A new cultural initiative is inviting musicians around the world to help create what organizers hope could become Miami’s first widely recognized anthem.
Elevate Miami and Guitars Over Guns have launched “Elevated Tracks 305,” a global songwriting competition in collaboration with the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. The contest asks creators with a meaningful connection to Miami to compose an original song that captures the city’s culture, energy and global musical influence.
Despite Miami’s role as a hub for genres ranging from Latin pop and hip-hop to jazz and electronic music, the city has never formally adopted an official anthem.
Submissions for the contest opened March 4 and will close March 30.
The initiative has drawn support from several music industry figures with Miami ties, including Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Rico Love, singer-songwriter Jon Secada, songwriter and producer Rudy Pérez and Latin Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Danny Flores.
A panel of judges will include Julio Bagué, Chad Bernstein and faculty members from the Frost School of Music.
The competition is open to all musical styles, including Latin, pop, hip-hop, R&B, jazz and fusion. Organizers plan to select six winners — three adults and three youth. First-place winners in each category will receive $10,000, second place $2,500 and third place $1,000.
Winners will also receive promotion through live performances, media coverage and digital platforms in 2026.
“The Frost School of Music has had a profound impact on the arts, music, and cultural scene in Miami since the school opened its doors nearly 100 years ago,” said Shelton G. ‘Shelly’ Berg in a press statement. “Our esteemed faculty and renowned alumni are proud to lend their expertise to select songs by a new generation of Miamians.”
Bernstein said the project highlights both emerging and established voices in the city’s music scene.
“Guitars Over Guns has helped young artists find their voice and tell their stories for nearly 20 years,” Bernstein said in a press statement. “This initiative honors those voices alongside established creators and industry leaders.”
Joe Deitch, founder of the Elevate Prize Foundation and Elevate Cities, said the project is designed to build civic pride through music.
“Elevated Tracks 305 is more than a contest,” added Deitch in a press release. “It is an invitation for creators to help define how this city presents itself to the world for the next generation.”
Final winners will be selected through a combination of jury scoring and public voting, each accounting for 50% of the decision. Organizers say the winning songs could help shape a lasting cultural symbol for Miami.
Winners are expected to be announced in early May.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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