2010 SpiritFest Legends Songwriters Competition Frequently Asked Questions

Download the Competition Entry Form

» Download the Songwriters Competition Entry Form

When is the deadline to enter SFLSC?
The deadline is August 18, 2010. All entries must be postmarked/mailed on or before this date. The deadline is 11:59 pm EST on August 18.

Does my song have to be an original song?
Yes, SFLSC only accepts original songs. So, songs that were written by someone else or a long time ago (in public domain) may not be considered original, even if they are rearranged.

Is there a maximum time length to an entered song?
No, you may enter songs of any time length.

How much does it cost to enter?
Until August 18, the fee is $10 for the first entry and $5 for additional entries. For example, if you enter one song in a category, the fee is $10. But, if you enter one song in two categories (or two songs in one category), the fee is $15. If you enter three songs in one category (or three songs in different categories) the fee is $20. As you can see, each time you add a song, you will have to add $5.

Will SFLSC notify entrants that their entry has been received?
SFLSC sends out an email to all entrants notifying them that their entry has been received. However, as you know, email is not always 100% reliable, and sometimes is not received. This can happen for a variety of reasons: the email might be filtered out by a spam program (so check your junk mailbox), your server might be down, etc., etc. If your email addresses changes, please be sure to notify us, as email is the primary method SFLSC uses to communicate with entrants. If you do not receive any notification from SFLSC within a few weeks of sending out your entry, feel free to contact the SFLSC office at 864.420.2656 or email Spiritfest@eraypromotions.com to verify receipt.

How and when will winners be notified?
All entrants will receive notification of the finalists, and winners via email. Winners will be emailed and/or phoned. Finalists will be notified in August, 2010, and winners will be announced in September, 2010. Please do not call the SFLSC office to inquire about winners as it will slow down the process. If you do not receive an email, please check the website for updated information.

Does SFLSC give feedback?
SFLSC does not give feedback or a critique to entrants. Please do not ask for this service.

Does SFLSC notify entrants about the status of their entry during the process?
SFLSC will not be notifying any artists as to the judging status of their entry. All entrants will receive notification in August regarding the selection of finalist. Then, in September, winners will be announced.

Am I allowed to enter songs that have been entered into other songwriting competitions?
Yes, we welcome all songs, even if they have been entered (whether they won or not) into other songwriting competitions.

Do you have any specific instructions for the entry?
Please put all your songs on one CD or tape. It is more affordable for you and easier for us. Please make sure the names of the songs are clearly marked on the CD or tape case. If you are sending a CDR, please put a piece of masking tape on the spine of the case and write your name in black magic marker. Use a regular-sized case, not an ultra-thin one. Use the same procedure if you are sending in a cassette tape or video. Also, please make sure that the entrant's name is clearly marked directly on the CD, CDR, tape, or video. Finally, it will help us if you insert a track listing into the CD or tape case.

Do I have to enter recorded music or can I just enter sheet music?
It is necessary to enter recorded music except for the Lyrics Only category which is judged solely on the lyrics, no music.

How do I enter lyrics only?
Please send in two copies of the lyrics typed or neatly written. They do not need to be accompanied by music, but if you prefer, you may also send in the song on CD or tape. Do not include sheet music, chords, or any other kind of musical notation - only the lyrics. Specifying the type of music the lyrics are written for is not required and will not affect the judging process.

Does SFLSC own my song once I have entered it?
No, absolutely not. The entrant retains ALL rights to the songs, and SFLSC does NOT own the song or any rights to it.

May I enter a song that I wrote if the rights to it are owned by a publishing company?
Yes, but make sure to get permission from the publishing company. If the song is selected as a winner, you will be required to send SFLSC their signed approval.

May I enter a song that has been released before on a CD?
Yes, of course, as long as you own the rights to the song, or can get permission from the copyright owner.