Photo by Jen McManus

And the winner of the $4,000 grand prize of the 5th Annual Williamsburg Live Songwriter Competition is Mr. Matthew Dorrien (pictured, middle)! In second place with a cool $750 is Ms. Rosi Golan (pictured, left). And in third place with $250 is Ms. Becca Stevens (pictured, right).

From 700 submissions, 150 were chosen to perform live over 8 nights at alternating venues in Williamsburg to an audience of fans, friends, and industry judges. From these 150, 18 advanced to the Semi-Finals on Friday night. From these 18, 9 advanced to the Finals last night. And from these 9, 3 were awarded with a cash prize.

If you’re turned off by “competition,” “cash prize,” or “first place,” let’s rewind: 700 people submitted a song to Jezebel Music, and 150 of them (149, minus the kid who was kicked out for drunken disorderly conduct on the opening night) came together to showcase their talent and make new friends and fans. It cannot be said enough: there is only one grand prize winner of the WLSC. Although it is an entertaining and appealing aspect of the event, the WLSC is best enjoyed when “prize” and “winning” and “competition” are stricken from our mindset. These things are simply a noble ploy to gather inordinately talented songwriters together under one metaphorically collective roof.

What happens when you get 150 musicians together in one place? Friendships, fans, collaborations, networks, and a damn good time are imminent. As Michael Grubbs – our esteemed host – has humorously reminded us, $4,000 can pay your rent in Williamsburg for only a month. Exaggeration aside, money is temporary, but the contestants who have performed live in the WLSC2008 have directly participated in the making of an absolutely incredible week of music in one of the most diverse, talented music communities in the entire world. If just one person heard their song, one person went to their MySpace the next day, one person asked to join their mailing list, one person said “hey, you sounded great!” – they won. And trust me, there were many winners!

Thank you to all who have submitted, performed, and made possible the 5th Annual Williamsburg Live Songwriter Competition!

We will see you next year!

Go here to see photos from the WLSC2008!

All images copyright Jen McManus 2008

Photo by Jen McManus

Jezebel Music NYC produces 150 shows each year. Some are weekly, some are monthly, and one is so very special that it can only take place once every year: the Annual Williamsburg Live Songwriter Competition. Currently in its fifth year of production, the WLSC2008 accepted 700 song submissions. From these 700 songwriters, 150 performed live over 6 nights in Williamsburg. From these 150, 18 were selected to perform in the Semi-Finals last night, and from these 18, 9 extraordinary singers, songwriters, and performers have been chosen to advance to the Finals, taking place tonight at Public Assembly at 8:00p.

Of all the 150 shows Jezebel Music NYC produces, the Finals of the Williamsburg Live Songwriter Competition is in many ways superlative. Not only is it guaranteed to be an amazing night of talent, but a grand prize of $4,000 is on the line. In case this isn’t enough, three amazing local bands will perform at the Finals after-party immediately following the announcement of the winners: Wakey!Wakey! (fronted by WLSC2008 host Michael Grubbs), Creaky Boards, and Schwervon. For a measly, meager, miniscule $7 (the price of two Pabsts), you can enjoy 9 contestants performing 2 songs each for their chance at $4,000, and hear three incredible bands immediately afterwards! We’ll be taking names of all in attendance at Public Assembly tonight, and those not on the list will be declared legally insane.

Last night, everyone (!) was fantastic. The competition was serious, and the entertainment potent. Performer after performer, the art of song was exemplified. 18 played, 9 advanced to the Finals: Annachristie Sadler, Becca Stevens, Carla Ulbrich, Cedric Lamar, Matthew Dorrien, Olentangy John Atzberger, Richard McGraw, Rosi Golan, and Stacy Rock. Among these performers we have expert musicianship, phenomenal vocals, brilliant lyricism, intense drama, and a shot at a very, very cool grand prize.

If we don’t see you tonight at Public Assembly, we can only assume a rift in the time-space continuum entrapped you in a state of temporal limbo, and as a prisoner bound between alternate planes of reality, your attendance has thus been rendered scientifically implausible. That or you’re allergic to fun.

