Billy Ocean. These songwriters have good backgrounds and many of them have even hit the top 40 charts in various countries of the world. Members have placed music with companies and shows like Star Trek Enterprise, Dog the Bounty Hunter, a Lionsgate film production and CBC TV shows in the past. However, the door is also open to songwriters who have not necessary the same profile as long as the talent and quality is high. Songwriter Connect already managed to land songwriters publishing deals with a BMG Chrysalis affiliated music publisher for their Country and Pop songs within the first month of launch.

Screening of Members:
Unlike other competitors Songwriter Connect focuses on screening the new members before actually allowing them to sign up with the website. The signing is done through a proper application process, which is free from any charges or fees. By carrying out a very critical screening process the platform ensures that only high quality content is given out to the industry. This also improves the placement chances of the members.

This is a unique feature, which is unavailable in other market songwriting platforms. For example, Taxi.com gives membership to any individual who has the capability of paying the membership charges. They also charge for each submission in the industry as Music XRay does too. As a consequence, the production of the members and their submission allow them to be of low quality and mediocre standards. The repute of good songwriters affiliated with the company is then adversely affected and a large number of entries are rejected or treated as not yet ready. As a result the songwriters end up not only paying for the membership and submissions but also do not actually get any fruitful results. Both time and efforts are wasted.

Limited Number of Members:
Songwriter Connect offers membership to only a limited number of individuals. At any one time, there are not more than 500 members. This act is very fruitful for the members. It helps reduce the internal competition among the members of Songwriter Connect and provides them more opportunities for submission. With Taxi.com, Music XRay and other competitive platforms this is an unlimited number and results in thousands of members competing with one another.

Nominal Charges:
All selected candidates of Songwriter Connect will be asked to contribute only $49 annually for their account maintenance. Thereafter, all submissions for opportunities are free of charge. In comparison, Taxi.com proposes a membership fee of $299.

New venture and new opportunities:
Being a young company Songwriter Connect was launched after a thorough preparation and development. The members joining in the first year are sure to have greater opportunities and access to a large number of innovative features and offers. They are expected to grow as the company grows.

Constant innovation and development:
With the urge to become one of the leading and most unique songwriting platforms in the industry, the company is working very hard to achieve the best possible outcomes and features. For this purpose the vision and mission of constant development and innovation in its services is being followed very religiously. The opportunities provided to the existing and new members are regularly upgraded and updated with the market conditions and dynamics.

Best songwriting opportunities in the entire market:
This is the only platform in the industry that is focusing on improving and concentrating on songwriter placements. Unlike its other major competitors, Songwriter Connect tries and works on concentrating in placing the music with other artists, into Film and movie ventures and on television or to get signed by a music publisher. Other competitors work on labeling and commercializing the opportunities for the performing artists not giving songwriters their full attention.


http://www.songwriter-connect.com

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=181187

MarilynMusic Welcomes You To A Creative And Fruitful 2015

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=180679

Latest recording projects include three new tracks featuring Australian top ten singer songwriter Thom Crawford. "No Reason No Rhyme," "Smoke and Mirrors," and "Just Say Yes" are all available on MarilynMusic.net.

"It's been a privilege to work with and feature Sony recording artist Sera Burus, whom Michael Bolton has called the best singer he's ever heard," said MarilynMusics' Casey Conrad from The Vertical Room studio in NYC. "You Loved Me Best" is a powerful pop country crossover."It's the perfect match for Sera's incredible vocal chops," Conrad explained.

A unique opportunity to create a "State song" for California was the genesis of "Golden State," a rock anthem that evokes the power of Springsteen and Seger. Showcasing the talents of NYC based studio legend and Blues Brother's lead singer Jonny Rosch, the song is like a trip along the California coast including a cool homage to the Beach Boys.

Continuing a longstanding working relationship with New York producer/writer Gary Haase, Conrad is currently in the studio using his engineering and mixing skills on projects for various artists including Paul Mcartney and Chaka Khan.

MarilynMusics' Michael Gaines is busy in L.A. writing songs while also working on several film endeavors including "The Auctioneer," a drama set in the early 60's dealing with the seamy underbelly of the auction business.

Gaines and Conrad remain committed to their belief in the power of music to affect positive change.

You can access all of MarilynMusics'songs for licensing and purchase at MARILYNMUSIC.NET

Songwriters' Pad - Free Songwriting App For IPhone, IPad, Mac With Rhymes, Chords And Beats

Independent app designer Dante Varnado Moore of Paragoni, LLC today announces Songwriter's Pad, a suite of free and paid apps for iPhone, iPad and Mac.

