The Bus opens songwriting contest to Merced musicians

The Bus, Merced’s regional transit system, is looking for a tune, and is asking for the help of local songwriters and musicians.

The Bus officials announced the start of a songwriting contest earlier this week, in which musicians will have the opportunity to win $500 plus a professional recording session by submitting their original song inspired by The Bus.

The winning songwriter will have his or her song produced at a professional recording studio by an award-winning producer, according to a news release.

“We’re always looking for ways to interact with the community in a positive way,” said Transit Manager Rich Green in the release. “We have a lot of talented people here in Merced County. This contest gives us a fun way to highlight that talent and get residents talking about The Bus.”

All genres of music are accepted. The deadline for entries is Nov. 16. Songwriters ages 13 and up are eligible to enter. Children ages 13 through 17 must have a parent’s written consent to participate. The winning song will be selected by Dec. 1.

Songs will be judged based on originality, lyrical and musical content, and overall appeal, according to officials. Music and lyrics must be the contestant’s original work.

Musicians can enter the contest online by uploading an MP3 of their song along with a copy of the lyrics at www.writeasongforthebus.com, or by mailing or hand-delivering a CD or DVD and a copy of the lyrics to: Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County, 369 W. 18th St., Merced, CA 95340.

Entries will be evaluated by a panel of judges, including an award-winning producer, creative director for a top advertising agency and a representative from the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County.

This story was originally published October 9, 2015 at 4:44 PM with the headline "The Bus opens songwriting contest to Merced musicians."