Harper O’Neill Takes First Place Prize in American Songwriter’s 2022 Song Contest with “Somebody”

Harper O’Neill Takes First Place Prize in American Songwriter’s 2022 Song Contest with “Somebody”

Nashville, Tenn. — Southern singer-songwriter Harper O’Neill is solidifying her name in Nashville with new music, more shows and some extra cash as she is named the 1st place winner of American Songwriter’s 2022 Song Contest for her song, “Somebody.”

Judged by the likes of Rob Thomas and Kara Dioguardi, the annual contest aims to discover new talent and groundbreaking songwriting from writers all over the world. Along with an American Songwriter feature and lifetime subscription, Harper was presented a $10,000 check, high-quality studio equipment from PreSonus, a Gibson guitar, a year of distribution via Play MPE and valuable career consultation with Atlantic Records A&R. The winning song, “Somebody,” which Harper co-wrote with Meg McRee, was released at the top of this year as part of a 3-track EP of the same name.

“This song is a daydream,” Harper shared to social media. “It’s the moment a stranger catches your eye and your imagination runs away with hope that they are your perfect match … and more importantly that they aren’t already in love with someone else.”

Produced by Jake Gear (Hailey Whitters, Flatland Cavalry, Ben Chapman), Harper plans to build on the releases with a forthcoming debut album in the works. This spring, fans will have a chance to hear the tunes and a few new ones as she joins Lainey Wilson, Ashley McBryde and Morgan Wade on respective tours traveling throughout the nation. Fans can grab their tickets here.

Originally from Texas, Harper moved to Nashville after college graduation, finding a welcoming songwriting community thanks to her knack for intrapersonal lyrics and clever melodies. Her talent quickly earned her the publishing deal of her dreams with Jody Williams Songs, a co-venture with Warner Chappell Music. Joining an incredible roster of artists, writers, and producers including Vince Gill, Natalie Hemby, Ashley McBryde, Nathan Chapman, Driver Williams, Trent Dabbs and more, Harper has created an extensive catalog of songs and relationships that place her at the forefront of the bustling songwriter scene. With new music on the horizon and a stacked touring scheduling, Harper shows no signs of slowing down.

​Stream “Somebody” HERE

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