The Billboard World Song Contest, sponsored by Billboard Magazine, is proud to present its 15th Annual Contest in Branson, MO in 2008. Contest winners will receive over $30,000 in prizes, including cash, equipment, merchandise and promotional support.

First-place winners in all categories will be invited to perform their winning song onstage in Branson, MO in front of music industry professionals, theatre owners and talent buyers. In addition to the Billboard prizes, a $5,000 Grand Prize winner, Runner-up ($1,500), and second runner-up ($1,000) will be selected from the live performance line-up by a jury of industry insiders.

Among the song categories featured at this Branson, MO event are: Rock/Alternative Rock, Pop, Country, Latin, Folk/Americana, Jazz, Contemporary Christian/Gospel, R&B/Blues, Dance, Rap/HipHop and World. A new category – Electronica/Soundtrack – also seeks entries.

The top three winners in each of the eleven categories – including first-placers performing here in Branson, MO – will have their song featured on a CD that will distributed exclusively to industry decision-makers. This contest offers great exposure for up-and-coming songwriters, as well as a chance to experience Branson, MO.

Once a year, Branson, MO – where you’ll find Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa – packs a little bit of everything it has to offer into five fun-filled days, showcasing world-class performers, local arts and culture, and authentic Branson, MO cuisine.

Known as BransonFest, this celebration welcomes spring with an incredible array of Branson, MO’s finest features and attractions – all in one location! Celebrating its 16th year, BransonFest 2008 is set to take place between April 8th and 12th at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater complex.

Activities begin at Noon on Tuesday, April 8th, and the first “Big Show” is in the American Bandstand Theatre here in Branson, MO at 7:00 pm. At the daily “Big Shows”, you can sample some of Branson’s best shows. If you attend them all, you’ll enjoy at least 50!

Wednesday through Saturday, the outdoor activities begin at 9 a.m. and the “Big Shows” take place at 10:00 a.m. and 2 p.m. Plus, daily activities in the “Real American Entertainment” Tent and the Hospitality, Business and Arts tents are free and open to the public.

BransonFest 2008 is your chance to sample the inspiring experience that Branson, MO offers its more than seven million visitors annually. We can’t wait to see you at Chateau on the Lake for all the excitement in store!