For months, the Portland Songwriters Association has been hosting weekly competitions for songwriters on Mississippi Street. Each week, 10 performers would submit their lyrics and play two songs of their choice- each were judged by a panel of mentors from the industry. Ultimately, the group was whittled down week-by-week until the final 10 songwriters met on Wednesday February 7th 2007 for the final competition and the title of the Portland Songwriters Association Songwriter of the Year.
As the last performer of the night, my nerves were racing as the other talent continually impressed me- one after another. I grew doubtful by the time it was my turn to play. I played Babysitting the Cowboy and Better Be Us All as my songs of choice. The performance was calming and intimate and my nerves finally settled for a bit as the judges made their decision… I’m honored to announce Tyler Stenson PSA Songwriter of the Year.