The Auburn University Department of Music and Lucky Man Studio are proud to announce the launch of the Don and Alexandra Clayton Recording Arts Honors, a groundbreaking program designed to transform student talent into industry opportunity.
The program will spotlight 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.
The Clayton Recording Arts Honors elevates Auburn University’s most promising voices. Each year, the program will recognize exceptional student talent whose artistry reflects both technical excellence and creative vision.
Through the support of Don and Alexandra Clayton and Lucky Man Studio, recipients are provided not only with recognition, but also with resources, mentorship, and opportunities to share their work with a broader audience. The program affirms Auburn’s commitment to shaping musicians who will lead, inspire, and innovate in the recording arts for generations to come.
This initiative will also serve as a beacon of Auburn’s artistic and technical standards, positioning the university on the national stage as a leader in recorded music innovation.
“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.”
Program Highlights
- Student Artist Competition: Through a competitive selection process, Auburn students will vie for the chance to be named the first Clayton Award recipient. Three finalists will be chosen, each auditioning live at Auburn’s state-of-the-art Lucky Man Studio.
- Roar Music: Auburn’s studio-affiliated record label will serve as the content hub for production, marketing, and distribution.
- Professional Recording Project:
- The overall winner will receive a three-song release produced by award-winning producer Trammell Starks at Lucky Man Studio, a package valued at $45,000.
- The first and second Runner-Ups each will receive a one-song release-ready recording project in Lucky Man Studio.
- Marketing & Distribution:
- The winner will receive a full marketing / branding package, social media campaign, video production, and distribution on all major digital platforms, culminating in a high-profile launch event.
- Second and Third place recipients will receive a comprehensive marketing plan and performance at the launch event.
Please be advised that this is an artist performance award rather than a songwriting award. The final repertoire will be determined by the producer, following selection criteria consistent with those employed by major record label A&R divisions. Student compositions are welcome for consideration; however, only the most compelling works will be selected. To further ensure artistic excellence, submissions from established professional songwriters will also be solicited.
Program Timeline
Application Period: October 6 – November 10, 2025
- December 3, 2025: Finalists announced
- December 9, 2025: Finalist meet and greet with program founder Don Clayton, Producer and Chief Engineer Trammell Starks, and Music Department Representatives at Lucky Man Studio
- January 13, 2026: In-person finalist auditions and interviews at Lucky Man Studio, winner announced immediately following performances
Production & Release:
- Pre-production begins: January 15, 2026
- Official Release Event: April 17, 2026
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the entry application and submit the following:
- A performance demo (audio or video, up to 3 songs)
- An artist statement (300–500 words) describing their long-term artistic goals
- A resume detailing performance experience and achievements
Entry Fee: $20
Media Contact: Trammell Starks, Director & Chief Engineer, Lucky Man Studio
📞 770-752-7321
📧 tls0068@auburn.edu