Even the Rocks Cry Out (ERCO) is a song-writing competition that has been held annually since 2010 to encourage youths to write worship songs. Firstly, ERCO was set up as a means to encourage our youths to write songs of their generation. Secondly, ERCO functions as a platform for youths to share their songs.
Through the sampler CDs and live showcases, these songs are able to go out to the churches with the hope of edifying and encouraging the local church with songs that are relatable – for these songs are cries from the hearts of Christians at this present moment in time. This has led to collaborations between song-writers from different backgrounds and churches.
If you are a budding lyricist or musician, get together with some friends and send us your songs! We pray that your songs will touch the lives of others and encourage the body of Christ.
Songwriting Tips
1. Spend time with God
The reason why a song reflects the heart of a generation is because worship is a response to what God is doing in our lives. It reflects the relationship we have with Him. Set aside time to get to know God, not just for the sake of song-writing, but because you really want to know Him and let your song be a response, a form of worship to Him.
2. Keep writing!
Not all songs you write will see the light of day — even the best professional song-writers find that only a handful of songs they have composed are good. The best way to ensure you have a great song is to keep writing and writing… every day if you can! Even if it is just a short verse, write it down or record it.
3. Collaborate with others
Some of the best songs are formed through collaboration with multiple writers. We believe that song-writers who collaborate tend to see the song as something which belongs to God and are open to critique and editing from others. It is a humbling experience to have lyrics changed and melodies shifted especially when you have poured your heart and soul into it, but when this happens there is surrender to God and really allows you to put aside your ego, giving God more room to work and inspire the process.
Open to: Youths between 13 – 30 years old
Closing Date: 31 Aug 2016
Win up to $1,000 worth of prizes!
Organised by TRAC Youth Ministries. For the detailed list of prizes and registration form, please visit truthmin.com/even-the-rocks-cry-out/
Mark Masillamoney –
is a Christian Ministry Staff with Trinity Annual Conference Youth Ministries (Truthmin).
Images courtesy of Truthmin