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Initiatives For Songwriters

The Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project at Belmont University

Discover the Next Generation of Songwriting Talent

Established in 2024, the Johnny Mercer Foundation (JMF) Songwriters Project at Belmont University is a premier week-long intensive for emerging songwriters and writing teams (ages 18-30) across all musical genres. Held each summer in Nashville, the songwriting capital of the world, this program provides participants with unparalleled instruction from accomplished faculty, as well as creative collaboration with each other. The program culminates in a concert featuring the participants’ new work. Belmont University, located in the heart of Music Row, offers participants a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the songwriting process with guidance from renowned faculty including Victoria Banks, Stephen Bray, and Craig Carnelia.

A Legacy of Excellence Reimagined in Nashville

For 17 successful years, the JMF Songwriters Project thrived at Northwestern University. Its relocation to Belmont University opens new possibilities by combining the program’s rich history with the expertise and creative energy Nashville is known for. Participants benefit from Belmont’s reputation as a hub for nurturing young songwriters, further elevating the quality of work produced through this partnership.

It is difficult to describe the positive, productive atmosphere created at this program, but we can show you instead! Please check out these highlight reels from 2025 and 2024:

Meet the 2025 Songwriters Meet the 2025 Faculty

The 2025 JMF Songwriters Project took place June 22 – 29, 2025.
Check back later for applications to the 2026 program!

How do I apply?

To apply for the Johnny Mercer Foundation Songwriters Project, you’ll complete an online application with a few general questions and provide a link to your YouTube Video Portfolio. Here is what you need to know:

Create Your Video Portfolio

Introduce yourself and explain why you want to join the JMF Songwriters Project. Here are some talking points to include:
- Why are you interested in the program and how will it benefit you?
- What is your songwriting experience? Your musical influences? Your personal goals?
- Why are you a strong candidate and how does this program align with your career aspirations?
Include two original songs in your video. Perform a condensed version if needed (e.g. verse/chorus/bridge/chorus) to keep the total length under 7 minutes.

Upload to YouTube

Upload your video and set it to Unlisted (not Private).
Paste the lyrics for both songs in the description box of your video.

Submit Your Application

Copy your YouTube video link and complete the submission form.
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Start Your Application

When is the deadline for submitting applications?

The deadline for this program cycle is March 1st, 2025.

When are applicants notified of admission decisions?

All applicants will receive notice of admission decisions by April 15th, 2025.

What if I have more questions?

If you have additional questions or need more information, please feel free to contact us at jmfsongwritersproject@belmont.edu.

The Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project will forever be part of our journey and partnership. Our week in the program gave us the space and time to create and push ourselves under the guidance of caring, inquisitive teachers. With the inspiring musical world of Nashville as a backdrop, we explored new styles and collaborations with fellow songwriters from across the country. An unforgettable and transformative experience!
Jimena Caballero & Emma Cordray

The JMF Songwriters Project was one of the best weeks of my life! Thank you, The Johnny Mercer Foundation, for the opportunity to grow as a solo composer-lyricist/songwriter; the incredible mentorship by Stephen Bray, Victoria Banks, and Craig Carnelia; the extraordinary collaborations with such a talented cohort of songwriters of all genres; and the encouragement and newly-acquired confidence to write my own lyrics. What I always had in me is now coming to light.
Ernie Bird