Now in its fifth year, the Jimmy LaFave Songwriting Contest is open to unsigned and emerging Oklahoma songwriters.

Out of more than 70 entries in 2022, three contest finalists were selected based on lyrics, melody, originality, form and musicality by a panel of judges, including renowned songwriters and industry professionals Chris Buhalis, Ellis Paul, Troy Campbell, Deana McCloud, Brad Piccolo and Roger Ray.

The contest is free to enter with a grand prize of $500, a spot in the lineup at Bob Childers Gypsy Café and a weeklong stay to retreat and write at Blue Doors at Tenkiller.

The People's Choice Award, decided by online voting, wins $100. All three finalists are invited to perform at Mayfest.

The Jimmy LaFave Songwriting Contest highlights the spirit of mentorship and musical discovery that have become hallmarks of the Gypsy Café festival. Previous winners of the contest include Ken Pomeroy (2018), Dallas Parker aka Faux Draco (2019) and Joe Baxter (2020) and Ahna Jennings (2021).