SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR AWARD
NOMINEES 2025
Alan Dreezer
Alan Dreezer returns with “APART,” the fifth single from his forthcoming album Nothing Changes If Nothing Changes — a striking pop-soul ballad shaped by emotional honesty and the signature craftsmanship that has defined his solo career. Written with longtime collaborator Elliot Richardson (Highfield Studio), the track sees Dreezer at his most vulnerable, blending polished production with deeply human storytelling.
A multi-award-winning artist, Alan has spent over two decades evolving from band projects to a celebrated solo career, with accolades including Song of the Year (2024) at the Orpheus Global Independent Music Awards. With “APART,” he continues to affirm his place as one of the UK’s most consistent and compelling pop-soul songwriters.
Lulu Leloup
Lulu Leloup has quickly become one of jazz’s most intriguing new voices — a storyteller who blends vintage glamour with razor-sharp modern humour. Born in Beirut, raised in Montreal, and now writing from Dubai’s dusky jazz corners, she creates songs that feel like rediscovered classics with a mischievous twist. Her debut Hope I Won’t Love You Anyways introduced a songwriter unafraid of vulnerability or wit, while follow-ups like You Called Me Baby, but Baby You Didn’t Call and (If You’re Gonna Break My Heart…) March showcase her talent for turning heartbreak into something playfully human. Clever, intimate, and unmistakably her — Lulu Leloup is redefining nostalgia for a new generation.
Amelie
Teen songwriter Amelie is shaping a career rooted in heart, activism and indie alt-rock power. Her new single “Blessed” — inspired by Oliver, a young fan with cerebral palsy — transforms a poem from her Song4U challenge into a soaring tribute to resilience and love. Amelie is donating half the royalties to help Oliver’s family fund an urgently needed wheelchair, proving how music can directly change lives. Compared to Florence + The Machine, London Grammar, Hozier and Portishead, she’s already gained support from Spotify Fresh Finds, EQUAL Spain, Tom Robinson and Danielle Perry. With 20 original releases and rising global impact, Amelie’s voice carries both purpose and promise.
Hayden Lloyd
Hayden Lloyd, a Birmingham-based musician, has been nominated for Songwriter of the Year. Originally from Bath, UK, Hayden is celebrated for his distinctive blend of blues, rock, funk, and soul, creating a unique and modern sound. His music has been described as unapologetically bluesy, setting him apart as a distinctive artist in recent times. Hayden's authentic and raw sound, combined with his thoughtful lyricism, has earned him recognition as a rising talent in the UK music scene. His nomination for Songwriter of the Year highlights his growing influence and the anticipation surrounding his future contributions to music.
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR AWARD
NOMINEES 2024
Arron Storey
Arron Storey, a nominee for Songwriter of the Year, is a seasoned producer, lyricist, and composer with over 20 years in the music industry. Based between Toulouse and London, Arron’s career has seen him collaborate with a wide range of artists, crafting songs that resonate deeply with audiences. Initially inspired by iconic rock bands like Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and Queen, he honed his skills as a guitarist and songwriter with his band, Storey, playing in renowned venues, including Wembley Stadium and the Jazz Café, and even embarking on a U.S. tour. Known for his versatility, Arron contributes as a co-writer, arranger, and mix engineer, bringing creativity and expertise to every project. His work continues to make an impact across genres, marking him as a pivotal figure in contemporary songwriting.. Having won joint song of the year in 2023 with Cas Du Pfree, is now back with a shot at Songwriter of the Year.
Michelle Lockey
Michelle Lockey, nominee for Songwriter of the Year, is a versatile and accomplished recording artist and songwriter known for her work across Pop, Rock, and Country genres. Based in Maryland, she has earned multiple nominations and awards, including the Hollywood Music in Media Award and the John Lennon Song Contest Grand Prize. Her music, influenced by artists like Ingrid Michaelson and Florence and the Machine, has featured on shows such as The Young and the Restless, The Voice, and Longmire, and in films like Speed Kills. A dedicated mentor and community advocate, Michelle hosts fundraising concerts for Pulmonary Hypertension awareness and teaches music licensing, inspiring the next generation of musicians through her workshops and performances.
