Highway 309 Studio Sessions Contest
ISU Senior Samara Jane wins 2025 Highway 309 Studio Sessions Contest!
WGLT is excited to announce that Samara Jane has been named the winner of this year’s Highway 309 Studio Sessions Contest, presented by CEFCU! Samara is an Illinois State University senior from Normal. She is a School of Music student, majoring in music therapy.
Samara impressed our judges with her songwriting, powerful vocals and original sound that embodies the creative spirit of Illinois State University’s music scene. As the 2025 winner, she’ll receive her $1,000 prize and will record a live studio session at WGLT November 14.
Now it’s your turn to choose the Fan Favorite!
Our judges have selected five outstanding finalists for the Fan Favorite Award, and now it’s up to you to decide who takes home the title.
Each finalist represents an incredible range of talent. The Fan Favorite winner will receive a $500 prize.
Cast your vote
Voting is open through November 10.
Visit WGLT’s YouTube page to watch the top 5 entries and come back here to vote for your favorite performance.
About the Highway 309 Studio Sessions Contest
Highway 309 Studio Sessions, inspired by NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest, gives students a chance to share their music with the ISU campus and the Bloomington-Normal community. The contest is possible with support from our presenting sponsor, CEFCU.
Sept. 24 to Oct. 19: Video submissions are open
Late October: Judges make their selections
November: Winner is announced and perform Highway 309 Studio Session
