The Mental Health Week Songwriting Competition was drawn at Higher Ground on Saturday the 10th of October by Singer Songwriter Chris Finnen.

The competitions four finalists were Jayne West with her song “Mulberry Lane”, Dylan Morgan with his song “An Angels Voice”, Kaylah West and Melissa Thomas with their song “ It’s Not the End”, and Band Gifted but Twisted with “Malestrom’s Relief”.

Judged by Elizabeth Reid from Music SA, Michelle Smith from Yacsa and Singer Songwriter
Chris Finnen, industry package prizes were awarded in the 18 to 25 year old category.

First place went to Jayne West, whose package included professional feedback from singer-songwriter Chris Finnen, a photographic session with Lauren Smeaton, gigs during Mental Health Week, a $500 graphic design package, and recording of her winning song at Northern Sound System.

Gifted but Twisted took out second place, also receiving feedback from Chris Finnen and a $500 graphic design package, as well as a $50 voucher from Big Star Records/Allans Music.

Winner Jayne performed at various events during Mental Health week including the Music Quiz at the Wheatsheaf Hotel, Margaret Tobin Awards at the Festival Theatre Terrace, Words Poetry Evening at the SA Writers Centre and the See Me art exhibition openings.

Jayne has since performed at Club Cool at the Gov and is currently recording a few of her songs at the Northern Sound System with the assistance of the Weekend Warriors. She will be appearing at Higher Ground on December the 6th along with the SA finalist entrants from Australian Idol in 2009 at 6pm, tickets are $20 at the door.

Chris Finnen has also organized to play a gig with Gifted by Twisted and is providing Dylan Morgan with some free Guitar Lessons.

Feedback from Chris for the entrants included comments on musicality, composition, text, storyline and musicianship.