2026 Modern Sound Worship Song Contest Winner

Mary Lou Lackey

Congratulations to Mary Lou Lackey, winner of the 2026 Modern Sound Worship Song Contest with her original song, “Love You the Most”! Over the coming months, Mary Lou’s song will be brought to life through a professional recording session in Nashville, and we can’t wait to help her share it with the world.

LISTEN TO HER SUBMISSION

2026 Fan Vote Winner

Miranda Newcomer

This year’s Fan Vote winner is: Miranda Newcomer — “I’ll Remain”

LISTEN TO HER SUBMISSION

Your Song, Your Story, Your Moment

The Modern Sound Worship Song Contest is designed to discover and champion new voices in worship music. Presented by Modern Sound and sponsored by Cantinas Arts Foundation, this contest is open to independent and emerging songwriters who want to share their original worship songs with the world.

How It Works

Step 1: Submit Your Song

Upload your entry before the deadline (June 30, 2025).

Step 2: Fan Favorite Round

Songs go live for public voting. Rally your friends, fans, and community to support your song.

Step 3: Finalists Judged

Top submissions are reviewed by a panel of music industry professionals.

Step 4: Winner Announced

One winner will receive a professionally produced single, music video, and photoshoot.

Prize Packages

Grand Prize Package

The Grand Prize Winner will receive a comprehensive single release experience, including:

  • $1,000 Cash Prize
  • Professional Song Production (arrangement, tracking, mixing, and mastering)
  • Simple Music Video filmed in Nashville at the Museum of Christian & Gospel Music
  • Recognition across Modern Sound & Cantinas channels
  • Travel Costs Covered: Flight, hotel, and per diem

Fan Favorite Package

The Fan Favorite Winner will receive:

  • $100 Amazon Gift Card
  • Two General Admission Tickets to the 2026 Dove Awards
  • Two Tickets to the Museum of Christian & Gospel Music
  • Recognition across Modern Sound & Cantinas channels
Important Notes
  • No cash alternatives (aside from the Grand Prize’s $1,000) will be offered.
  • All prizes are non-transferable.
  • Final production and release details will be coordinated between the winner and Modern Sound.
Key Dates
  • Entries Open: Now
  • Entries Close: June 30, 2026 at 11:59pm CT
  • Fan Favorite Voting: Closes July 5, 2026 at 11:59
  • Final Judging + Winner Announcement: August 2026
Entry Guidelines
  • Only one song submission per entrant.
  • Songs must be original works (no covers or public domain).
  • Entries must include both audio (MP3/WAV or link) and lyrics.
  • Co-written songs are allowed, but only one entrant may submit.
  • No explicit, offensive, or inappropriate content.
  • By entering, you grant Modern Sound the right to stream/share your submission for voting and promotional purposes.
  • Entrants must agree to full contest Terms & Conditions.
  • Click here for full list of entry and eligibility guidelines

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Contest Terms & Conditions

Participation requires agreement to all contest rules, eligibility requirements, and licensing terms. Click here to read full details.

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Frequently asked questions

Who can enter?

  • The contest is open to independent and emerging Christian/worship songwriters.

Does it cost anything to enter?

  • No. Entry is free thanks to the sponsorship of Cantinas Arts Foundation.

Can I submit more than one song?

  • No. Only one entry per person.

What file formats are accepted?

  • MP3, WAV, or a YouTube/Dropbox/SoundCloud link.

What if my song is co-written?

  • Co-writes are allowed, but only one entrant may submit on behalf of the group.

Will my song be shared publicly?

  • Yes. Select submissions will be featured during the Fan Favorite voting round.

When will the winner be announced?

  • Top 5 Finalists and Fan Favorite Winner: July 6, 2026
  • Grand Prize Winner: July 15, 2026

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