Nashville Rising Song is returning this fall for a brand-new series. We're actively searching for the perfect Nashville location — sign up to be the first to know when dates and venue are announced.
Early stages for GAYLE · Kelsea Ballerini · Colton Dixon · Dani Elliott
Nashville Rising Song started in 2005 in Franklin, Tennessee. Over the years, we've hosted hundreds of rounds with thousands of songwriters coming through. For many, performing at our event was the very first time they ever performed in Nashville. That makes us very happy!
The event was created and is directed by Keith Mohr.
Up to 21 songwriters a night, one original song each.
One chosen by a panel of music-industry judges on songwriting alone, one chosen by the audience in the room and on the livestream.
Fourteen songwriters perform, four advance.
Four finalists play four original songs each for cash and prizes.
For more than a decade, the Nashville Rising Song stage has introduced standout songwriters and artists — several of whom have gone on to record deals, publishing opportunities, national touring, major showcases, and high-level industry collaborations.
Winner of our very first series, he went on to become the lead singer for the country group “The Lost Trailers.” Jason also co-wrote the Kid Rock hit, “We The People.” Jason now is a sought after songwriter/producer with his production company, “We The People.”
Grand-prize winner who has built a successful songwriting career, including No. 1 songs such as Nate Smith's “Whiskey on You” and Elvie Shane's “My Boy.” He is now associated with Sony Music Publishing and Droptine Publishing.
A past finalist who went on to sign with Kara DioGuardi's Arthouse Entertainment, the artist-development company behind writers and artists including GAYLE, Ingrid Andress, and Jon Bellion. Gayle also co-wrote the #1 smash hit “ABCDE-FU.”
An early Nashville Rising standout who became one of country music's leading artists, with seven No. 1 singles, 40 RIAA certifications, six Grammy nominations, ACM and CMA wins, and Grand Ole Opry membership.
Signed with EMI Christian Music Group/Sparrow Records following his rise on American Idol. He later signed with Atlantic Records and has remained an award-winning recording artist in contemporary Christian music.
Earned a Warner Chappell publishing deal and toured with country artist Billy Currington.
Built an international songwriting and artist career, including writing with legendary songwriter Burt Bacharach and premiering their co-written song, “I'm Still Here,” with him at the London Palladium.
We connected Dani to Miley Cyrus' Bangerz World Tour as a backing vocalist, performing internationally and appearing in major televised performances, including the Billboard Music Awards, Saturday Night Live, and the Chelsea Lately series finale.
Finalist in Series 2 who signed with Nashville Underground and later recorded in Hollywood with 13-time Grammy-winning producer Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds.
Previous winners who have performed at notable Nashville songwriter and artist showcases, including Revival 615, Nashville Tour Stop, and Whiskey Jam. Nashville Tour Stop presents original artists and songwriters across Nashville venues, while Whiskey Jam has a long track record of featuring artists before they become widely known.
We are deeply thankful for the venues that have hosted our events across various locations over the years.
Puckett's Grocery (Franklin)
Kings Bowl's Whiskey Room Live (Cool Springs)
Nashville Underground (Gavin DeGraw)
Live Oak on Demonbruen
Tin Roof on Demonbruen
The Dogwood in Midtown
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