2026 LMSF "20 & Under Competition" ENTRY APPLICATION!

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Please note: To compete in this competition, singer-songwriters must be 20 years old or under as of competition date, July 24, 2026.

The multi-day songwriter’s festival features 30 artists at multiple venues ranging from intimate listening rooms to spacious outdoor stages all around Alabama’s Treasured Lake, Lake Martin. Apply to be a part of this fifth annual event that includes established touring artists as well as those that are up and coming. Music from all genres is welcome! This application allows us to collect information on artists ages 20 & under who are interested in a chance to perform on the Lake Martin Songwriter's Festival Stages!

The 20 & Under Singer-Songwriter Competition will be held Friday, July 24, 2026 beginning at approximately 5:30 PM CT at Prime Steakhouse & Catering in Dadeville, Alabama. The LMSF Committee will review entry applications and select ten (10) acts to compete and perform two (2) songs on the Friday Night Stage at Prime Steakhouse. If selected the winner of Friday night's 20 & Under Singer-Songwriter Competition, you will be invited to perform on stage Saturday evening, July 25, 2026 at approx. 5:45 PM CT before the Marcus King Band Concert at the Lake Martin Amphitheater!

• Singer-songwriters must be 20 years old or under as of competition date, July 24, 2026
• Singer-songwriters will be asked to perform one song they wrote and a second song of their choosing (does not have to be one they wrote)
• A scholarship to the Jeffrey Steele Academy Bootcamp (https://www.jeffreysteeleacademy.com/) will be awarded in addition to your invitation to perform on Saturday night's stage
• Artists will be highlighted on social media
• Contestants are welcome to sell merchandise and promote themselves at Friday evening's competition before and after competition
• Contestant winner will be able to sell their merchandise at Saturday night's show as well
• Backline equipment will be provided at venue
• No fee required to apply

We do not work through booking agencies or management companies. We communicate directly with the artist and/or guardian.  Applications are due by June 5, 2026 at 11:59 PM CT.  

• Verification of the receipt of the application will be returned via email
• All applicants will receive a response via email by July 1, 2026 
• Due to high volume, please do not inquire about the status of your application

Call (256) 215-3067 with any questions about the festival or the application process!