• Click here to purchase $75 entry ticket for up to three original songs, then complete your submission form here.

CLICK HERE TO GRAB TICKETS FOR THE LIVE SONGWRITER COMPETITION PEFORMANCES.  HOUSTONLIVE  IS TEAMING UP WITH THE BONFIRE TEXAS FOR AN EXITING DAY FULL OF LIVE ORIGINAL MUSIC FROM OUR COMPETITORS AND OTHER AWARD-WINNING TEXAS SINGER-SONGWRITERS!  

• The HoustonLive contest opens for entry on August 14, 2023 and entry period will close at midnight (CST) October 27, 2023. 
• If you would like to perform during our live auditions , please indicate in your submission form after you have purchased the $75 entry fee.  Find the submission form here.
• Songs submitted must not have been entered in a previous Songfest competition.  Submit up to three original songs per entry.
• There is a $75 nonrefundable fee to enter the contest per person.  This fee includes admission for finalists to November 10th event and one song submission.  Individual tickets for guests are $10 each to have acces to the songwriter bullpen seating area.   If you are a member of HoustonLive you will receive a discount code for entry fee.  Watch for that and if you have not received, then email us at info@houstonlive.tv to let us know!
• Note all HSA members can submit for $50 using this link.  You can also ask your HSA contact for the link.
• As part of your application process, record and perform a chord and verse recorded on your phone (video and audio) of your new song and post on any social media and tag us @songfesttx @houstonlivetm #songfest2023
• Contestants must reside in Texas at time of entry and event.  Proof of address may be requested.
• All entries submitted must be original song and shall not infringe any copyrights or any other rights of any third parties. Songs may have multiple co-writers, but only one name should be designated as the Entrant on the entry form. All songwriters must be listed on the entry form in the field requesting the names of the songwriters. Please list the full name of the songwriter(s) - do not use initials. Entrant shall, by entering, indemnify and hold HoustonLive harmless from and against any claims inconsistent with the foregoing.
• Genres accepted include Folk, Americana, Pop, Christian, Christian/Country, Country, Blues, Singer songwriter, Indie, Independent, Rock, Rhythm and Blues, Classic Rock, Alternative, Jazz fusion, Country Rock.  Family friendly content only please.
• Each entrant must submit lyrics and MP3’s for a maximum of 3 songs. This is important because only songs submitted with the entry can be performed in the contest. A song is defined as a melody with lyrics. Songs may be no longer than five minutes in length and 5mb in file size. Also, when possible, include a link to a live performance, preferably of one or more of the songs submitted into the contest.
• By October 30, 2023, semifinalists will be notified of being selected for HoustonLive via phone and/or email. Note there will be one wild card entry that will be announced at the show. Must be able to be present for wild card selection to be selected and entered.  
• The semifinalists must commit to being present for the live competition performance In the Houston area on November 10, 2023 at McIntyre's Downtown. 
• Prizes will be awarded to all participants immediately after the announcement of top 3 finalists in the Finals round.
• Each entrant retains all rights to his or her submitted songs.
• Contestants may have a maximum of one accompanist (instrumental, harmony or a combination of both).  You may have an option of a house band, please inquire if interested.
• Co-written songs may be submitted; however, only one of the writers may submit an application and perform the song on day of contest.
• Songs submitted must have copyright/written within the past 3 years.
• All entries will be considered. Submissions which have lyrics deemed inappropriate for family listening by the event organizers shall be disqualified. HoustonLive Songfest is a family-friendly event.
• Participants in HoustonLive agree that HoustonLive will have the right to publicize the names and likenesses of the participants.
• If you are interested in co-publishing with sister organization Launch Music Lab please email us at info@houstonlive.tv.
• If you are interested in submitting your song for the non-performance competition, please indicate that in your entry!
• Contestants must be over 21.  Note our separate Rising Star Showcase is open to under 21 and will be announced soon.  Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page for details.  
• Entrants retain all rights to their own songs.