All images copyright Jen McManus 2008

Tonight, at Public Assembly, the Semi-Finals of the 5th Annual Williamsburg Live Songwriter Competition is going to be the most fun you’ll have until tomorrow night at the Finals. 18 Semi-Finalists, selected by industry professional judges, will come together under one roof (and behind one indoor body of water) to play their song for the delight of the audience – and high scores of the judges – in the hopes that music, melody, vocals, lyrics, originality and performance will catapult them into the Finals, after which one songwriter will be awarded with the grand prize of $4,000!

If you don’t know any of these Semi-Finalists, you will soon!

Alexa Woodward
Becca Stevens
Annachristie Sadler
Carla Ulbrich
Cedric Lamar
Chuck Costa
Elias Orling
Emily Arin
Jesse Lee
Julz A
Matthew Dorrien
Mike Schrieffer
Misty Boyce
Olentangy John Atzberger
Richard McGraw
Rosi Golan
Stacy Rock
Todd Michaelsen

See you tonight!

Public Assembly is located at 70 North 6th Street in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The show begins at 8:00p and is $7.

Photo by Jen McManus

That’s it! At Royal Oak, the last three contestants have been chosen to advance to the Semi-Finals of the WLSC2008, TONIGHT at Public Assembly on North 6th Street. There were contestants from Nashville, Seattle, Canada, and as far as Ireland, all coming together in Williamsburg to share their song, make new musical acquaintances, and of course, win $4,000.

But as always, there can only be three lucky winners (pictured, left to right). Emily Arin is a markedly skilled songwriter, and strong performer. I couldn’t help but be reminded (in a good way) of Jaymay, a highly revered WLSC2005 Finalist. Mike Schrieffer put a ton of heart into his performance, spinning a forlorn alt-country tale of a war widow, and earning himself a slot alongside what promises to be an extraordinary line-up tonight. Todd Michaelsen vivaciously strummed his Parker Fly electric guitar as his projective voice soared and delivered him into the Semi-Finals.

Philip Radiotes performed a solid song with an old-time guitar feel and charismatic voice. Chris Braciszewski shared his unique guitar parts and song arrangement. Scott Gibson’s powerful vocals and epic guitar parts captured the audience’s attention. Although they did not advance to the Semi-Finals, Gabriel Miller-Phillips and Matt Lindauer both brought unique songs to the stage, driven by strong guitar playing, smart lyrics, catchy melodies, and straight up damn-goodness. Charles Ramsey is perhaps the most proficient and tasteful guitarist to perform in the contest thus far. Add to this natural (rather extraordinary) songwriting ability, thoughtful lyrics, and a really great voice, and you have yourself a singer-songwriter to keep an eye on.

At Public Assembly tonight, the 18 Semi-Finalists, gathered over the last six nights, will perform their song for a slot in the Finals, where the remaining 9 contestants will sing for the title, and the cash. Show starts at 8:00p. $7. See you there!

All images copyright Jen McManus 2008

Photo by Jen McManus

That’s it! At Royal Oak, the last three contestants have been chosen to advance to the Semi-Finals of the WLSC2008, TONIGHT at Public Assembly on North 6th Street. There were contestants from Nashville, Seattle, Canada, and as far as Ireland, all coming together in Williamsburg to share their song, make new musical acquaintances, and of course, win $4,000.

But as always, there can only be three lucky winners (pictured, left to right). Emily Arin is a markedly skilled songwriter, and strong performer. I couldn’t help but be reminded (in a good way) of Jaymay, a highly revered WLSC2005 Finalist. Mike Schrieffer put a ton of heart into his performance, spinning a forlorn alt-country tale of a war widow, and earning himself a slot alongside what promises to be an extraordinary line-up tonight. Todd Michaelsen vivaciously strummed his Parker Fly electric guitar as his projective voice soared and delivered him into the Semi-Finals.

