Industry heavyweights to judge Songs of War songwriting competition in aid of War Child

Hosted in partnership between music agency Soundcheque, BASCA (British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors), music industry opportunities platform SYNCR and the charity, artists are invited to pen an original anti-war song to raise awareness of the plight of children living in conflict.

The competition coincides with the release of A Private War, a Hollywood biopic based on the true events of war photographer Paul Conroy (portrayed by 50 Shades’ Jamie Dornan) and celebrated war correspondent Marie Colvin (Rosamund Pike of Gone Girl). It has been a personal endeavour for Soundcheque’s founder Laura Westcott, who has worked tirelessly to make the project a reality.

“I heard Paul Conroy’s tragic yet inspirational story the day he arrived in hospital after escaping from Homs,” shares Westcott. "His heart was broken for Marie and all the other innocent people he saw suffering and being slaughtered in Syria.”

Besides being an incredible photojournalist, Conroy is also a songwriter and musician who wrote the war-themed song "Take Good Care" for Joss Stone and Dave Stewart. “I had the privilege of hearing Joss and Paul perform [the] song,” Westcott continues. “It became my inspiration for the competition.”

The competition will be judged by a panel of industry professionals and talent including Brian Johnson of AC/DC. Songs submitted to Songs of War should carry messages of conflict, peace or hope. It is free to enter the competition by registering with SYNCR, with donations to the charity being strongly encouraged when applying. Entrants must be UK based and aged 16 and over.