Idol songwriting competition back on track

Do you write the songs that make the whole world sing? Do you write the songs of love and special things? Do you write the songs that make the young girls cry? If so, you could be the next person to have your dreams come true courtesy of American Idol.

Producer Simon Fuller announced the launch of American Idol's much anticipated songwriting competition, that was first on, then probably off, but now definitely back on. The contest gives one lucky songwriter the chance to write the single that will be heard by millions on Idol's grand finale show.

Fuller said, "Having an undiscovered songwriter create the winner's single seemed like a natural next step for our show . . . This show has always been, and will continue to be, all about fulfilling dreams."

The initial Top 20 songs will be selected by producer Simon Fuller, and his 19 Entertainment A&R staff. Those songs will then be posted online so that the public can listen to them and vote for their favorite. The winning songwriter will receive a music publishing deal with 19 Entertainment, and a cash advance on royalties.

Key dates are as follows:

• April 4 -- Submission phase begins
• April 17 -- Submission phase ends
• May 2 -- Online voting begins
• May 8 -- Online voting ends
• May 22 -- Songwriting winner announced on American Idol's finale

For more information, click here.