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KING Sings for a Dream

2nd Annual Singer-Songwriter Competition 2026! 

About

Partnerships for Children is seeking talented artists to participate in "KING Sings for a Dream," a peer-to-peer fundraising competition that uses the power of music to support a great cause. This competition benefits Kids in a New Groove (KING), a music mentoring program serving Central Texas youth who have experience in the child welfare system. KING provides these students with one-on-one mentoring through free, weekly private music lessons, helping them transform their lives through connection and creativity.

This competition allows talented artists to showcase their original music while raising awareness and vital funds for the KING program.

How it works

The competition unfolds in two public voting rounds, followed by a Judging Round.

  • All entries qualify for Round 1.
  • Vote for any entry daily for free!
  • Supporters can donate to vote for their favorite artists, with every dollar helping an artist advance while also supporting music mentorship for children.

The Top 10 vote getters qualify for Round 2. 
From these entries, the Top 5 finalists will enter the Judging Round - a panel of judges will select the grand prize winner.

The winner will be announced and will perform live at the Holiday Hope Concert at Antone's on December 4th, 2026.

Your voice can open doors. Enter the next KING Sings for a Dream songwriter contest for your chance to win studio time, perform live at Antone’s, and provide music mentorship for the next generation of Austin's talent.

From local songwriter to the stage at Antone’s. Take the crown at KING Sings for a Dream—using music to make an impact. Who’s taking the mic next?

These PRIZES are up for grabs!

Contestants will compete for an incredible grand prize package, including:

  • A $2,000 cash prize

  • An 8-hour recording session at King Electric Studios

  • A $250 gift certificate to Strait Music

  • A professional photoshoot

  • Perform at the legendary Antone's Nightclub

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Eligibility

  • Must 18 years of age or older

  • All submitted songs must be original and include both lyrics and music.

  • Contestants must confirm they own 100% of the rights to the lyrics and music.

  • Only 1 submission per artist.

  • Must NOT be an active KING Mentee

  • PFC employees and their families are not eligible to enter.

  • Must be able to perform live and in person on December 4th @ Antone’s in Austin, TX.  Transportation will not be provided.

  • Submissions must be “family friendly” and will be reviewed for appropriate content.

  • Read all the rules here

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Eligibility

  • Entry Period: 10/1/2026 – 10/31/2026

  • Voting Round 1: 11/2/2026 – 11/15/2026

  • Voting Round 2: 11/16/2026 – 11/29/2026

  • Judging Period: 11/30/2026 - 12/1/2026

  • Winner Announcement: 12/4/2026 – Holiday Hope Concert @ Antone’s

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TIPS

  • Prioritize passion over production: You don't need expensive camera gear, studio lighting, or slick video editing.

  • Focus on emotional connection: Sing and play with total honesty. Deliver your song with the energy and heart that make a listener feel something!

  • Showcase your musical composition: 

  • Let your signature style shine: Perform with confidence and deliver your original artist identity. 

Enter the Competition