Songwriter's Pad is a professional song writing app used by Grammy award winning songwriters and novices alike. It includes chord notation, a rhyming dictionary, thesaurus, digital audio recorder and a backing track player that allows you to import beats and instrumentals. It also includes a unique word and phrase idea generator designed to inspire creative expression and eliminate writer's block.

Songwriter's Pad is "an invaluable creative tool for the songwriter" and "it contains all of the essential tools that a songwriter needs in one easy to use app" says app designer Dante Varnado Moore.

Moore, an amateur music producer and songwriter was inspired to create the series of apps after being disappointed with the poor usability and high price tags of traditional songwriting software.

Listed below are the key features of Songwriter's Pad

Word And Phrase Idea Generator:
Generate words and phrases based on the feeling you're trying to convey with your lyrics

Rhymes, Dictionary And Thesaurus:
All of the essential tools that any serious songwriter would expect

Chords:
Intuitively add chord notations to your lyric
(note: this feature is not yet available for the iPhone version but is coming soon.)

Audio Recorder:
Record vocal and melody ideas with one tap

Backing Track Player:
Import beats and instrumental tracks to construct your lyric

Notes:
Capture author, publisher, copyright date, tempo, etc.

Sharing:
Export lyrics and audio via email or back up with DropBox

Device Requirements:
* Compatible with iPhone 3Gs running iOS 5.0 or later
* Compatible with all iPads running iOS 5.0 or later
* Compatible with Mac running OSX 10.6.8 or later

Try Songwriter's Pad Free:
A FREE fully featured version of Songwriter's Pad is available for download today for iPhone, iPad and Mac. Free versions are limited to the creation of one song.

FREE TRIALS OF SONGWRITER'S PAD
Songwriter's Pad for iPad - http://bit.ly/spleipad
Songwriter's Pad for iPhone - http://bit.ly/spiphonele
Songwriter's Pad for Mac - http://bit.ly/splemac

Other Versions
Songwriter's Pad for Android Devices - http://bit.ly/paragoniplay
Songwriter's Pad for Kindle Fire - http://bit.ly/spkindle
Songwriter's Pad for Nook - http://bit.ly/spnook

After "Chillin" At Coachella, And Meetings On The Paramount Lot MarilynMusic Heads Back To NYC To Work On Their Ever Expanding Catalogue

MarilynMusic's Michael Gaines and Casey Conrad braved crowds of over one hundred thousand people and one hundred seven degree desert sun to experience the unique three day music marathon, known as Coachella 2012. "We felt right at home during the entire 3 days, surrounded by nonstop music and an endless parade of partying people." said Gaines. "It's was like an amusement park but instead of rides there's great music," observed Conrad, who flew in from New York. Conrad's trip also included meetings on the Paramount lot with legendary producer Gene Kirkwood, ("Rocky," "Pope of Greenwich Village,") to discuss an upcoming film project with MarilynMusic. "It's great to be involved with Gene again whom I've learned a great deal from having worked on several of his pictures. Gene understands the crucial link between music and film, and has expressed great confidence in what MarilynMusic has to offer the movie business." said Gaines. Back at MarilynMusic's NYC studio The Vertical Room, Conrad is busy finishing the mix on a new track titled "Be My Muse" featuring singer songwriter Zane Carney. He's also lead guitarist for the broadway show "Spiderman Turn Off The Dark", as well as the band "Carney" with his brother Reeve who happens to also star as Spiderman. "Zane is a great guitar player and singer we've worked with before and we're excited to feature his voice on our tunes," commented Conrad. MarilynMusic's Casey Conrad is also in the middle of producing an album for singer/songwriter Joanne Perica. A close friend and collaborator on numerous tunes, Perica recently completed the song "Bones" with Sony/ATV artist Thom Crawford, produced by Sacha Skarbek, (Adele,Train, Jason Mraz) and featured in an upcoming film Called "For No Good Reason" with Johnny Depp. "Joanne's record is a strong emotional statement, we're taking our time exploring several musical genres and it will be well worth the wait," said Conrad." There are some very talented musicians on this record including Gary Haase, Karen Cole, Jeff Mironov, Zane Carney, Phil Hamilton... There may also be some truly great guest stars featured. Names discussed include singer/songwriting juggernaut Sera Burus, (recently signed to Sony by L.A. Reid). Perica's record is due out in the fall. MarilynMusic's Michael Gaines is back in NYC to continue his collaboration with Conrad on their ever expanding song catalogue. They also recently got together with good friend and colleague, well respected writer/prod Gary Haase and made a licensing agreement to offer a significant selection of tracks from Haase's catalogue on MarilynMusic.net. "We're excited to have a talent of Gary's caliber associated with MarilynMusic." Gaines concluded.

