Thanks man, glad you enjoyed it :D The bonus payments is just some added gravy, a way to try and show your all winners in our eyes - I just wish I had the bank to roll that movement lol.
As for the questions, the people above include some that did all 8 weeks and some that just did one or two - that list is the top 22 ranked places overall and in no particular order, we look at this as a challenge more than a contest.
If your wanting to know how many people did all 8 weeks I can ask @passion-ground for the exact numbers, he is our music loving numbers man (aka he can math better than Krystle).
I agree being a judge in both Open Mic and Songwriters Challenge, I got to see the different elements of the two events - there was a far more emotional and intimate space with Songwriters, where I was amazed by peoples ability to be open and share such a personal part of themselves.
This is why we kinda feel like we need to try and do this again, it was just so fulfilling in so many profound ways - it's a gift I will cherish for years to come!
Much love <3