How to Submit Your Music to International Awards: A Step-by-Step Guide

Everything independent musicians need to know about preparing songs, choosing categories, and entering international music competitions.

Submitting music to an international award can feel intimidating, particularly if you have never entered a professional competition.

Fortunately, many international music awards allow musicians to apply directly online without a manager, record label, or industry representative.

To submit music to an international competition, you generally need an eligible song or performance, a suitable category, a playable recording, accurate artist and songwriter information, and a completed application. Requirements vary by organizer, so reviewing the official rules is essential.

Here is how to prepare a strong submission.

Step 1: Choose a Competition That Matches Your Music

Not every competition evaluates the same qualities.

Some recognize songwriting, while others focus on performance, production, or overall artistic achievement.

For example, the John Lennon Songwriting Contest concentrates on composition and songwriting. The InterContinental Music Awards recognizes original music across international genres and also provides categories for vocal, instrumental, and production-related accomplishments.

Look beyond the competition’s name. Review the categories, judging criteria, previous winners, and benefits to determine whether your work is a good fit.

Step 2: Select Your Strongest Song

Your most popular release is not necessarily your strongest competition entry.

Choose a track that best demonstrates your artistic strengths.

Consider:

• Does the song have a memorable musical identity?
• Is its composition coherent and engaging?
• Does the performance communicate emotion and intention?
• Is the recording sufficiently clear to evaluate?
• Does the music demonstrate originality or a distinctive cultural influence?

Ask trusted musicians or producers for constructive feedback before making the final selection.

When submitting an album or EP, select tracks strategically instead of assuming every song is equally competitive.

Step 3: Understand Eligibility and Ownership

International competitions may accept original compositions, previously released recordings, instrumental works, or performances of existing music.

However, the rules are not universal.

For original music, confirm that you have the necessary rights to submit the recording and composition. Include accurate songwriter and collaborator credits.

If your recording contains samples, licensed material, or third-party content, ensure your use is properly authorized.

For cover performances, verify that the competition permits them in the selected category and understand any licensing requirements.

At ICMA, original music submissions and music performance entries have different eligibility considerations, including provisions for cover performances.

You can review the official ICMA rules.

Step 4: Select the Right Genre or Award Category

Category selection can influence how your work is evaluated.

A jazz-influenced electronic composition may fit several musical descriptions, but the best choice is usually the category that most accurately represents its defining characteristics.

Consider rhythm, instrumentation, vocal approach, arrangement, and artistic tradition.

Some competitions also distinguish songwriting from vocal performance, instrumental performance, or production.

ICMA additionally organizes music through continental and cultural classifications, including Pangea for certain globally oriented genres.

If you are uncertain, contact the organizer rather than selecting an unrelated category simply because it appears less competitive.

Step 5: Prepare a Reliable Audio File

Your submission should be easy for judges to access and evaluate.

Before uploading:

• Export the required audio format.
• Confirm the file size meets the competition’s limits.
• Listen to the entire recording after exporting.
• Check that the file plays correctly on another device.
• Use a recognizable filename.
• Ensure any submitted streaming link works without special access.

Do not confuse excessive loudness with higher quality. A balanced, intelligible recording is more useful than one pushed into distortion simply to sound louder.

For ICMA, the submission form provides specific upload and supported-link instructions. Always follow the requirements shown during your entry.

Step 6: Prepare Your Artist and Songwriter Information

Many submission problems result from incorrect administrative details rather than musical shortcomings.

Have the following ready:

• Artist or band name.
• Song title.
• Full songwriter and composer credits.
• Country and relevant category information.
• Active email address.
• Required parental consent for underage entrants.
• Information about any AI tools used, where disclosure is required.

If you are submitting on behalf of a band or collaborative project, agree in advance who will serve as the official contact.

Accurate credits help organizers communicate correctly and recognize the people responsible for the music.

Step 7: Review Fees, Feedback, and Deadlines

Entry fees vary considerably between competitions.

Before paying, determine whether the fee covers one song, one category, or multiple entries. Check whether feedback is included or sold separately.

For example, ICMA offers an optional paid Professional Song Review and Analysis service during submission. This is separate from entering the competition and is not required for judging.

Read the refund policy and retain your confirmation email or receipt.

Step 8: Submit, Confirm, and Prepare for the Results

After completing the application, check that the payment was successful and your entry was received.

Keep a copy of:

• Your submitted audio.
• The application details.
• Your receipt or confirmation.
• The competition’s rules.
• Important announcement dates.

Continue promoting your music independently while waiting for results. A competition submission should complement your music career, not put it on hold.

Common Music Submission Mistakes

Avoid selecting an inappropriate category, providing expired private links, omitting co-writers, using uncleared copyrighted material, or overlooking AI disclosure requirements.

Another common mistake is submitting an unfinished recording simply to meet a deadline. If the competition allows future entries, a polished song may be more valuable than a rushed submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a professionally recorded song?

Not always. Some competitions emphasize songwriting and accept demos. Others consider performance and production quality. Review the judging criteria before entering.

Can I enter music that has already been released?

Many competitions permit released music, but restrictions differ. Check the rules on release dates and previous entries.

Can international musicians submit songs in languages other than English?

Many international competitions welcome multilingual music. Check whether lyric translations are requested or recommended.

Final Thoughts

Submitting your music internationally is a practical way to seek professional recognition beyond your local market.

The strongest applications combine artistic preparation, accurate information, and an understanding of how the selected competition evaluates music.

Ready to enter? Review the ICMA submission guidelines and submit your music online.

 

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