Marley family matriarch Dr Rita Marley has launched a songwriting competition for high school children through her eponymous Foundation.
Students are encouraged to pen tunes on the theme,
Strong Black Women and Their Role in History.
According to Marley, “song writing should be part of the school curriculum.”
In imploring both new and seasoned musicians to direct their talents at creating quality material and not focus on attainment of quick fame, Rita Marley said, “Any artist serious about their craft should naturally want to explore songwriting. It’s not about a GRAMMY or being on the charts. The goal should be to develop your talent and skill to a level that lets you reach and connect with an audience. Once you reach people the accolades will come. The success will come. But the goal is to be your best.”
Rosemary Duncan, Manager of the Rita Marley Foundation, articulated that submissions will be judged on song structure and composition, lyrics, originality and content.
Entries will be assessed by an astute panel, comprising Michael Harris, Head of Department for Performance, Edna Manley College; Dr Keino Senior, Dean at School of Arts Management and Humanities, Edna Manley College; Vernon Derby, Media Personality/Educator; Beverley Lashley, CEO National Library of Jamaica and Dr Rita Marley herself.
Songs should be submitted no later than June 1, in the written form (English or Patois), to email address:
[email protected] Results will be revealed on July 1, 2019. With first, second and third place winners awarded $50,000, $25,000 and $15,000 respectively. Along with other spectacular prizes.
