Alex H. Krinsky on August 24, 2023
The Bob Dylan Center and Universal Music Publishing Group have introduced the very first Bob Dylan Center Songwriter Fellowship. The prestigious accolade is set to honor two distinct songwriters every year, providing them with a $40,000 project stipend, exclusive presentation platforms, access to the invaluable Bob Dylan Archive, and the opportunity for recording sessions at the historic Church Studio in Tulsa, Okla., previously owned by Leon Russell.
The selection process for the fellowship will involve discerning judgment from both BDC and UMPG executives alongside a prominent global panel of esteemed artists, including Nas, John Mellencamp, Patty Griffin, Carla Morrison, and Juliette Armanet. Aspiring songwriters can submit their entries until the deadline on Oct. 18. Eligibility criteria require applicants to be at least 18 years of age without a current publishing deal. The fellowship is set to commence on May 1, 2024. Detailed information on the application procedure can be found on the official website.
According to a statement by Bob Dylan Center Director Steven Jenkins, “The Bob Dylan Center Songwriter Fellowship is intrinsic to our mission of nurturing, motivating, and igniting the creative spirit in our visitors. We are eagerly anticipating the submissions from untapped talents across the globe.” He further expressed gratitude for the continued partnership with UMPG, a premier music publisher that has been a steadfast supporter of the Bob Dylan Center. He also expressed confidence in the exceptional panel of songwriters, who will play a pivotal role in selecting the well-deserving Fellows for this inaugural year.
Learn more about the Bob Dylan Center Songwriter Fellowship here.