17th Annual USA Songwriting Competition Deadline Looms

Deadline is fast approaching for the 17th Annual USA Songwriting Competition, a competition open to all songwriters worldwide. Winning songs of the 17th Annual USA Songwriting Competition will receive airplay on a nationally syndicated radio program “Acoustic Café” as well as Sirius XM Satellite Radio. This is the first Songwriting Competition that gives airplay to the winning songs, giving deserving bands, songwriters the recognition and exposure they deserve. Entrants stand to win a grand prize of over US$50,000 in cash and music gear from sponsors such as Sony, D’Addario Strings, Ableton, Audio-Technica, Presonus, IK Multimedia, and more, making this the largest prize package for any annual songwriting competition. Other sponsors include: New Music Weekly, Loggins Promotion, AirplayAccess.com, Onboard Research, Acoustica, Livewire Musician, Sonoma Wireworks. Intellitouch Tuners, Reverbnation, Broadjam, Sirius XM Radio, Sonicbids and Soundcloud. Nenna Yvonne, songwriter from Los Angeles, is the 16th Annual USA Songwriting Competition's Overall Grand Prize winner was featured in Japan's Cure Magazine. Nenna Yvonne premiered her winning song "Go Around," on CBS’s hit TV show "The Mentalist" and currentlly signed to Interscope Records. Also from Los Angeles, Alexander Cardinale (see pictured, performing at USA Songwriting Competition's Songwriters Showcase during SXSW Week), 16th Annual USA Songwriting Competition's First Prize winner (Pop Category and Overall Second Prize Winner had his winning song "Traffic Lights" on the new "90210" TV program on CW network, aired on March 6, 2012. He was also on Music Connections Magazine's HOT 100 Unsigned Artists list of the year 2011. Alexander has worked as an actor in Films and TV . Most recently he shot a small, but featured principal role in David Fincher's hit movie The Social Network, written by Aaron Sorkin. Also soon to be released, he can be seen starring in Chad Peter's dark comedy, "Apocalypse, CA." Molly Hunt won the 16th Annual USA Songwriting Competition First Prize, Country category and Overall Third Prize winner made passed the Hollywood round and Las Vegas round of the Top 60 of American Idol TV show. She is the youngest first prize winner of the USA Songwriting Competition at just 15 years old. Molly will be singing the National Anthem at the Official Detroit Red Wings game two months ago. USA Songwriting Competition winners came from all over the world: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Japan, Denmark, etc. USA Songwriting Competition has a long history of having winners getting recording and publishing contracts, have their songs placed on the charts as well as having their songs placed on film and television. 2005 First Prize Winner Kate Voegele went on to get signed by Interscope records after her win. Kate shot to Pop stardom and her winning song "Only Fooling Myself" hit Top 40 on the Billboard Charts. Her second album hit top 10 on the Billboard 200 Charts. She also stars on the Hit TV show "One Tree Hill". USA Songwriting Competition winner Christopher Tin won two Grammy Awards at the recent 53rd Annual Grammy Awards. This marks a grand historic win, making Christopher the only USA Songwriting Competition winner to win two Grammy Awards in the same year. Christopher Tin won an honorable mention award at the 15th Annual USA Songwriting Competition with the same song "Baba Yetu" that won two Grammy awards.Judges include A&R managers from record labels such as Warner, Capitol Records, Universal, BMG/SONY Music. Songs may be entered in 15 different categories including Pop, Rock/Alternative, R&B and Country. Entries are accepted from now through May 31, 2012. For more information, visit: http://www.songwriting.net Email: info@songwriting.net

