Competition was tough with song submissions from 29 nations, in the Firstfruits Music Awards.
Two Australian songwriters have taken out first and second prizes in the 2024 Firstfruits Music Awards, an international Christian songwriting contest aimed at new and emerging songwriters.
With song submissions from 29 countries and 6 continents, this Christian global song contest aims to support and promote emerging and independent Christian artists ‘whose songs accurately reflect Biblical truths’.
Winner of first prize was Tula Bollendorf from Queensland, whose song Worthy is the King by the Valley Worship Australia team, has gained significant airplay on Christian radio around Australia over recent months, and was voted #8 in Rhema 99.7’s Oz30 Countdown.
Commenting on her win, Tula said, “What a privilege and incredible journey it has been to carry Worthy Is The King from a lounge-room melody into its final production. It has truly been a labour of love with the heart of collaboration honoured throughout the project… It is our passion to continue to create quality God honouring music that worships the Father in spirit and in truth.”
Second prize went to independent singer-songwriter Harry James for his song Mercy. Speaking about the prize, Harry said it was a blessing to receive recognition for his art.
“Several years ago, God stirred in me a desire to write songs for him… Filling our lives and hearts with music, that is grounded in the Word, has amazing effects,” he said. “Thank you to Firstfruits Music Awards for the opportunity to share my music and the message of God’s grace.”
The Firstfruits Music Awards were sponsored by The Guild of International Songwriters and Composers (GISC), with a grand prize of £25,000 to help launch the winner’s career. The Guild is the UK’s top industry body for songwriters, composers and music industry workers.
An international panel of music professionals judged the entries, and Nigel, the awards founder, said he was “absolutely astounded” with the quality, variety and creativity of submissions received.
“To have four artists from Australia whose songs feature among the top 12, is a testament to Christian Australian musicianship,” he said.