OUR STORY
Why hasn’t anyone done this in Vegas before?
The Las Vegas Songwriters Festival was born from a simple question: Why hasn’t anyone done this in Vegas before? For award-winning songwriter Rob Hatch — known for penning chart-toppers like “I Don’t Dance” (Lee Brice) and “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away” (Justin Moore) — the idea came after years of performing at songwriter festivals around the country. He saw an opportunity to create something bigger, more accessible, and uniquely Vegas: a celebration of the stories behind the hits, told by the writers themselves.
That spark became a real conversation with two key collaborators: recording artist and songwriter Matt Warren, and longtime MGM Resorts executive Chuck Bowling. Warren, who has written songs for Darius Rucker, Gary Allan, and others, helped shape the creative vision and ultimately served as the host for the event. Bowling, who had just retired after a 25-year career with MGM — including roles as President & COO of both Mandalay Bay and Luxor — brought deep insight and support to help bring the idea to MGM Resorts International.
Together with Mike Every, partner in Entersong Entertainment and an integral force in operationalizing the vision, the team approached MGM Resorts International to bring the idea to life.
Crucial to that partnership was Paul Davis, Senior Vice President of Booking & Development for MGM Resorts, whose belief in the vision helped solidify MGM’s role as a founding partner. As one of the premier entertainment companies in the world, MGM Resorts brought unmatched resources, venues, and expertise to the table — making Mandalay Bay the ideal home for a festival that honors storytelling, collaboration, and world-class musical talent. The partnership was a natural fit, combining Nashville’s songwriting legacy with Las Vegas’s global stage.
The inaugural festival took place August 21–24, 2025, at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino — and it was a resounding success. Over four days, more than 50 legendary writers performed across five stages, sharing the stories behind over 300 No. 1 songs. The event featured songwriter rounds inspired by Nashville’s iconic Bluebird Café, intimate performances, and live Q&A sessions hosted by award-winning broadcaster Storme Warren.
From iconic writers like Dean Dillon, Liz Rose, and Bob DiPiero to unforgettable collaborations between longtime friends and co-writers, the festival delivered something rare in live entertainment: authenticity, intimacy, and unmatched musical storytelling.
Thanks to its overwhelming success, the Las Vegas Songwriters Festival is now an annual event — and one that every music lover should experience. With its unique blend of behind-the-scenes insight, world-class songwriting, and the unmatched energy of Las Vegas, it’s a festival unlike any other.
About Mandalay Bay:
Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino is set on 120 lush acres featuring Mandalay Bay Beach, a tropical pool paradise with real sand. The Michelob ULTRA Arena, award-winning restaurants, exhilarating entertainment, unique shopping, Shark Reef Aquarium and the 2-million-square-foot convention center combine to make Mandalay Bay a captivating Las Vegas resort destination. The resort offers three distinct hotel experiences: Mandalay Bay with 3,211 luxurious rooms and suites reflecting a modern tropical ambiance; Four Seasons Hotel, offering 424 rooms and suites; and the luxury all-suite W Las Vegas. Mandalay Bay is operated by MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information and reservations, visit mandalaybay.com, call toll free at (877) 632-7800, or find us on Instagram, Facebook and X.
About Entersong Entertainment:
Entersong Entertainment is a premier music event producer specializing in curating experiences that connect audiences with the music they love. From intimate performances to large-scale festivals, Entersong is passionate about celebrating the power of song and the incredible talent behind it. The Las Vegas Songwriters Festival reflects Entersong’s mission to spotlight the artistry of songwriting and create unforgettable moments for fans. Find out more at entersong.com or find us on Instagram or Facebook.