SONA MEMBERS
It’s official: applications are now open for the Emerging Songwriter Award, presented by YouTube Songwriters! Created by songwriters, for songwriters, this first-of-its-kind honor celebrates a rising SONA Member—and puts the decision in the hands of the SONA community. Five nominees will be recognized, but only one will be named this year’s honoree, live on stage at the SONA Awards.
Could it be you—or a songwriter you know?
Qualifications:
- Songwriter must have at least three publicly released songs in the past two years
- Songwriter must have at least 3 outside cuts (songs cut by another artist)
- Nominees must have an active SONA membership to be considered.
Songwriters who are not yet members may join SONA before the deadline in order to qualify. Membership status will be verified
All nominations must be received by August 14, 2026.
A panel of SONA judges will narrow down the submissions and vote for 5 Finalists.
What Finalists will receive:
- Dedicated 1:1 channel strategy and optimization session with YouTube Songwriters
- Eligible for priority invitations to YouTube Songwriters events (e.g. writing camps, masterclasses)
- SONA and YouTube facilitated connections to other nominees and winners
- Two Tickets to The 2026 SONA Awards
- Eligible to perform at select SONA Events
All nominations must be received by August 14, 2026.
Finalists will receive a package which includes priority invitations to YouTube events like writing camps and masterclasses, dedicated strategy sessions with the YouTube team, SONA and YouTube curated stewardship with SONA Award nominees and winners, the opportunity to perform at select SONA events, and more.
Please note: Travel, accommodations, and transportation are not provided.
If you are or know of an Emerging Songwriter, visit the link below
If you are or know of an emerging Songwriter, click here to apply.