The Auburn University Department of Music and Lucky Man Studio are proud to announce the winner of the Don and Alexandra Clayton Recording Arts Honors, a groundbreaking program designed to transform student talent into industry opportunity.
The program spotlights Auburn’s most accomplished music students by awarding one artist a fully produced, marketed and distributed three-song professional commercial release — crafted to meet today’s music industry standards.
Winner - Jack Sears
With a gritty and soulful voice, Jack Sears brings a punch to your typical singer-songwriter sound. Influenced by the sounds of iconic acts like The Smashing Pumpkins and The 1975, as well as the lyrics of writers like Jason Isbell and Lizzy McAlpine, Jack’s music brings in elements from all decades and supports them with lyrics that are introspective and real. With his first single “Cry” out now, Jack has been making waves as a writer and vocalist across the city of Auburn.
All of the finalists competed in a live performance event in Lucky Man Studio on Jan. 24. The energy in the room was great, all of the performances were fantastic, and Jack came out on top! Read more about the competition in the Auburn Plainsman.
Runners Up – Anna Coulson, Walter Lloyd, Syler Stone
Each of the three runners up will receive a one-song professional commercial release. Congratulations to these artists as well!
Production on the projects will begin immediately and will culminate with a special concert release event on April 24, 2026, in Lucky Man Studio, with the winners performing their new releases. This is a ticketed event. Tickets will be available through the Auburn Department of Music.
“This program is more than a competition — it is a launchpad for Auburn students into the world of professional recorded music,” said program namesake Don Clayton. “The Clayton Award will transform talent into opportunity, showcasing Auburn’s commitment to creativity, innovation and excellence in the recording arts.”