Yes of course there is a demand for song and songwriting contests because people are looking for exposure and an opportunity to have their work judged....all in the course of chasing a dream, secretly or overtly.

Knowing this, there are so many shysters out there who are simply in it for the money and who do nothing for artists.

Not that I am tarring you with this brush, but I'm sending you a clear message. If you want to be an honest, opportunity providing songwriting conest, be open and above board in everything you do.

And stick with it. Four years from now your reputation will have gotten around, one way or the other.

But starting out, you HAVE to set yourself apart from the shyster crowd and be TOTALLY above board.

Count yourself lucky you have an audience here actually trying to help... and I laud you for coming back with a discussion instead of a rant.

Now you don't have to take our advice, and you could bury the details, but....we could be right.

So once more. Lead with your price, support with your value...no half truths, and deliver on all your promises.

If writing ever becomes work I think I'm going to have to stop