Calling all aspiring Christian musical artists! Have you heard about the world’s only premier music awards dedicated to aspiring Christian artists? Firstfruits Music Competition was first launched in July 2022 in an effort to address the lack of recognition and support aspiring Christian artists receive.
Former Excelsia Music lecturer Jay Laga’aia is one of the six judges, along with other international judges Dave Thompson, Muyiwa Olarewaju, Alvin Taylor, Graeme Press and another to be announced. All judges were selected as they affirm the values, ethics and music standards statement and honour God. Applicants can enter up to five different songs, and the song submission evaluation criteria include originality (covers are not accepted), Scriptural content, song lyrics, song melody, song arrangement, performance, and commercial viability. The song’s purpose must be to both bless the Lord and edify the listener. It must also accurately reflect biblical content, being of a godly nature. ‘A cappella songs’ without instrumental accompaniment are also welcome.
Global submissions are limited to 5,000 artists and the top 24 highest scoring songs will receive public exposure. Artists in the top 12 may also be able to network with industry professionals in the music business.
The Grand Prize winner will receive £25,000 in cash (approximately AU$43,000) and the prestigious winner’s Firstfruits Music Awards trophy. The finalist will receive £5,000 in cash (approximately AU$8,500) together with the prestigious finalist trophy. For non-UK entrants, the equivalent is paid in the artist’s local currency. On top of this, £5,000 (approximately AU$8,500) will be donated towards Gospel-led missions, generated by the proceeds of the event. As Colossians 3:17 says, ‘And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.’
The competition deadline is 31 July 2023 or whenever 5,000 song submissions have been reached! The entry fee is £25 (approximately AU$40) per song regardless of multiple submissions and there is no maximum time limit placed on songs. To enter, head to the following link https://www.firstfruits.co/enter
