The John Hartford Memorial Festival is proud to announce the winner of their 2017 John Hartford Songwriter’s Challenge. 16 year old Micahan Boney from Claxton, GA, won first place with her song “Gone Too Soon”. A song about how the late Father of Newgrass, John Hartford inspired her.
Ernie Hill, JHMF contest coordinator said, “We require our contestants to write a song, less than 4 minutes long, that either mentions John Hartford or uses at least one of thirty original John Hartford song titles that we provide. Michahlan not only used several of our required components, but she crafted a soulful, inspirational song with a beautiful melody.”
Micah was introduced to the music of John Hartford by her banjo teacher, noted musician, Bob Carlin, who had produced an album by John Hartford.
“John had a playfulness to his craft, especially seen in his songwriting. Although I understand he was a very driven person, he had to be, in order to accomplish all he did in his life. His songwriting always had the perfect combination of heart-felt sentiment, and whimsy. His creative lyrics and performances touched the souls of others which after all is what music is all about.” Micahlan Boney
Micahlan will perform her winning song and another of choice at the 2017 John Hartford Memorial Festival held the first week of June at the Bill Monroe Music and Camping Park in Bean Blossom, IN.
Read an exclusive interview with Micahlan and hear all top ten songs, and learn about how you can enter the 2018 contest and attend the 7th Annual John Hartford Memorial Festival at www.hartfordfest.com
