Billy Ray Cyrus + Patty Loveless Want Your Songs!

Billy Ray Cyrus and Patty Loveless are coming together for a good cause. The singers, together with a panel of music industry experts, will judge a songwriting competition to raise awareness of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Launched by the DRIVE4COPD national public health initiative and the CMA, 'Tune Up for COPD Songwriting Competition' challenges amateur songwriters to pen a new DRIVE4COPD song with a motivational message that will encourage others to proactively take control of their health and their lives.

"I learned at an early age from my grandfather, who was a pastor, both the impact COPD symptoms have on ones life and the power of a person's voice," Billy Ray says. "I've taken those lessons with me throughout the years. I know music motivates people to take action, and that's why I'm asking America to help us find the next great song to drive awareness of COPD."

The DRIVE4COPD campaign anthem, 'Drive,' was written last year by Patty Loveless in honor of her sister, Dottie, who succumbed to COPD at the young age of 48. The disease is one of the top 10 leading causes of death, and the only one on the rise.

Contestants must upload videos and lyric sheets before April 15. All entries will be judged by Billy Ray, Patty and members of DRIVE4COPD partnering organizations, such as the CMA, NASCAR, American Association for Respiratory Care, COPD Alliance, COPD foundation and U.S. COPD Coalition.

The winner (and a guest) will receive a three-day, two-night trip to Nashville in June to perform his or her song live at the CMA Music Festival.

Fans will be able to log onto DRIVE4COPD to view and vote on all song entries. The 'fan favorite,' determined by those votes, will be showcased online.

For more information about DRIVE4COPD, and complete competition rules for the songwriting contest, click here.