Glenn Valles (Songwriter)
Glenn Valles, nominee for Songwriter of the Year, is a celebrated international songwriter whose powerful lyrics offer vivid imagery and emotional depth across genres. His recent work, The Warden, winner of the Clef Music Award 2024, explores the struggles of mental health, framing life's challenges as a "mental prison." Known for his unique ability to make listeners "see with their ears and feel with their souls," Glenn’s music spans genres from Country and Rock to EDM and Blues. His accolades include numerous international songwriting awards and official selections for prominent TV and film projects, further establishing him as a songwriter whose compositions resonate widely with audiences and industry professionals alike.
Janet Devlin
Janet Devlin, the Northern Irish singer-songwriter, has been nominated for Songwriter of the Year. Her recent album, Emotional Rodeo, showcases her evolution, blending her Irish roots with country-rock influences. The lead single, "Emotional Rodeo," reached No. 15 on the UK iTunes Charts and No. 4 on the iTunes Country Charts, highlighting her growing impact in the country music scene.
Devlin's authentic storytelling and emotive vocals continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying her status as a compelling artist in contemporary music.
Hayden Lloyd
Hayden Lloyd, a Birmingham-based musician, has been nominated for Songwriter of the Year. Originally from Bath, UK, Hayden is celebrated for his distinctive blend of blues, rock, funk, and soul, creating a unique and modern sound. His music has been described as unapologetically bluesy, setting him apart as a distinctive artist in recent times. Hayden's authentic and raw sound, combined with his thoughtful lyricism, has earned him recognition as a rising talent in the UK music scene. His nomination for Songwriter of the Year highlights his growing influence and the anticipation surrounding his future contributions to music.
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR AWARD
NOMINEES
2023
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Emmanuel Carlos St.Omer
Endowed with an exceptional talent for genre-spanning artistry, Emmanuel's catalog is as diverse as it is profound, covering Christian, Reggae, and Instrumental music. These compositions aren't mere songs but narratives that address the very complexities and subtleties of the human experience. This richness emanates from his life experiences, notably the tragic loss of his son, which he channeled into art, resulting in emotionally compelling albums like "Stronger Than a Storm" and "Brandon’s Songbook."
His accolades speak volumes about his prowess: finalists in the Commonwealth Song Contest, collaborations with industry stalwarts, and winner of the Great American Song Contest in the Christian music category. His music has received radio airplay across 41 countries, marking him as an international sensation.
The measure of a great songwriter isn't just the music he produces but the lives he touches. And Emmanuel Carlos St. Omer has, through his musical journey, touched hearts, uplifted spirits, and united people across borders and beliefs.
For his unparalleled dedication to his craft, the depth of his emotional narrative, and his international impact, Emmanuel Carlos St. Omer is a compelling candidate for the Songwriter of the Year Award.
Blindness & Light
Colin M. Potter, the mind behind Blindness & Light's writing is a time-traveling conduit, steeped in the raw energy of '80s post-punk but unmistakably stamped with the nuances and realities of 2023.
Colin's work exhibits a rare and sensitive duality. It straddles the rugged landscapes of post-punk while peering into a hopeful utopia. It is a guide from blindness to light, a metaphorical journey guided by the vulnerabilities and compassion embedded in the songwriting.
For Colin, the album embodies resilience, a poetic look at the human condition, and a masterful blend of past and present musical styles. Blindness & Light's album is not just a collection of songs but a significant chapter in an extraordinary journey. His work is a compelling case for why he deserves to be recognized as the Songwriter of the Year.
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Project 1268
Project 1268 has swiftly distinguished themselves in the music world, making them strong contenders for the Songwriter of the Year Award. With two full albums and a single from an upcoming third, their prolific output of over 20 original songs is impressive. Their music has consistently resonated on Amazing Radio, England's largest internet radio station, earning each release rave reviews. Their unique blend of folksy storytelling and retro pop/soul creates a distinctive sound that sets them apart. More than their musical ingenuity, it is their profound aspiration to impart hope and love through their life experiences that truly marks their songwriting as worthy of recognition.