17th Annual USA Songwriting Competition Kicks Off

Entries are currently being accepted for the 17th Annual USA Songwriting Competition. Winning songs of the 17th Annual USA Songwriting Competition will receive airplay on a nationally syndicated radio program “Acoustic Café” as well as Sirius XM Satellite Radio. This is the first Songwriting Competition that gives airplay to the winning songs, giving deserving bands, songwriters the recognition and exposure they deserve. Entrants stand to win a grand prize of over US$50,000 in cash and music gear from sponsors such as Sony, D’Addario Strings, Audio-Technica, Presonus, IK Multimedia, and more, making this the largest prize package for any annual songwriting competition. Other sponsors include: New Music Weekly, Loggins Promotion, AirplayAccess.com, Onboard Research, Acoustica, Livewire Musician, Sonoma Wireworks, Livewire Musician, etc. Los Angeles based songwriters Nenna Yvonne and Alexander Cardinale swept the top two positions of the 16th Annual USA Songwriting Competition (2011). Nigerian born Nenna Yvonne won Overall Grand Prize as well as the first prize of the Pop category with her song “Go Around”. This marks the first time in 6 years that the top song was written by a solo songwriter. Alexander Cardinale and co-writer Morgan Taylor Reid of Los Angeles, CA won first prize in the Pop category as well as Overall Second Prize with their song “Traffic Lights”. Alexander Cardinale is professional Hollywood actor as well as a singe songwriter. Molly Hunt became the youngest winner in the history of the USA Songwriting Competition at just 15 years old along with co-writers Troy Johnson & Jack Williams from Nashville, TN won first prize in the country category as well as Overall Third Prize with their song “Go There”. For the first time all 10 finalists in the Country category are all collaborations, marking the importance and significance of collaboration in recent years of songwriting. Helle Hansen, from Denmark is a 10-time consecutive year honorable mention winner, making her the most consecutive year winner so far. Other winners came from Peru, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, South Africa, and Austria USA Songwriting Competition has a long history of having winners getting recording and publishing contracts, have their songs placed on the charts as well as having their songs placed on film and television. 2009 First Prize winner (country) was signed to Universal Records. 2005 First Prize winner (Pop) Kate Voegele was signed to Interscope Records the year after she won and had her winning song hit top 40 on the Billboard Charts, her latest album hit Top 10 on the Billboard 200 Album charts this summer. 2007 Overall Grand Prize Winner Ari Gold had his winning song “Where The Music Takes You” hit #10 on the Billboard Dance Charts. Darrell Scott, winner of the country category of the 2005 USA Song writing Competition had his winning song cut by award winning country singer Faith Hill. Last year's winner in the instrumental category, Christopher Tinn won two Grammy awards in 2011. Judges include A&R managers from record labels such as Warner, Capitol Records, Universal, BMG/SONY Music. Songs may be entered in 15 different categories including Pop, Rock/Alternative, R&B and Country. Entries are accepted from now through May 31, 2012. First 1,000 entries will each receive a USA Songwriting Competition Compilation CD. Entries may be entered with MP3 files, Youtube videos or Soundcloud files. For more information, visit www.songwriting.net or email info@songwriting.net.

Eclectic By Mary Lemanski To Be Released June 22, 2010 By Painted Girl Records

Website: http://www.marylemanski.com/

On June 22, 2010, Mary Lemanski will release her first full-length CD, "Eclectic." The album is a multifarious mix of pop, rock, dance, urban, and even, country. The listening experience is much like a personal mixtape. Throughout the album, Mary predominantly touches on many themes relating to relationships: losing touch with a best friend, difficult romances, the love of a parent for their child, finding that special someone, and the unity of all humanity in peace. She also shows a humorous side on the track, "Earworm," where she pokes some fun at the music industry. The album will be available through her website at http://www.marylemanski.com, as well as iTunes, Zune, CDBaby, Digstation, Amazon.com and more. Eclectic has a little bit of something for everyone to enjoy!

BIOGRAPHY

Mary began playing professionally at age 11, playing pipe organ. For the past 12 years, Mary has released her original music as MP3s on the Internet. In 2004, she placed runner-up in the Song of the Year Contest, had a Top 10 Hit on Broadjam.com's New Wave charts, and performed at the One World Festival in St. Cloud, MN. In 2005, she was showcased at Earth Mother Mind Jam in Tempe, AZ, the Putt Putt Pub Crawl in St. Louis, MO, and the Millennium Music Conference in Harrisburg, PA. In May 2006, Mary won honorable mention in the R&B/Hip-Hop category of the Song of the Year Contest.

Mary earned a Music/Business Administration degree from Millikin University, a certification in audio engineering from the Conservatory of Recording Arts & Sciences, and an MBA in e-Business from the University of Phoenix. She is the Chicago coordinator for Songsalive!, an international songwriting organization. Mary has worked widely in the music industry, including Epitaph Records, BMG Entertainment, Clear Channel Radio, Razormaid.com, and Rhino Staging. Mary has done songwriting, marketing, and image consultation for many record labels and individual artists. She wrote columns for GoGirlsMusic.com and LooseyLucy's Headquarters and opened for Marky Ramone & the Speed Kings, D.I., and Val Emmich. Mary currently teaches piano and performs classical and pop. Her other interests include spending time with her son, acting, dance, writing, and reading.

