Ghanaian-American artist Sam Opoku has been awarded the Grand Prize for the 2025 International Songwriting Competition (ISC) for his song, “Old.” The track explores the complexities of aging and rediscovering childhood wonder. For his win, Opoku receives a $25,000 cash prize along with a suite of industry mentorships and equipment.
Born in Ghana and raised in the United States, Opoku’s journey from a Poetry Out Loud champion to collaborating with legends like Timbaland and Darkchild has culminated in this top honor. “I’m so thankful that moments like this happen to keep me inspired,” Opoku said in a statement. “All I want to do is write good music that touches people.”
Now in its third decade, the ISC remains the world’s premier platform for songwriting excellence. The 2025 circuit drew more than 13,000 entries from 120 countries, judged by an elite panel including Jason Mraz, Tom Waits, Nancy Wilson and Elle King.
“The 2025 winners have raised the bar yet again,” said Candace Avery, ISC founder and director. “We are honored to champion their work.”
Opoku joins an illustrious roster of past winners such as Vance Joy, Tones and I, Kehlani, Bastille, Coco Jones, Gotye, Andrew Bird, etc., solidifying his place as a rising force in global music.
2025 ISC Highlights
Total Entries: 13,000+
Global Reach: 120+ Countries
Categories: 23 genre-specific winners (1st, 2nd, and 3rd place)
Grand Prize Package: $25,000 (USD) plus professional services and gear
For a complete list of winners and to listen to the winning songs, visit the ISC website at songwritingcompetition.com/winners.
Entries are now open for ISC 2026. For more information and to enter, go to songwritingcompetition.com.
(Pauseandplay.com is a media partner of the ISC.)