Tennessee Songwriters Qualifying Round – Jackson Winners John Butler and Trevor Wilson
The Carnegie Center for Arts and History and Jackson: Hidden Tracks hosted an official TN Songwriters Week Qualifying Round on Saturday, February 8, 2025. Judges Ray Barnette, David McCall, and Ej Shelton cast their votes.
John Butler won first prize in the competition with his song, “Blasphemy”. Trevor Wilson came in second with his song, “Not Catching It”. They will advance to the showcase round at Lafayette’s Music Room on February 25, 2025, and have the chance to perform at The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville in March. The songwriters will be judged by peers in the music industry.
The finalists from the showcases (seven total, one from each showcase) will get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to perform their original songs on the historic stage of The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville on March 30, 2025. Finalists will also receive additional prizes, including a one-year NSAI membership and a commemorative branded guitar.
To view the 2025 TN Songwriters Qualifying Round in Jackson, TN, click here.
Wade Mathias and Blair Sage competed and placed third with their original song, “Wilt”. Chance Mitchell placed fourth with his original rap, “Blue Suede Shoes”.
Additional songwriters who shared their best original music include Aaron Pulvermacher, Kenny Little, Shane Wofford, Michual Timby, Justin Pack, Chuck Maxwell, Rita Perry, Austin Varner, Michael Smith, Rebecca Simpson, Justin William, Robert Lovelace, and Adam Champion.
The Tennessee Songwriters Week showcases will take place February 23 – March 1, 2025, inspiring travelers to experience Tennessee’s rich music history, attractions, and venues. Tennessee Songwriters Week celebrates the legacy of songwriters, supports music venues, and honors Tennessee’s seven homegrown genres of music. It highlights the artistry of past and present musicians while paving the way for future talents.
For more information contact Jackson: Hidden Tracks, an initiative of Visit Jackson, TN, at 731-425-8333.
