Can You Write a Song
in 24 Hours?
This is your shot to find out.
On May 31 at 12 noon, WXPN will drop a surprise prompt. That’s your spark.
You’ll have just 24 hours to write an original song, record a video performance, upload it to YouTube, and submit it to complete your entry.
Push your creativity. Trust your instincts. Make something unforgettable.
Winners take home cash, studio time, and a chance to perform at the XPoNential Music Festival.
Registration closes May 22.
Grand Prize Winner
- $1,000 honorarium
- Ten hours of studio time at MilkBoy Recording Studio
- A spot to perform the winning song live at the XPoNential Music Festival
- A one-year WXPN Program Partner Membership
- $500 gift card to Russo Music
Prizes
Remaining Finalists
- $500 honorarium
- $100 gift card to Russo Music
- A one-year WXPN Basic Membership
Meet the Contest judges
Mike Vasilikos
WXPN Midday and XPN New Music Show host, Mike Vasilikos has dedicated his career to connecting listeners with the heritage music they love and introducing them to new artists, all while supporting up-and-coming local musicians.
John Vettese
WXPN Philly Local host and Editor of XPN.org, John Vettese is Philly’s on-the-ground local music champion, who’s been reporting, recording, and sharing the heart of Philly’s music scene for over 18 years.
Raina Douris
Raina Douris, an award-winning radio personality from Toronto, Ontario, is the host and writer of NPR’s daily nationally-syndicated music interview and discovery program World Cafe.
Kristen Kurtis
WXPN Morning Show Host and Assistant Music Director, Kristen Kurtis is integral in curating the songs and artists heard on WXPN. With over 15+ years in radio, Kristen has a keen ear for the sound that resonates with fellow die-hard music fans.
Sadie Dupuis
Sadie Dupuis is the guitarist, songwriter & singer of rock band Speedy Ortiz. Sadie heads the record label Wax Nine, edits its poetry journal, and has contributed to Spin, Tape Op, Talkhouse, and more. She holds an MFA in poetry from UMass Amherst, where she also taught writing.
Khalil Amaru
Khalil Amaru is a genre-blending artist whose soulful sound fuses alternative R&B with elements of lo-fi and neo-soul. His music has been featured by NPR, WXPN, WFMZ, and Philly Soul Now.
IMPORTANT DATES
The WXPN 24-Hour Song Challenge is open to individual songwriters, groups of songwriters, and bands. You must register in advance to participate. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to showcase your talent and win amazing prizes!