Philip Radiotes performed a solid song with an old-time guitar feel and charismatic voice. Chris Braciszewski shared his unique guitar parts and song arrangement. Scott Gibson’s powerful vocals and epic guitar parts captured the audience’s attention. Although they did not advance to the Semi-Finals, Gabriel Miller-Phillips and Matt Lindauer both brought unique songs to the stage, driven by strong guitar playing, smart lyrics, catchy melodies, and straight up damn-goodness. Charles Ramsey is perhaps the most proficient and tasteful guitarist to perform in the contest thus far. Add to this natural (rather extraordinary) songwriting ability, thoughtful lyrics, and a really great voice, and you have yourself a singer-songwriter to keep an eye on.

At Public Assembly tonight, the 18 Semi-Finalists, gathered over the last six nights, will perform their song for a slot in the Finals, where the remaining 9 contestants will sing for the title, and the cash. Show starts at 8:00p. $7. See you there!

All images copyright Jen McManus 2008

Photo by Jen McManus

So much talent. So little time! Tonight at Matchless, three more contestants (pictured, left to right) – Stacy Rock, Rosi Golan, and Misty Boyce – advanced to the Semi-Finals of the WLSC2008, to take place this Friday at Public Assembly.

With so much talent in the showroom at Matchless, it’s not surprise the unheated venue warmed up in no time. Rick Snyder and his electric guitar went “back to Burlington, where the snow makes sense” in a deep-thinking, rocking ballad. Lizzy Grant can sing like a bird can fly – even accidentally turned-on cell phones kept quiet for Lizzy’s sultry song. Tom Curtin played the catchiest song I’ve ever heard about an eye doctor. Michael Romano took us to Tannersville, in a warm, exceptionally finger-picked and projectedly-sung neo-folk song. Seth Woods (hailing from Austin, TX and sleeping on a do-gooder’s couch) relied on only his sturdily-strummed acoustic and strongly-sung words to get the audience on his good side. Lisa Jaeggi’s fresh blend of folk and hip-hop won her many a new fan. If you don’t already know, or missed his song, Jeff Jacobson is one of the finest guitarists, singers, and performers in NYC – now you know! Tam Lin took us on a lyrical trip, accented by solid guitar playing, strong melodies, and top-notch vocal delivery.

For all the right reasons, Paul Basile (pronounced “basil”) was a crowd favorite. His song, “Further North,” is a slow ballad about frustration, exasperation, and wanting to escape from the emotional burdens of life. A very strong and emotive vocalist with a signature voice, Paul performed rather brilliantly, leading many to believe he’d be called up onstage at the end of the evening.

Misty Boyce, an excellent vocalist and pianist, sang one of the more emotional and honest songs of the evening: a warning to stay away from a character who lies and cheats and gets satisfaction from doing whatever it takes to get what she wants. She’s “tro-tro-tro-trouble.” Rosi Golan is a songwriter extraordinaire. If you hate having songs stuck in your head, don’t listen to Rosi, because this songster expertly combines chords and melodies into competition-winning compositions. Stacy Rock’s vocals are solid as… you guessed it… a rock. From behind the keys, Stacy soared and roared her way across her well-composed pop/rock song. She rocked!

Guess what? Only one more night to go in the 2nd Round! After tonight at Royal Oak on Union Ave, all 18 Semi-Finalists will be secured, and ready to perform on Friday night for a slot in the Finals! See you tonight!

All images copyright Jen McManus 2008

Photo by Jen McManus

So much talent. So little time! Tonight at Matchless, three more contestants (pictured, left to right) – Stacy Rock, Rosi Golan, and Misty Boyce – advanced to the Semi-Finals of the WLSC2008, to take place this Friday at Public Assembly.

