We're excited to announce the Overall Winners of the 2025 Wide Open Country Song Contest. After careful consideration, our panel of judges selected a Grand Prize Winner, along with First and Second Place winners in each category.
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Congratulations to all of the talented songwriters featured below. Your work truly stood out.Thank you to everyone who entered and shared their music with us. Details about the next Wide Open Country Song Contest will be announced soon, including new judges and prizes. Stay tuned for what's coming next.
GRAND PRIZE WINNER:
"Some Hearts Catch All The Breaks" By Dolan and Rob Alley
"1 year ago, almost exactly to the day, I left my career of 15 years to officially take the leap and pursue music as an artist and songwriter full-time. It's been scary at times, but moments like this help solidify that decision as the right one. When my good friend and co-writer, Rob Alley and I finished this one, I knew we had something special and immediately decided to cut it myself. I had no idea it would go on to do something like this, so thank you American Songwriter, Wide Open Country, all of the judges, and of course, my co-writer Rob Alley. Be real, and be authentic and people will notice."
ALT COUNTRY 1ST PLACE:
"Tequila Knows Me" By Shawnee Kish
ALT COUNTRY 2ND PLACE:
"Heavens Eyes" By Chris Boldt
BLUEGRASS 1ST PLACE:
"Northern Lives" By Richard Christow
BLUEGRASS 2ND PLACE:
"Fork & Spoon" By Emily McLoud
HIP HOP COUNTRY 1ST PLACE:
"Raise it to the Morning Light" By The Olson Bros Band
HIP HOP COUNTRY 2ND PLACE:
"LONE COWBOY" By K-RU$H
MODERN COUNTRY 1ST PLACE:
"John Wayne in a Prom Dress" By Eryn Michel
MODERN COUNTRY 2ND PLACE:
"Ain't That Guy" By Joey Falcone
TRADITIONAL COUNTRY 1ST PLACE:
"Long Gone Train" By Jesse Lovelock
TRADITIONAL COUNTRY 2ND PLACE:
"Two Story House" By Brad Hunnings
