Hare's Paw Literary Journal, a publication with a demonstrated commitment to cross-disciplinary work, opens a dedicated music category for its next issue. The journal seeks original compositions and cover renditions, whether instrumental or lyrical, with an explicit editorial mandate: 'we want to feel the beat, not just hear it.' This phrasing signals a curatorial preference for work that prioritizes rhythm, embodied energy, and sonic immediacy over purely atmospheric or text-driven approaches. The category accommodates both vocal and non-vocal submissions, and lyric sheets may be included as supplementary text, though they will not be published. Submissions are limited to one song per entry, and files must be in MP3 format. The journal maintains a strict policy against previously published work, though self-publishing on music platforms does not disqualify a submission—a distinction that acknowledges the realities of independent music distribution while preserving the journal's interest in first serial publication. A reading fee of $5 (USD) applies. The deadline is November 1, 2026. While the journal does not specify a prize or honorarium in the provided information, the opportunity is best understood as a platform for exposure within a literary context that values music as a distinct artistic discipline. Artists should note that the journal's framing—'showcase your music'—suggests a curatorial rather than competitive model, with selected works presented alongside literary content. The absence of genre restrictions beyond the instrumental/lyrical binary indicates an openness to a broad range of musical styles, provided the work demonstrates rhythmic vitality and a compelling sonic presence.