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Fiona Ross
Fiona Ross, with her formidable presence in contemporary jazz, is a deserving candidate for the Songwriter of the Year Award. Recognized in the 100 Alternative Power Music List for 2020, her artistry goes beyond her role as a vocalist and pianist; she's an accomplished composer and producer renowned for a sound that blends rapid Latin Jazz, neo-soul, and evocative ballads. Her influence extends into journalism and advocacy, helming Women in Jazz Media and championing equality and mental health. With a history of celebrated live performances and globally played music, alongside honors such as Best Jazz Song from the World Songwriting Awards, Fiona's career is a beacon of dedication to music's transformative power. Her song 'Mistress' has earned a place in the British Library archives, ensuring her impact will be felt for generations.
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Lara Eidi
Lara Eidi, with 15 years of songwriting experience, has unveiled a transformative album in 'Sun,' a lyrical and musical odyssey that navigates through themes of hope, loss, and empowerment. Born to Lebanese-Canadian parents and now based in Athens, her work represents a cross-cultural fusion where global influences coalesce into genre-defying soundscapes. The album has earned critical acclaim, including praise from award-winning jazz artist and journalist Fiona Ross, testifying to Eidi's remarkable ability to heal and empower through her compositions. In addition to her art, she is a significant figure in the musical community, having founded the songwriting podcast "The Notes Between" and the educational platform Phonica Music Coaching. Her multi-dimensional contribution to music, coupled with her compelling and potent lyrical storytelling, makes Lara Eidi a deserving candidate for the Songwriter of the Year Award this year.
Daniel de Boer
Daniel de Boer's emergence on the music scene with his debut album "Out of Shadows" positions him as a compelling nominee for Songwriter of the Year. The album, consisting of nine original songs penned by de Boer, along with a collaborative piece with Italian composer Simone Bottasso, showcases not just his songwriting versatility but also his ability to create a harmonious narrative from a tapestry of diverse musical influences. The cohesive quality of the album, despite its genre-spanning nature, underscores de Boer's deft craftsmanship and singular artistic vision.
Glenn Valles (Songwriter)
Glenn Valles brings a unique versatility to the world of songwriting, crafting tunes that span a wide array of genres—from Pop and Rock to EDM and Hip-Hop, and even extending to Praise & Worship and CCM. This adaptability has not only led to multiple nominations but also prestigious international songwriting awards in various genres. His music resonates deeply, offering listeners the chance to visualize stories and experience a range of emotions through his poignant melodies and lyrics.
In addition to his genre-spanning talents, Valles covers an expansive range of themes in his work, touching on autobiography, hope, love, self-empowerment, and more. Songs like "Story Of My Life," "Stay Afloat," and "Karma" provide a glimpse into his storytelling prowess. His ability to weave complex narratives and explore intricate emotions makes him a compelling candidate for Songwriter of the Year.
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SAMBOX & Anita Barbereau
Endowed with an exceptional talent for genre-spanning artistry, Emmanuel's catalog is as diverse as it is profound, covering Christian, Reggae, and Instrumental music. These compositions aren't mere songs but narratives that address the very complexities and subtleties of the human experience. This richness emanates from his life experiences, notably the tragic loss of his son, which he channeled into art, resulting in emotionally compelling albums like "Stronger Than a Storm" and "Brandon’s Songbook."
His accolades speak volumes about his prowess: finalists in the Commonwealth Song Contest, collaborations with industry stalwarts, and winner of the Great American Song Contest in the Christian music category. His music has received radio airplay across 41 countries, marking him as an international sensation.
The measure of a great songwriter isn't just the music he produces but the lives he touches. And Emmanuel Carlos St. Omer has, through his musical journey, touched hearts, uplifted spirits, and united people across borders and beliefs.
For his unparalleled dedication to his craft, the depth of his emotional narrative, and his international impact, Emmanuel Carlos St. Omer is a compelling candidate for the Songwriter of the Year Award.
