Music has become as much a part of doing business as it has a form of entertainment. We use it in films, ads, podcasts, for streaming services, music sales and for entertainment.

A new Hunter-based initiative is putting the spotlight on the music industry and harnessing the power of local business and talent to highlight the important role that the music scene plays in localculture and economic life.

TIP JAR is a songwriting competition driven by community and business to highlight the vibrancy and talent of the local music scene and to grow opportunities for and recognition of the music industry and creative individuals.

Project managed by Kian West from Oasis Social Media and an initiative of EAO Entertainment with the support of Newcastle Council, Newcastle NOW and Newcastle Live, the competition will be open to local entrees throughout July and August. The project will also offer free music courses through TAFE, two nights of live music and a grand finale performance of the 10 best-supported acts in September.

Kian said TIP JAR is a fine example of the industry and local business working together and embracing an innovative initiative that further positions the Hunter region as a smart city.

“We have a commitment from Australian Hotels Association to support the project along with a range of member venues who have come onboard, including The Cambridge Hotel, Stag & Hunter Hotel, Foghorn Brewhouse and The Edwards,” Kian said.

“Local media have already started to pledge their support, including Newcastle Mirage and Hunter Headline, and we’ve received a lot of interest from several radio stations. Murray’s Craft Brewery have stepped up as major sponsors and nationally we have the support of APRA/AMCOS and Source Music Publishing.

“All the business support ensures the success of the project and builds on the creative economy of the region.”

Singer/song writer Spencer Scott said he and bandmates from Paper Thin were putting the finishing touches on a new track in a bid to win the inaugural TIP JAR contest.

“I entered my first songwriting competition when I was 19,” Scott, now 23, said.

“With the prize money I won, I was able to travel to Melbourne to play more shows and expand my audience, which included a show with Wil Wagner of The Smith Street Band. This online songwriting competition is an exciting way to create something new, and also showcase some of the amazing talent we have.”

The Tip Jar pilot project will see local musicians upload songs to earn online votes from fans in the inaugural competition before the plaudits become financial rewards or “tips” — via electronic fund transfers — in subsequent contests.

IMAGE | Paper Thin will enter the Hunter-based TIP JAR initiative this year.