The John Lennon Songwriting Contest is open to amateur and professional songwriters who submit entries in any one of 12 categories: Rock, Country, Jazz, Pop, World, Rhythm & Blues, Hip Hop, Gospel/Inspirational, Latin, Electronic, Folk, and Children’s. Instrumental compositions are encouraged. The JLSC is open year-round and features two sessions – with 72 Finalists, 24 Grand Prize Winners, 12 Lennon Award Winners, and 1 Maxell Song of the Year. Submission deadline: August 15.