A live music hall
Email Updates

2026 B.W. Stevenson Memorial

Songwriting Contest 

DEADLINE: JUNE 13TH

Photo credit: CMT.com

Why B.W. Stevenson?

B.W. Stevenson or Buckwheat Stevenson was a Dallas singer songwriter who died unexpectedly in 1988 at 38.

He co-wrote the chart-topping-country-pop hit “My Maria” with Daniel Moore, which was later covered by Brooks & Dunn in 1996.

BW played at Poor David’s Pub on McKinney Avenue & Lower Greenville several times. We started the contest in 1989 to memorialize his impact on Poor David’s and the Dallas music scene.

How does it work?

  • You send us two original songs.
  • We listen to your submissions & pick 12 semi-finalists
  • The 12 semi-finalists play at Poor David’s Pub for a panel of judges who choose 6 finalists
  • The 6 finalists then play for a new panel of judges & pick 1st, 2nd & 3rd place winners

What do I win?

  • 1st Place wins $1000 and an opener spot at Poor David’s Pub
  • 2nd Place wins $300
  • 3rd Place wins $200

What are the dates?

  • Saturday, June 13fth, 2026 
    • Submission deadline
  • Wednesday, June 17th, 2026
    • Semi-finals
  • Wednesday, June 24th, 2026
    • Finals

How do I enter?

Pay entry fee of $30:

  • Venmo @highest-hopes OR
  • Mail us a check - make it out to Poor David’s Pub

Send us two original songs:

  • By email:
    • david@poordavidspub.com
  • By mailing a CD to:
    • Poor David’s Pub
      1313 Botham Jean Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215
 Back To Top