A staple in the international songwriting calendar, the Vanda & Young Global Song Comp returns for its twelfth edition. Renowned for discovering and championing songwriting talent worldwide, the 2024 competition attracted entries from over 52 countries. All funds raised support the transformative work of Noro Music Therapy.
Since its inception in 2009, the competition has launched and celebrated songwriters across various career stages, many of whom are now among contemporary music’s most acclaimed artists. Notable alumni include King Stingray, Budjerah, Charley, Genesis Owusu, MAY-A, Baker Boy, Thelma Plum, Ruel, Matt Corby, Sarah Aarons, Amy Shark, Gang of Youths, Mallrat, Gretta Ray, and many more.
This year’s first prize offers a career-changing $50,000, with $10,000 awarded to second place, and $5,000 to third. In addition, there is a special prize exclusively for unsigned and unpublished Australasian songwriters of $5,000.
Returning to spotlight, emerging global talent, 10 additional prizes of $1,000 each will be awarded to promising songwriters. Other prizes include a White Les Paul Special Tribute (valued at $2,999), a Neumann TLM 102 studio microphone (valued at $1,399), and Neumann NDH30 headphones (valued at $1,299).
Early Bird entries are now open until Monday 25 August. During this period, songwriters can enter three songs for the price of two, increasing their chances of winning, and one songwriter who enters in this period will also receive a Gibson Guitar White Les Paul Special Tribute valued at $2,999. Entries are welcome in any language, genre, or production stage — whether demo, fully produced, released, or unreleased — and must be songs written or co-written by the entrant.
The entry fee is AUD$50 (US$33) per song, with submissions accepted worldwide. The competition closes on Monday 15 September. For more information and to enter, visit globalsongcomp.com