For more information, visit http://www.marylemanski.com

To request a copy of Eclectic for review, please email PaintedGirlRecords@gmail.com

Susan Barth's CD "Songs From The Suburbs" Available Today Through Major Music Retailers

Website: http://www.susanbarth.com

"Songs from the Suburbs", the latest record from Adult Contemporary singer-songwriter Susan Barth, is available for purchase today via major online retailers iTunes, Amazon, eMusic and Napster. Distributed by Oseao Media Group, this album is charming and endearing. With a retro songwriting style and a voice that ranges from sultry and sensuous, to playful and painful, always introspective and yet delightful, Susan Barth has carved a place for herself in the genre of Adult Contemporary music that recalls the glory days of 60's and 70's pop music.

"Songs From The Suburbs", is the kind of CD that almost everyone can relate to. The songs initially sound gentle and simple, but it is within the lyrics where the listener can find an entire world of hope and hurt, good and bad, all laced with catchy melodies, perfect harmonies, and just the right blend of rock and acoustic instruments. And her voice can sell every song, even when she is playing with dark suburban material.

Susan Barth - "Songs from the Suburbs"
iTunes - eMusic - AmazonMP3

"Songs from the Suburbs" track listing:

(1) Perfect Storm -
From the first line the song’s wry and self effacing charm is a pure throwback to the 60’s with a melody you can remember before the song is even halfway through and harmonies and tubas on the bridge that remind you of the golden age of radio songs.

(2) Sundays -
Chiming guitars, powerful piano chords mislead you for the intro and then the song turns a little sad but always keeps the melodies and the harmonies coming. A big favorite at live shows.

(3) Rainbows -
Again, a deceptive song that seems to be a wishful thinking nod to fairy land but there is a bitter twist in the lyrics that is at odds with the first impression of a simple rootsy mandolin tune.

(4) Sleeping In -
The startling, funky cello intro completely surprises the listener. A lush sweeping epic, beautifully arranged.

(5) And Yet -
Travis picked acoustic guitar, whimsical and sad it speaks to the lost dreams we all have from high school days. A gorgeous melancholy song that has echoes of Simon and Garfunkel. Another melody you will remember after hearing it once.

(6) One More Year -
The lyrics describe any suburban life, part sweet, part sour, mostly disappointed and a perfect example of a song from the suburbs.

(7) Chatsworth -
The one song on the CD that is an unapologetic electric guitar rock song, but filled with comedic descriptions of one particular suburb in Los Angeles. It rocks and it’s hilarious.

(8) 20,000 Self Help Books -
The dark and brooding intro is a clue to the quiet despair and failings of the subject in this song.

(9) How It Goes -
A whimsical fantasy of what might happen if the songwriter ever became famous, but tempered with a sad realization that it is just a fantasy.

(10) Wrong -
Nakedly emotional and raw, the song is very short and a damning reply to someone who has caused someone else a lot of pain.

(11) Gonna Do It -
A trippy little song of hope and belief that quietly affirms someone’s life despite all the dark dreams and broken promises of suburban life.

Adult Contemporary Singer Susan Barth Confirms March 23rd Release For Latest CD

Website: http://www.susanbarth.com
Music: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Susan-Barth/248506735080

Adult Contemporary singer-songwriter Susan Barth has confirmed the March 23rd release of her latest album "Songs From The Suburbs". She notes, "It took me 5 years to record "Songs from the Suburbs." It wasn't at all planned the way the others were. I just woke up one morning with 16 songs and tried to whittle it down when I wrote and recorded the 17th track... which opens this album."

Clever songwriting and arrangement, catchy hooks and well laid out instrumental parts are a feature of this latest album from Susan Barth. The harmonies have been executed with taste. Each track on this album has its own charm. To sum up, the overall approach to Susan's songwriting is quite simple - The delivery of each song leaves the listener with a good feeling despite the actual theme. She delves into fantasy, real life characters and even indulges in some introspection. In other words, Susan draws you in with her songwriting charm.

