Stax Music Academy Student HARZEE Named Tennessee Songwriters Week Memphis Winner

One of seven Tennessee Songwriters Week finalists impressed judges, the audience, and fellow songwriters on stage at Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis recently, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development announced today. Stax Music Academy student HARZEE competed against 17 other songwriters to win the showcase.

Each of the seven finalists throughout Tennessee earns the opportunity to perform at The Bluebird Cafe during a private event in March with music industry professionals, a branded commemorative Taylor guitar, two-night stay in Nashville, $100 gift card for travel, and one-year membership to Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI). Songwriters performed at qualifying rounds in February at more than 50 venues, museums, attractions and cafes to advance to the showcase events.

HARZEE’s charismatic performance of his original song, “Skyfall,” captured the attention of audience and judges alike. The 17-year-old performer—a senior at Overton High School in Memphis—has taken a deep interest in music from the age of 12. Currently working on an album, HARZEE will drop his third single on Feb. 24.

HARZEE also won a free four-hour recording session, sponsored by Made in Memphis Entertainment, owned by the legendary David Porter. Made in Memphis Entertainment studio manager Crystal Carpenter served as a judge, along with Grammy-nominated composer, producer, and musician Scott Bomar, CEO of Connect Music George Monger, and Jaime Scorby with The Bluebird Cafe. Judges considered lyric originality, performance and connection with the audience.

Helmed by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Tennessee Songwriters Week was established in 2019 to support music venues, celebrate songwriters with live performances in all genres of music, drive visitation, and inspire travelers to experience the state’s music stories, history, attractions and venues. Since its inception, more than 3,500 songwriters have shared their original music across Tennessee stages during the annual celebration.

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development partners with The Bluebird Cafe, NSAI, Taylor Guitars, music venues and local convention and visitors’ bureaus, chambers, and partners across the state, all committed to make sure songwriters can share their original work onstage with other writers.

Follow the journey of these songwriters and join the fun by following @tnvacation on social media and #tnsongwritersweek.

Media Contact:

Jill Kilgore

Amanda Murphy

Lisa Valentine

Tim Sampson