Calling all Bahamian musicians, writers, music producers and creatives. The 50th Independence Secretariat officially launches its Golden Jubilee Song Competition.

As the Road to 50 continues, the Independence Secretariat is proud to present the National 50th Independence Song Competition. Music has and will continue to be a shared cultural experience that unites our islands and the Bahamian people everywhere. All interested Bahamians around the country and the world are invited to participate and submit a song that represents their excitement, cultural experiences and Bahamian pride.

Competition Eligibility:

• Open to all (born and naturalized) Bahamian citizens and permanent residents 15 years of age and older.
• Participants under 18 require proof of written consent of parent or legal guardian.
• Songs do NOT have to be professionally recorded or performed; however, songs must be audible and reflects performer.
• Songs must be of original content not written and composed prior to April 2023.
• Song lyrics may speak to, or directly include, the 50th Independence theme, “One Nation. Our Legacy. Our Future”. (Not mandatory)
• The genre of the song should be “Goombay” which include subgenres such as “Folk”, “Rake’n’Scrape”, and “Junkanoo”.
• Songs must be bipartisan.
• Songs must be a minimum of 3 minutes and no more than 5 minutes. Songs must contain at least 1 verse and 1 chorus.
• Ballads are accepted.
• Participants are eligible to submit more than one song for consideration, but no more than 4. If an artist chooses to submit more than one song, they must submit a separate submission.
• The submission deadline will NOT be extended under any circumstance.

Important Dates:

• Competition Launch: Wednesday April 12th 2023
• Submission Window: Wednesday April 12th 2023, Friday, May 5th 2023

PRIZES

Top 10

• Songs to be professionally arranged, recorded, mastered, and distributed on music streaming platforms
• Media promotional tour (Radio)

Monetary Prizes 

1st place: $7,500 

2nd Place: $5,000

3rd place: $3,500

Top 3

Branding photoshoot with 5 images for portfolio 

Performance at an upcoming national event 

Weekend Stay at Luxury Hotel

Official 50th Independence Plaque 

Post event promotional tour (Radio)

Official Winner

Inclusion in the 50th Independence Commemorative booklet

Song lyrics and recording included in 50th Independence Time Capsule 

Official 50th Independence Music Video

For more information visit www.celebrate-bahamas.com or email us at bahamasindependence@gmail.com

Flyer Download

• 242 Song Competition
• 242 Song Competition Eligibility
• 242 Song Competition Prizes