Barth's songs cross musical genres, going from folk tunes like "Rainbows" to rock songs like "Perfect Storm," even throwing in some pop, which keeps her listeners on their toes in anticipation of what's coming next. The instrumentation on "Songs From The Suburbs" have been effectively arranged to complement Susan's vocal style. Elements of Folk, Jazz, World, and Renaissance have been infused with her retro 70's pop style. As Susan aptly puts it "For better or worse, this album may be the most reflective of me as a person."

Susan's first three CDs captured the attention of the music industry, earning accolades. Her songs have landed in the finals in numerous songwriting contests, including the UK Songwriting Contest, Billboard Songwriting Contest and Unisong Song Contest. Susan was named Runner Up for Songwriter of the Year in 2006 and 2007 by DIY, one of the most respected indie artist networks, which also chose "Wonderland" as the 2005 Runner Up for Album of the Year. Susan has also been awarded 7 ASCAP Songwriting Merit Awards over the last few years. Her track "Perfect Storm" is expected to make the semi-finals for the Unisong 2009 contest.

http://www.susanbarth.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Susan-Barth/248506735080
http://www.myspace.com/susanbarth
http://twitter.com/susanbarthmusic

Contact:
Eric de Fontenay
MusicDish Network
Email: ecfont@musicdish.net

8th Annual Nashville SongWriters Fest Ramps Up For June Performances

Website: http://www.songwritersfestival.com

The 8th Annual, 2010 Nashville SongWriters Festival is several music happenings in one! Find your place in the mix. It’s part live original music festival, part music conference, part networking opportunity and part gathering of friends held June 4-6. The live performances, education and Open House are concurrently running events. Attendees can take in all or parts of the fest and "Play it by ear!"

Songwriters of all genres converge for The Nashville SongWriters Festival. Tunesmiths share their music on multiple stages and open Sing Rings. The fest is open to all forms of songwriting, from the novice to the professional. There are no pre qualifications to play or attend. Everyone is encouraged to come as they are. All attendees will have the opportunity to share their words or music and find their place in the mix.

While at the fest, writers can also attend Pro Instruction classes, workshops, Q & A sessions and other personal tid bits, all about the craft and business of songwriting.

An Open House is held by participating recording studios, publishers, song pluggers and other music related businesses where writers can drop by without an appointment to ask questions, exchange samples or discuss what part they play in the business of Music. Register your music related music business for the Open House or if you're a festival attendee, stop by and check out some of the industry.

For registered and non performing writers there will be a "Writer's Area" provided by the Fest near the information booth. At the display table attendees can deposit their CD'S and the fest staff will take inquiries or make sales for participants. Also drop off a copy of your songs in the Fest Drop Box where your materials will be forwarded to publishers.

Come to share your music and have fun playing the songs that you have written. While at the fest we hope you get inspired, reinvigorated, find co writers, network and write some new tunes. Most of all have fun. Music is not all business all of the time. But... if you think you have something that is potentially a commercial success.....enter the "Song Contest & Critiques". We want to recognize songwriter efforts and help get your material in the hands of publishers and recording artist of all sizes. We want to highlight talent and help make others better writers who are informed on what the industry is looking for..... Great Commercial Songs. There will be prizes plus entrants will also get their songs critiqued and commercial feed back. Entrants do not have to attend the Festival to enter the "Song Challenge & Critiques."

Another historical gathering begins to shape up as we throw down at this years congregation to celebrate the spirit of the songwriter. Many special guest and surprises await but as always, the real featured writer is you!

Registration is now officially open. Performing and Non performing songwriters, music related business, volunteers and the public wishing to participate in the June 4-6, 2010 activities can visit the web site at www.SongWritersFestival.com or Email: Popcorn@SongWritersFestival.com or call
615-424-1491 or 931-296-4067 for more info.

Deadline Approaching For 14th Annual USA Songwriting Competition

Deadline of the 14th Annual USA Songwriting Competition is fast approaching. Winning songs of the Competition will receive airplay on a nationally syndicated radio program "Acoustic Café" as well as XM Satellite Radio. This is the first Songwriting Competition that gives airplay to the winning songs, giving deserving bands, songwriters the recognition and exposure they deserve. Entrants stand to win a grand prize of over US$50,000 in cash and music gear from sponsors such as Sony, D’Addario Strings, Ibanez Guitars, Audio-Technica, IK Multimedia, Cakewalk and more, making this the largest prize package for any annual songwriting competition.

