November 9, 2026
Bart Blackburn winner check
"I hope you enjoy it," Blackburn said.

He knows the way — and now he’s got $10,000 to show for it.

Santa Monica local Bart Blackburn took the top prize in the Route 66 Centennial Song Contest with “I Know the Way,” a tribute to the open road and finding your way home.

Santa Monica Travel & Tourism and BroadStage honored the local songwriter at a Nov. 5 celebration at BroadStage, where attendees got a listen to the winning tune.

Produced by Nate Morgan, the song beat out competition in a contest inviting musicians and songwriters from around the world to capture Santa Monica’s connection to the Mother Road as it marks its 100th anniversary.

“Much like a journey down Route 66 that ends in Santa Monica, the making of this song was an adventure into new territory that ended in a beautiful place,” Blackburn said. “I hope you enjoy it.”

Ready for a test drive? Listen to “I Know the Way” below.


Sean Daly
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