News/Thoughts

Crowning It’s Last Recipients

After nearly 30 years of honoring songwriters, it appears the annual Chris Austin Songwriting Contest will be calling it quits. But not before awarding it’s 2020, and 2021 class – announced at the September 2021 edition of Merlefest.

Jim Lauderdale, the long-time contest coordinator and host, was also honored Saturday for his over twenty years of shared expertise, enthusiasm, and engagement.

First Place Winners for 2020

Gospel/Inspirational

Mark Atkinson (Charleston, W.Va.) – “Home”

Country

Sarah Jane Nelson (Nashville, Tenn.), Kenny Foster (Nashville, Tenn.) – “Sins of the Father”

Bluegrass

Aaron Burdett (Saluda, N.C.) – “Rockefeller”

General

Jomo Edwards (Austin, Texas) – “You Need It”

Firs Place Winners for 2021

Gospel/Inspirational

Daniel Davis (Bristol, Va.) – “Dear Lord”

Country

Ian Meadows (Higganum, Conn.), Dustin Meadows (Old Saybrook, Conn.) – “Trouble”

Bluegrass

Andrew Small (Floyd, Va.) – “Yesterday’s Blues”

General

Shay Martin Lovette (Boone, N.C.) – “For Rose Marie”