Tennessee Songwriters Week is a celebration of the songwriters and craft that put Tennessee on the map, celebrated with qualifying rounds, then showcases during the last full week of February. The goal of Tennessee Songwriters Week is to support music venues, support songwriters with live performances, drive visitation and inspire travelers to experience the state’s music stories, history, attractions and venues.

Here are some guidelines specific to the qualifying round in Cleveland, Tennessee. 

• Each artist will perform one original song with music and lyrics.
• No more than three performers will be on stage at one time and one of those performers must be the songwriter.
• No drums that require setup will be allowed in the performances. Only handheld, carryon drums will be allowed.
• No soundcheck or warm up time on stage is provided. A green room will be provided for tuning and warm up.
• Fourteen songwriters whose submission is received and vetted by a screening committee will be selected to perform.
• The sample of your work submitted upon application does not have to be the song that will be entered into competition.
• You may only register for one qualifying round. Space is limited and you cannot take up space at two qualifying events. Registration lists are shared with state organizers.
• The winners of our Qualifying Round in Cleveland, TN will advance to the Showcase Round at the Bijou Theater in Knoxville.

Important Dates:

• Feb. 7, 2026 – Our Qualifying Round will be at the Museum and Cultural Center at 5ive Points
• Feb. 28, 2026 – Our Qualifiers will advance to the Bijou Showcase Round in Knoxville.