Rapid City’s own Johnny Hastings struck gold at this year’s Wild West Songwriters Festival, earning First Place in the Regional Songwriting Competition — and reminding everyone why the Black Hills continues to be a wellspring of original music and heartfelt storytelling.
Dubbed one of the “Best Live Music Festivals for Fans” and “Top Ten Songwriter’s Festivals You Don’t Want to Miss,” the Wild West Songwriters Festival brought together talented writers and performers for three days of free performances, community spirit, and unforgettable moments. Songwriters who’ve crafted hits for Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Reba McEntire, Faith Hill, Garth Brooks, and more filled the streets, bars, and stages of Deadwood with music and inspiration.
This year’s competition saw incredible local talent across the board, with Todd Kieffer taking 2nd place and Amanda Stewart finishing 3rd — all three delivering moving performances that showcased the depth and creativity of the regional music scene.
A Conversation with Winner Johnny Hastings
Following his win, Hastings sat down with the Rapid City Post to talk about songwriting, last-minute inspiration, and what the festival means to artists and audiences alike.
Q: How did you prepare for the festival?
Johnny: “Like everything else I do — waited until the week of to get my act together.”
Q: Did you perform songs that were already finished, or did you write new material for the festival?
Johnny: “I had songs ready before being added to the lineup, but I wanted to bring something fresh. I pulled out an old guitar for inspiration, and actually bought a new resonator the same week. I ended up writing a brand-new tune just days before the event, and finally finished another song I’d been sitting on for years.”
Q: What makes this event important to you personally?
Johnny: “Being able to share original thoughts and songs with audiences who are listening from the heart. Playing in the corner of a noisy bar can make you feel like what you’re doing doesn’t matter. This festival reminds me why I dedicate my life to music.”
Q: How do you think this event impacts the local music community?
Johnny: “It’s great for both artists and listeners. It gives musicians a chance to try new material and gives audiences a chance to connect — to hear where songs come from and why they were written. Anything that supports the arts and brings people together for music is great for the community.”
Q: How does it feel to have taken home First Place?
Johnny: “I just want to connect with people and make them feel something. That’s the goal — and it means a lot that listeners connected with me enough to choose me as the top writer. All the performers were top-notch, and it was an honor to be part of it. Thanks for all the love and respect from everyone.”
Looking Ahead
Festival organizers and fans alike are already feeling the post-show buzz, eager for next year’s event. “We’re already missing everyone,” read the festival’s closing statement. “Keep strumming, keep singing, and keep making the world a little more magical.”
From seasoned hitmakers to up-and-coming voices like Johnny Hastings, the Wild West Songwriters Festival continues to prove that the heart of country, folk, and Americana beats strong right here in the Black Hills.