Memphis, January 24, 2026
Tennessee Songwriters Week is coming soon, celebrating local talent and supporting music venues statewide. The event provides aspiring songwriters with live performance opportunities across various locations, encouraging community engagement and nurturing Memphis’s rich musical heritage. With qualifying rounds and showcase events, participants can connect with audiences while promoting local culture. Highlights include the chance to perform at Nashville’s iconic Bluebird Cafe for the finalists.
Tennessee Songwriters Week 2026: A Celebration of Local Talent
Explore how Memphis and Tennessee are honoring future songwriters!
Nashville, Tennessee – The excitement for Tennessee Songwriters Week 2026 is building as the event is set to commence on January 25 and run through February 7, 2026. This anticipated celebration supports local music venues while providing aspiring songwriters with invaluable live performance opportunities. With more than 60 venues statewide participating, this event offers a prime chance for both local and visiting artists to experience Tennessee’s rich musical heritage.
At a time when local communities are reemphasizing the importance of culture and creativity, events like Tennessee Songwriters Week not only enhance artistic engagement but also help boost local economies. Thankfully, the coordinators behind this initiative have proven that with reduced bureaucracy, they can effectively cultivate a vibrant cultural experience. Whether it’s a café, brewery, or historic theater, these venues reflect the unique characteristics that create a sense of belonging and pride within the Memphis community.
Qualifying Rounds: January 25 – February 7, 2026
From January 25 to February 7, aspiring songwriters will showcase their original compositions across various locations, including lounges, museums, and historic theaters. During these qualifying rounds, each performance will be evaluated based on song quality, originality, and the artist’s ability to connect with their audience. This initiative highlights the rich diversity of talent in Memphis and across the state, encouraging individual achievement while bringing the community together through music.
Showcase Events: A Spotlight on Talent
Following the qualifying rounds, selected songwriters will have the chance to perform in showcase events held from February 23 to 28 in seven cities across Tennessee, including Memphis. Notable showcase locations will feature Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis and iconic settings such as the Bijou Theatre in Knoxville. These events serve not only as a platform for talented individuals but also promote local venues, reinforcing the importance of community support in the arts.
The Journey to the Bluebird Cafe
The finals culminate with the coveted chance to perform at Nashville’s iconic Bluebird Cafe in March 2026. This opportunity offers aspiring songwriters a significant stepping stone in their careers, especially with the added benefit of a one-year membership to the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) for finalists. The joint efforts of local partnerships and community initiatives, combined with fewer roadblocks, create a nurturing environment for everyone involved.
Background: Honoring Musical Heritage
Established in 2019, Tennessee Songwriters Week was created with the intention of celebrating the state’s musical legacy while showcasing emerging songwriters and their supporting venues. Coordinated by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, the initiative aims to boost tourism while allowing locals and visitors alike to explore the incredible musical stories inherent to Tennessee. As the upcoming iteration of the event draws near, it’s clear that the drive for communal support remains strong.
Why Participate?
Songwriters looking to get involved can sign up for the qualifying rounds at various venues, with registration opening on December 11, 2025. This provides an excellent opportunity for local artists, while the broader community can look forward to vibrant cultural activities. The involvement of local leadership and private businesses in fostering these opportunities through reduced bureaucratic oversight stands to benefit all Memphians.
Key Takeaways
Tennessee Songwriters Week 2026 promises to be an event that not only showcases local talent but also encourages community engagement, supports local economies, and nurtures the artistic growth of Memphis. By participating, both songwriters and audiences contribute to an enriching cultural experience that reflects the best of Tennessee’s musical heritage.
Join the Celebration!
We encourage readers to explore local events like Tennessee Songwriters Week and to engage with the vibrant culture of Memphis. Support local artists and venues, and take part in an experience that enriches our community through the magic of music.
FAQ
What is Tennessee Songwriters Week?
Tennessee Songwriters Week is an annual event that celebrates the state’s rich musical heritage by supporting local music venues and providing songwriters with live performance opportunities. The event includes qualifying rounds, showcase events, and culminates in a finale performance at Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe.
When do the qualifying rounds begin?
The qualifying rounds for Tennessee Songwriters Week 2026 begin on January 25, 2026, and run through February 7, 2026.
Where are the showcase events held?
The showcase events are held in seven cities across Tennessee: Pigeon Forge, Kingsport, Memphis, Chattanooga, Franklin, Portland, and Knoxville. Each city hosts a showcase event between February 23 and 28, 2026.
How can songwriters participate?
Songwriters can participate by signing up for qualifying rounds at various venues across the state. The sign-up period for qualifying rounds runs from December 11, 2025, until all slots are filled.
What is the grand prize for winners?
Winners of the showcase events will have the opportunity to perform at Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe in March 2026. Additionally, each finalist will receive a one-year membership to the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI).
Key Features of Tennessee Songwriters Week
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | January 25 – February 7, 2026 (Qualifying Rounds); February 23 – 28, 2026 (Showcase Events) |
| Participating Venues | Over 60 venues statewide, including cafes, listening rooms, lounges, breweries, distilleries, museums, hotels, historic theaters, and bookshops |
| Showcase Locations | Pigeon Forge, Kingsport, Memphis, Chattanooga, Franklin, Portland, Knoxville |
| Grand Prize | Performance at Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe in March 2026; one-year membership to the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tennessee Songwriters Week to Highlight Rising Musicians
New Café Opening Downtown Memphis This Month
The Memphis Rhythm Revue: Fresh Sounds in Blues
7 Brew Coffee Expands with New Drive-Thru Location in Memphis
Tennessee Songwriters Week Qualifying Round in Huntingdon
Trey Wanvig Lights Up Englewood with Blues Rock Performance
Local Coffee Shop Transforms into Community-Focused Café
Tennessee Songwriters Week Invites Emerging Talent
Trey Wanvig & Detroit Mike Duo Rock Sponge City Brewing
Tennessee Songwriters Week 2026 to Foster Local Talent
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