Many USA Songwriting Competition winners in the past have received recording and publishing contracts, have their songs placed on the charts as well as having their songs placed on film and television. 2008 Overall Grand Prize Winner Jordan Zevon was signed to New West Records and appeared on TV program "Late Night With David Letterman". 2007 Overall Grand Prize Winner Ari Gold had his winning song "Where The Music Takes You" hit #10 on the Billboard Dance Charts. 2005 First Prize winner (Pop) Kate Voegele was signed to Myspace/Interscope Records the year after she won and had her song at #68 on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts. Darrell Scott, winner of the country category of the 2005 USA Song writing Competition had his winning song cut by award winning country singer Faith Hill. Judges include A&R managers from record labels such as Warner, Capitol Records, Universal, BMG/SONY Music.

Sponsors include Sony, Audio-Technica, Ibanez Guitars, D'Addario Strings, New Music Weekly, Cakewalk, Sonicbids and Sam Ash Music Stores. Songs may be entered in 15 different categories including Pop, Rock/Alternative, R&B and Country. Entries are accepted from now through May 29, 2009.

For more information, visit:
http://www.songwriting.net/mi2n-songwriting-/

Jordan Zevon Wins 2008 USA Songwriting Competition

Jordan Zevon wins the Overall Grand Prize of the 2008 USA Songwriting Competition along with co-writers Jordan Summers & Morty Coyle. His winning song home will be on the USA Songwriting Competition's compilation CD this year. Jordan is a singer-songwriter from Los Angeles won 1st Prize in the 2006 USA Songwriting Competition but was not placed in the Overall Grand Prize, Overall 2nd Prize and Overall 3rd Prize at that time. This year Jordan improved to the Top position. He is signed to New West Records. His 2006 winning song "The Joke's On Me" is the first track on his debut album "Insides Out" with New West Records. He has also appeared on TV's "Late Night with David Letterman".

Nathan Brumley, a singer-songwriter from Nashville, TN won the Overall Second Prize with his song "Breath of My Soul". Hanneke Cassel, a violinist/composer from Boston, MA won the Overall Third Prize with her song "A Shadow And A Thought".

~FIRST FROM ISRAEL & MIDDLE EAST TO WIN
Yasmin Levy, became the first songwriter from Israel & the Middle East to ever win First Prize at the USA Songwriting Competition. She won the First Prize in the World category with her song "Me Voy".

Onno Krijn, Jeroen Zijlstra & Jeroen Kramer also became the first in their country (The Netherlands) to ever win first prize. They won the the Children's Category. Other first prize winners include: Jorge Lan, Madrid, SPAIN (1st Prize, Latin), Joey Avalos (1st Prize, Rock/Alternative), Pepper Mashay & Corey White (1st Prize, Dance/Electronica) and Lucy Wainwright Roche (1st Prize - Folk).

~TEEN PHENOM WINS HONORABLE MENTION AWARD TO CLINCH YOUNGEST WINNER
Sam Plotkin broke Kate Voegele's youngest record to win an award at the USA Songwriting Competition at just 15 years old. Kate was 18 years old when she entered the USA Songwriting Competition and won.

~MOST SONGS IN THE FINALS
Helle Hansen (DENMARK) holds the record of having the most number of songs placed in the finals for the second consecutive year, with 3 songs. She also won an honorable mention award. She is also one of the most consistent winners we had. She has won an honorable mention award each year since 2002.

Here is the complete winners' list:

OVERALL GRAND PRIZE:
Home - Jordan Zevon, Jordan Summers & Morty Coyle; Los Angeles, CA

OVERALL 2nd PRIZE:
Breath of My Soul - Nathan Brumley; Nashville, TN

OVERALL 3rd PRIZE:
A Shadow And A Thought - Hanneke Cassel; Boston, MA

FIRST PRIZES IN 15 INDIVIDUAL CATEGORIES
1st Prize - LATIN
Las minifaldas - Jorge Lan; Madrid, SPAIN

1st Prize - LYRICS
If I Had A Daughter - Terri Hendrix; Austin, TX

1st Prize - DANCE/ELECTRONICA
Does Yo Mama Know (You're A Freak) - Pepper Mashay & Corey White; Los Angeles, CA

1st Prize - POP
Home - Jordan Zevon, Jordan Summers & Morty Coyle; Los Angeles, CA

1st Prize - ROCK/ALTERNATIVE
Get Over It - Joey Avalos (Stars Go Dim); Broken Arrow, OK

