Road ReadyThe Public's Pick
Three artists came through thousands of entries and a judging panel. Who wins the night is decided October 20 at 3rd and Lindsley. Who the public wants there is decided by you, one vote a day, until PP_VOTE_CLOSE.
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Pick your artist
Click an artist below, then click Vote Now.
02
Confirm by email
We send a code to your inbox. Enter it and the vote lands.
03
Come back tomorrow
One vote per person per day, every day voting is open.
Cast your vote
Percentages show each artist's share of the online vote, which is 40 percent of the final result. On-premise votes at the finale are 40 percent and American Songwriter staff votes are 20 percent.
Hear them first
ARTIST_1_NAME
ARTIST_1_SPOTIFYARTIST_1_BIO
ARTIST_2_NAME
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ARTIST_3_NAME
ARTIST_3_SPOTIFYARTIST_3_BIO
Be in the room
The vote is one part.
The night is the rest.
- Tuesday, October 20, 2026 / Doors 6PM, show 7:30PM
- 3rd and Lindsley / 818 3rd Ave. S, Nashville / All ages
- $15 general admission / $25 pit table, seats four
Questions
Who can vote?
Anyone. One vote per day per unique email address, for as long as voting is open.
Why do I have to enter a code?
The code confirms a real inbox is behind the vote. Votes are subject to review, and any using fake email addresses to deceive or manipulate the count are disqualified. That review is why these numbers mean something.
Are the counts live?
Yes. What you see updates as votes come in, and the published counts are adjusted if votes are removed in review.
Does the public vote decide the winner?
It is 40 percent of it. Online votes here are a deciding factor in choosing the overall winner.
On-premise votes cast at the finale account for another 40 percent, and American Songwriter staff votes account for the remaining 20 percent. The winner is announced live at 3rd and Lindsley on October 20.
Can an artist offer something in exchange for my vote?
No. Contestants may not offer, provide, or promote any prize, compensation, reward, or anything else of value tied to voting. That includes merchandise, services, discounts and experiences. Any attempt to incentivize voting can result in disqualification, vote nullification, or removal from the contest at American Songwriter's sole discretion.
If you have been offered something for a vote, tell us.
When does voting close?
PP_VOTE_CLOSE.
Can I come to the finale?
Yes. 3rd and Lindsley, Nashville, October 20, all ages. Tickets are above.
Full official rules: Public's Pick rules
The Public's Pick
Your Vote Decides the Winner.
Top 3 Finalists
Listen Below | Cast Your Daily Vote | Join the Fun
Fast-rising indie pop-rock singer-songwriter whose emotionally honest songwriting and dynamic sound capture vulnerability, confidence, and edge.
Texas-bred, Nashville-based soul/folk singer-songwriter, cellist, and actor whose thoughtful songwriting, dynamic cello-driven performances, and adventurous life journey invites audiences to connect, feel seen, and breathe together.
Powerhouse collective blending soulful vocals, jam-band-worthy musicianship, and pop-friendly hooks. Hailed as the trailblazers of contemporary blues, this Nashville-based “chosen family” has quickly evolved from a local secret to a national force.
What Is Road Ready?
The Road Ready Talent Contest is designed to discover talented artists and help take them to the next level through real industry opportunities, including exposure, mentorship, live performance, and career development.
This Contest Is For You If:
You perform live and want bigger opportunities
You share your music online (TikTok, YouTube) and are building your audience
You’ve never played a stage but you know you’ve got the talent
You’ve played hundreds of shows and are ready for a bigger break
Join Us For The Grand Finale
See the Top 3 Live | Help Decide the Winner | Win Exclusive Giveaway Prizes
Date: March 31, 2026
Frequently asked questions
If you’re still deciding whether to enter, you’re probably wondering how it all works. Here’s everything you need to know before beginning your entry process.
Have an additional question? Reach out to us directly below.
Voting begins on February 16, 2026. Anyone can vote once per day per unique email address until the voting deadline on March 31, 2026.
The Final Voting Deadline is March 31, 2026.
The Public’s Pick online votes will be a deciding factor (40%) in choosing the overall winner.
On premise votes at the finale event (40%) and American Songwriter Staff (20%) votes will also factor in the final results.
Votes are subject to review and will be disqualified if fake email addresses are used with the intent to deceive or manipulate the voting process.
The Top 3 Finalists will perform at The Basement East in Nashville, TN on March 31, 2026. Doors: 6PM
Yes, tickets are available for purchase online now here.
