In the crowded landscape of contemporary music, it's rare to encounter a song that manages to capture raw emotion in a deeply authentic way. "Kelly," written by Cas du Pree and Arron Storey, does precisely that. A heartfelt ode to the profound experience of losing a sister, the song delves into the complexities of grief and the lingering thoughts of what might have been.

Eschewing conventional song structure, "Kelly" features three verses and deliberately forgoes a traditional chorus. This choice allows the song to maintain its intimate tone while unfolding in a way that feels both natural and poignant. As the song progresses, layers of instrumentation are subtly introduced, each new element complementing and deepening the emotional narrative without detracting from the song's intimate core.

The result is a composition that stands out not just for its emotional gravity, but for its artistic bravery. Cas du Pree and Arron Storey have crafted a song that is both deeply personal and universally resonant, a rare achievement that underscores their exceptional skills as songwriters.

For its genuine emotional depth, its innovative structure, and the sheer craftsmanship it took to balance those two aspects so masterfully, "Kelly" deserves consideration for the Song Of The Year

SAMBOX & Anita Barbereau defy convention with their purely instrumental creation, "Hanami." This unique offering proves that words are not a prerequisite for evocative storytelling or emotional resonance.

"Hanami," a term traditionally associated with the Japanese custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers, captures a sense of fleeting moments and ephemeral beauty. The song skillfully weaves an auditory tapestry that allows listeners to engage in a deeply emotional and almost meditative experience. Each chord, progression, and beat is deliberately placed, resonating with an authenticity that transcends language barriers.

SAMBOX & Anita Barbereau’s commitment to their craft is evidenced by the meticulous arrangement and emotional richness of the composition. Their ability to connect with listeners through pure instrumentation showcases not just their exceptional talent but a pioneering spirit that pushes the boundaries of conventional music-making.

For its originality, emotional depth, and innovative approach to storytelling in music, "Hanami" stands as a compelling contender for the Song of the Year Award.

Alan Dreezer, an Eastbourne-based Electro-Pop/Singer-Songwriter, brings a seasoned perspective to the music scene. With a history that includes touring with '80s pop act "Brother Beyond" as part of the duo "Tara 2," and captivating audiences with rock-pop band "ADProject," Alan has established a wide-ranging musical portfolio. His solo career took off with the 2018 debut album "LONDON E12," and he has continued to make his mark on stages across London and Essex.

His latest song, "Take Me Back," is a strong contender for Song of the Year, captivating audiences with its universal nostalgia and timely message about technology's impact on society—especially young people. The song is not only high in lyrical quality but also excels in production, promising an equally well-crafted music video. With "Take Me Back," Alan Dreezer issues a compelling wake-up call while offering a masterclass in songwriting and production.

Moon and Aries, composed of Jordana Moon and Tom Aries, join forces with saxophonist Jokomagic, to offer more than just music—they offer a soundscape for life's journey. With their latest song, "Traffic," they have created a compelling candidate for the Song of the Year Award. The song serves as an anthem for navigating life's complexities, encouraging listeners to take control and find inner peace amid the external chaos. Infused with 80s/90s retro R&B, soul, funk, and smooth jazz influences, yet completely contemporary, "Traffic" isn't just a song; it's a mantra for living, pushing us to reflect, act, and ultimately, feel better. With its universal message and genre-blending sound, "Traffic" successfully drives home the idea that we are all in this journey together, inviting us to embrace the traffic of life as a collective experience.

Glenn Valles, known for his ability to craft songs across a wide array of genres, has touched upon an urgent issue with "The Warden," making it a compelling contender for the Song of the Year Award. The song serves as a metaphorical exploration of mental health, describing the internal "wardens" that confine many individuals to their own mental prisons. By tackling such a pressing yet often under-discussed topic, Valles goes beyond mere songwriting to ignite a conversation around mental health awareness, a concern increasingly crucial in today's complicated societal landscape. With its profound lyrical content and emotive delivery, "The Warden" transcends entertainment to become an impactful message, elevating its significance well beyond that of a typical song.

"A Lifetime or a Hundred Years" by Emmanuel Carlos St. Omer is a poignant entry for the Song of the Year Award, capturing the essence of enduring love across the decades. Crafted to honor his 30th wedding anniversary, Emmanuel condenses thirty years of partnership into a few heartfelt minutes. The song traverses the joy of meeting and committing to a shared life's journey, the challenges of parenthood and the profound grief of losing a child, encapsulating the complexities of shared life experiences. The third verse culminates in the testament to the couple's resilience, anchored by faith and love. Its universal appeal lies in its raw honesty and its ability to mirror the highs and lows that every relationship endures. With its cross-genre potential, "A Lifetime or a Hundred Years" stands out as a song that not only tells Emmanuel's personal story but also resonates with the collective heart of listeners everywhere.

Daniel de Boer's "Fly Away" stands as a powerful contender for Song of the Year, redefining the narrative of breakups in contemporary music. Rather than dwelling on loss, "Fly Away" celebrates newfound freedom and the journey towards self-discovery. Its uplifting message encourages listeners to embrace change and personal growth, resonating deeply with those navigating life transitions.

Musically, "Fly Away" skillfully blends accessible pop with influences from various world music genres, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh. The song's arrangement highlights Daniel's versatility as a songwriter and musician, capable of crafting a track that appeals to a broad audience while retaining artistic depth.

With "Fly Away," Daniel de Boer has not only delivered a hit but also a meaningful anthem of empowerment and hope, making it a strong candidate for Song of the Year.

Emmanuel Carlos St. Omer's touching composition, "The Girl with the Stars in her Eyes," presents a strong case for the Song of the Year Award. This tender ode to his daughter Jasmyn encapsulates the resilience and spirit of a young woman before and after a profound family tragedy. The song is a paternal tribute and a reminder of the innate strength she possesses, which can rise anew. Its broader message of empowerment resonates deeply, offering a narrative that women and girls can identify with and find inspiration in. The song's capacity to comfort, empower, and reignite lost sparkles makes it not just a personal lullaby, but an anthem for anyone seeking to reclaim their vibrancy in the face of life's adversities.