HERMITAGE SPRINGS-Songwriters will have another opportunity to put their talents on display here next month, and they could ultimately earn a once-in-a-lifetime chance to share their original songs on the historic stage at The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville.

The Friday, February 7 local singing competition is one of many being held across the state to select qualifiers to take part in Tennessee Songwriters Week Showcase events set for February 23-28.

This is the second year a qualifying round has been held here in Clay County, with the first coming in 2024 at the Clay County Fairgrounds.

Like before, two local winners will move on to one of seven Showcase venues, which include Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis, The Bijou Theatre in Knoxville, Hard Rock Cafe in Pigeon Forge, The Reserve inn Kingsport, Barrelhouse Ballroom in Chattanooga, Temple Theatre in Portland, and Franklin Theatre in Franklin.

The showcase events highlight seven distinct musical regions that have played a major role in the musical development of Tennessee across a diverse range of genres including blues, bluegrass, country, gospel, soul, rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll.

One finalist from each showcase will be chosen to perform at Nashville’s iconic Bluebird Cafe during a private event in March.  Each of the finalists will also receive additional prizes, including a one-year membership to Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI).

Songs will be judged by quality of the song (original lyrics/melody and clear narrative) and performance (ability to understand lyrics and connection with the audience).

Former Tennessee Songwriters Week finalists include DEK of Hearts (famous for their breathtaking four-chair turn currently on NBC’s The Voice), Jon Wayne Hatfield (who recently signed with Big Machine Music and Red Creative Group), Maura Streppa (who just released her sophomore EP “The Skinnier Tapes”) and Memphis songwriter Rodrick Duran.

The local qualifier, titled “Ink & Strings of Clay County,” will begin at 6 p.m. here at Painted Pig Pizza, and the competition is open to all songwriters.

“You do not have to live in Clay County or even be a Tennessee resident,” local organizers said,  “You only must be 18 (years old), so sign up for the Tennessee Songwriters Competition!

“Join us for an unforgettable night celebrating original music and the storytellers behind it.”

Registration for the local qualifier can be completed at the Clay County Chamber of Commerce or online at tnsongwritersweek.com.  Also visit Facebook.com/Clay.County.TN.Chamber for an online sign-up link.

Tennessee Songwriters Week was established in 2019, when a state statute passed to designate the last full week of February each year, typically a slow time for travel, as Tennessee Songwriters Week.

The goal is to support music venues, support songwriters with live performances across the state, and drive visitation and inspire travelers to experience the state’s music stories, history, attractions, and venues.