Every year, thousands of Canadian artists enter Searchlight, hoping to capture the title of Canada's best new artist, winning the prize of $20,000 in new music equipment, plenty of CBC airplay, a slot at the CBC Music Festival and more.
Here are my five tips for entering Searchlight to help you rise above the pack.
1. Choose the right song.
While Searchlight is open to all musical genres, it's important to remember that our team of producers is listening to every song, singling out the best for airplay and features on Radio 1, 2 and 3. What are we listening for? The mid- to uptempo tunes, four minutes or under, tend to catch our ear, no matter what the genre (but hey, if you've written the greatest slow, epic song since "Stairway to Heaven," submit it). Try to avoid the song with the overly long lead-in. Catchy choruses and hooks are an age-old bonus but not a must. Don't label your song as a "demo." Best foot forward, always.
2. Avoid foul language.
What's the point of entering your song with cursing in a contest for the CBC? You know we can't play swear words on the radio, we sure as hell heck aren't going to take the time to bleep out your swearing, no matter how brilliant your song. Sing it loud and proud — just without the F-word, please.
3. Your photo really matters.
That old cliché of that a photo says a thousand words is so true when it comes to Searchlight. Choose a great, close-up photo — colour preferred — of you or your band. Remember, these photos will often be shrunk down for use on our blog or mobile site. We need to see you! Head/torso shots are best, body shots are fine. Let the photo tell the story of what kind of artist you are. Wear a rhinestone suit onstage? Let's see it in the photo. Avoid text or script of any kind on your photo, and please avoid album covers or artwork. Let's see you!
4. Your story is important.
The CBC is attracted to amazing stories. It's what we feed on. At CBC Music, we search for great artists with great songs, and we always want to know your story. Where are you really from? How did you get from there to here? What was the catalyst for you to begin your music career? What is your claim to fame? Trained as an opera singer but now perform hip-hop? Include it! Be vulnerable. Show your scars. Lay down your arms. Tell your story. Why? Great stories are always retold.
5. Engage.
The joy of musical discovery and building community is at the heart of Searchlight. Let your friends, family and fans know you've entered through your social channels. Engage with other artists in your region to form bonds and community that could last well beyond Searchlight. Have fun, share your music and grow as an artist into the Canadian music community. That's what it's all about.
Good luck! Deadline to enter is Sunday, March 29.
Here are more tips to help you win Searchlight 2015 from our senior producer, Mike Miner.
Have any questions about Searchlight? Any early favourites emerging? Any tips we missed that you want to share? Comment in our blog or tweet us @CBCRadio3 #Searchlight.
Listen to hosts Grant Lawrence, Lana Gay and Louise Burns discuss Searchlight and emerging Canadian music today on CBC Radio 3.