Attention all aspiring musicians and artists! Are you ready to use your voice and talent to make a difference? The power of music is about to be unleashed in a battle against drug-impaired driving!
New Jersey's high school students are invited to participate in the 22nd Annual 'Your Song! Your Voice!' competition, with a twist! This year, the focus is on creating an impact through music, specifically addressing the dangers of driving under the influence. It's time to shout down drugs and showcase your musical prowess!
Organized by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ), this competition is an incredible opportunity for young artists to make their mark. With a $5,000 music contract up for grabs, the winner will not only have their song heard across the state but also become an ambassador for a crucial cause.
But here's where it gets controversial... or rather, impactful! The competition has teamed up with the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety (HTS) to raise awareness about impaired driving. Representatives from HTS will be part of the judging panel, ensuring that the messages conveyed are powerful and effective.
"Music knows no boundaries when it comes to genre or style. The 'Shout Down Drugs' competition is a platform for New Jersey students to inspire and influence their peers positively," says Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ. "By partnering with New Jersey Highway Traffic Safety, we aim to empower students to use their creativity as a force for good, preventing impaired driving and saving lives in the process."
Michael J. Rizol, Jr., Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, adds, "Music has an incredible ability to connect with youth. By channeling their creativity into songs promoting safe choices, students can make a real difference in preventing impaired driving. We're excited to hear their messages and support their efforts to keep our roads safe."
The finalists' songs will be performed in a virtual concert hosted by Jimmy Steal, Creative Services Director and PM Drive Host for WRAT 95.9. An esteemed panel of judges will select the winner, and the announcement will be made at the concert's grand finale.
The winning artist will then embark on a year-long journey, performing their song at schools, community events, and prevention programs. They will have the chance to inspire and educate their peers, spreading the message of prevention and healthy decision-making. Last year's winner, Martin Rojas Ortiz, showcased his talent with the song 'Bruno' at Red Ribbon Day in Cranford, leaving a lasting impact.
Since its launch in 2005, 'Your Song! Your Voice!' has inspired nearly 1,000 students from all 21 counties to create original music with powerful prevention messages. Finalists' songs are featured on ShoutDownDrugs.com, where the public can listen, vote, and support their favorites. With over 1.5 million votes cast since online voting began in 2010, this competition has become a platform for young talent to shine and make a difference.
And this is the part most people miss... the impact of this competition goes beyond the stage! Many past participants have gone on to pursue careers in music and media, with some even appearing on national platforms like 'The Voice.' It's a testament to the power of this initiative and the potential it holds for young artists.
The New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, New Jersey Broadcasters Association (NJBA), and 95.9 WRAT proudly sponsor this competition. For rules and more information on how to enter, visit www.shoutdowndrugs.com.
Remember, your voice matters, and your song can make a difference. Are you ready to take the stage and inspire change? The competition is open until February 1, 2026, so start crafting your impactful message today!
What do you think? Is music an effective tool for raising awareness about important issues? Share your thoughts and let's spark a conversation in the comments!