1st Prize - R&B
Brand New Woman - Crystal Anderson; Mt. Vernon, NY

1st Prize - FOLK
Snare Drum - Lucy Wainwright Roche; New York, NY

1st Prize - COUNTRY
Month of Mondays - JD Dohnal & Mark Schaffel; Nashville, TN

1st Prize - GOSPEL/INSPIRATIONAL
Breath of My Soul - Nathan Brumley; Nashville, TN

1st Prize - INSTRUMENTAL
A Shadow And A Thought - Hanneke Cassel; Boston, MA

1st Prize - JAZZ
Samba Do Espião - Jason Wellington Black; Virginia Beach, VA

1st Prize - CHILDREN
Water - Onno Krijn, Jeroen Zijlstra & Jeroen Kramer; Amsterdam, THE NETHERLANDS

1st Prize - NOVELTY/COMEDY
Redneck Wannabe - Sherri Gough; Nashville, TN

1st Prize - HIP-HOP/RAP
Kingdom's Takin Over - Aaron Rodgers and Melvin Grice (NevaLukeWarm); Anchorage, AK

1st Prize - WORLD
Me Voy (I'm Leaving) - Yasmin Levy; Tel Aviv, ISRAEL

20 Honorable Mention Awards
1. Lost In The Music - Tom Watson (Transparent); AUSTRALIA
2. Mi Regalo - Martha de Quesada; Miami, FL
3. You Were Right - Sam Plotkin; Somers, CT
4. Underdog - Sherry St Germain; Toronto, CANADA
5. One - Jesse Dold (The Daylights); Dover, NH
6. Disintegrate - Andrew Mitchell (Sixpin); Lockport, NY
7. Believe It - Danny Stringer Jr, Brandi Womack, Cheyenne Womack (Babysister); Los Angeles, CA
8. All You've Got To Lose - Brigitte DeMeyer; Burlinggame, CA
9. You Were Drunk - Rose Polenzani; Boston, MA
10. My Own Hand - Jack Sundrud & Randy Handley; Nashville, TN
11. Backwards - Bill DiLuigi & Lonnie LeVelle; Nashville, TN
12. Hold Me - Laura McGreevey - Ridgefield, WA
13. You Believe In Me - Dan Yessian & Kurt Schreitmueller & David Barrett
14. Winter Flower - Shao Ying Low; SINGAPORE
15. All In Good Time - Heather Combs; San Francisco, CA
16. Honey Don't - Helle Hansen; Copenhagen, DENMARK
17. The Easter Bunny - Richard P Geere; Rowland Heights, CA
18. Morning Wood - Pat Sloan; Stafford, TX
19. 1 Step Away - Tom Prater; Hidden Valley Lake, CA
20. Contradição - Rogerio Maudonnet; Sao Paulo, BRAZIL

For more information on the 14th Annual USA Songwriting Competition, visit:
http://www.songwriting.net

Steve Negus Of SAGA To Release Solo Album Through Cyclone Records

Steve Negus, the powerhouse behind the multi-platinum selling prog rock band Saga for over 20 years has now released a solo project that captures his signature drumming and songwriting in uncompromising style.

Aptly called "Dare to Dream", the album is comprised of 11 tracks drawn from years of material written during and after the Saga era and is a very personal reflection on his career to date and in looking towards the future. Featuring a guest appearance by Jim Gilmour of Saga fame and also veterans Al Langlade and Mark Severn (who died shortly after the project was completed), the album is diverse and compelling, drawing the listener in with complex rhythms, insightful lyrics and catchy hooks.

Listen to Steve Negus' "Lust"

Steve Negus has this to say: "I have every confidence in label owner Brad Trew's abilities to represent my best interests with the release of my first solo CD "Dare to Dream" and subsequent releases. I see this relationship as a long term commitment on both of our parts to bring my music to the people. I am delighted to have Brad and his team as part of the Negus extended family."

Track Listing:
1. Lust
2. Catch My Fall
3. Dare to Dream
4. Nightmare
5. I Rest My Case
6. No Heaven, No Hell
7. As I Am
8. One Man's Army
9. Body and Soul
10. Satellites
11. Epitaph for Mark

About Steve Negus:
Steve Negus was co-founder of the multi-platinum selling progressive rock band SAGA. Having played with the band for over 20 years and released 17 studio albums, Steve has become a recognized drummer worldwide. Steve has also played with Chris de Burgh, Rupert Hine and was part of GNP (The Gilmour Negus Project) with fellow Saga band mate Jim Gilmour, Red Rider bassist Jeff Jones and Rob Bevan.

To keep up to date on the band, visit http://www.stevenegus.com or their label site at http://www.cyclonerecords.ca