With so much talent in the showroom at Matchless, it’s not surprise the unheated venue warmed up in no time. Rick Snyder and his electric guitar went “back to Burlington, where the snow makes sense” in a deep-thinking, rocking ballad. Lizzy Grant can sing like a bird can fly – even accidentally turned-on cell phones kept quiet for Lizzy’s sultry song. Tom Curtin played the catchiest song I’ve ever heard about an eye doctor. Michael Romano took us to Tannersville, in a warm, exceptionally finger-picked and projectedly-sung neo-folk song. Seth Woods (hailing from Austin, TX and sleeping on a do-gooder’s couch) relied on only his sturdily-strummed acoustic and strongly-sung words to get the audience on his good side. Lisa Jaeggi’s fresh blend of folk and hip-hop won her many a new fan. If you don’t already know, or missed his song, Jeff Jacobson is one of the finest guitarists, singers, and performers in NYC – now you know! Tam Lin took us on a lyrical trip, accented by solid guitar playing, strong melodies, and top-notch vocal delivery.

For all the right reasons, Paul Basile (pronounced “basil”) was a crowd favorite. His song, “Further North,” is a slow ballad about frustration, exasperation, and wanting to escape from the emotional burdens of life. A very strong and emotive vocalist with a signature voice, Paul performed rather brilliantly, leading many to believe he’d be called up onstage at the end of the evening.

Misty Boyce, an excellent vocalist and pianist, sang one of the more emotional and honest songs of the evening: a warning to stay away from a character who lies and cheats and gets satisfaction from doing whatever it takes to get what she wants. She’s “tro-tro-tro-trouble.” Rosi Golan is a songwriter extraordinaire. If you hate having songs stuck in your head, don’t listen to Rosi, because this songster expertly combines chords and melodies into competition-winning compositions. Stacy Rock’s vocals are solid as… you guessed it… a rock. From behind the keys, Stacy soared and roared her way across her well-composed pop/rock song. She rocked!

Guess what? Only one more night to go in the 2nd Round! After tonight at Royal Oak on Union Ave, all 18 Semi-Finalists will be secured, and ready to perform on Friday night for a slot in the Finals! See you tonight!

All images copyright Jen McManus 2008

Photo by Jen McManus

It’s official. The 2nd Round of the WLSC2008 is halfway over. 12 contestants have been chosen to perform in the Finals at Public Assembly on Friday, another step closer to the grand ole $4,000 first place prize. But no, it’s not easy to get there! Last night at the super cozy Rose Live Music on Grand Street the competition was thicker than ever…

Lara Ewen began the night with a heartfelt, soulful performance. Jessi Robertson showcased her vocal and lyrical prominence in a solidly written song. M Lamar grabbed the attention of the entire audience with operatic vocals, dissonant piano chords, and the lyrics “we drink the pussy like it’s the finest champagne.” Michael Patrick Flanagan Smith put on a great, high energy performance, every ounce from the heart. WLSC2007 Finalist Sean Rowe has a simply incredible, deep voice, seemingly coming from a place altogether elsewhere. Justin D’Onofrio shared with us a solidly composed, slow, fragile song. Morgan Grace (coming all the way from Portland, Oregon) performed a damn catchy pop rock song (“he was gonna be my valentine / he was gonna be mine”) on electric guitar. Jarrod Champion sat behind the keys and hammered home an upbeat swaying ballad driven by standout vocals and a memorable chorus. Kelli Rae Powell brought some of the night’s best lyrics (and performance) with a song about wanting to drive and not look back, staying on the road forever.

If a meteor were to have collided with Rose Live last night, local songwriters everywhere would feel the loss of all the great talent. The esteemed judges had their work cut out for them to select three winners: Cedric Lamar brought serious rock/soul to the stage. His powerful voice, energetic performance, and excellent song (breaking down into a second part towards the end featuring the standout lyrics “there’s a red barn in Harlem”) won him a slot at the Semi-Finals. Julz A is a natural performer: equipped with an accordion, rap verses, and melodic choruses, this unique talent comes one step closer to the Finals. Jesse Lee held the stage in his hands from start to finish, plowing through his uniquely penned song with natural presence and incredibly solid vocals.

Which six remaining performers will move on? Come to Matchless tonight (Wednesday, November 19) to find out half the answer, as three more Semi-Final slots will be filled. And if you happen to be a fan of live performances by the most talented independent songwriters around, consider it a date: Wednesday November 19, Bar Matchless in Greenpoint, 8pm. See you there!

Go here to see photos by Jen McManus from Rose Live!