CATAWOL Records concludes the Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D Song Contest, with Westbound crowned the Grand Winner.
After a remarkable Contest journey that brought together 32 Acts, the decisive Finals delivered a clear winner, along with unprecedented ties for First and Third Runners-Up.
The outcome is a powerful reminder of what this project has stood for from the very beginning: creativity, solidarity, and speaking out against adult bullying in hobby spaces.
The winning Song is now recognised as the official campaign anthem, closing the Contest on a high note and marking a major moment for both the label and the wider community.
Westbound Takes the Crown
Irish boy band Westbound emerged as the standout of the Finals, securing the Grand Winner title by a convincing margin.
Known for confident delivery, broad appeal, and a polished teen pop-rock sound, Westbound entered the Contest with momentum, and their Finals entry confirmed them as one of the strongest contenders.
A fan reacting to the outcome said:
Westbound had that perfect mix of energy and accessibility. They felt like a Finals Act from the start, and it’s no surprise they came out on top.
Another supporter added:
Without taking anything away from the others, Westbound brought something fresh without overshadowing the message. It feels right that their Song is the official anthem.
Four Runners-Up Join the Honour Roll
The Finals have also confirmed an unprecedented outcome: four Runners-Up, due to the scoring system.
Fan favourite Axel King and The Roses, and early favourite High School Dropout are joint First Runners-Up, based on total points and votes.
Similarly, Soline Bellefort and Synth & Son are joint Third Runners-Up.
Regardless of the results, each Finalist contributed to the Contest’s bigger purpose, helping to turn a Song Contest into a public statement against bullying and exclusion in hobby spaces.
Reactions From Label Insiders
Label insiders share fans’ overall sentiment, with one label insider commenting:
Westbound had a Finals performance that built trust. They were consistent, stylish, and easy to root for, which matters in a public vote. They deserved this moment.
Another added:
Every Act in the Finals had winning potential, but Westbound connected with voters in a way that carried them through.
Label insiders showed widespread appreciation for the depth of the Final Stage, with particular praise for Soline Bellefort’s achievement with a non-English Song, and for SoraNami overcoming fears and adversity.
Many noted that the Contest succeeded in its goal of highlighting talent and the values of resilience and creative courage.
A Statement From CATAWOL Records
A CATAWOL Records spokesperson stated:
We are thrilled to congratulate Westbound on becoming the Grand Winner of the Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D Song Contest.
This Contest has been about more than music from the very beginning: it has been about raising awareness and using creativity to challenge the kind of bullying too many people still face in hobby spaces.
We want to thank every Act, every fan, and every supporter who helped make this journey powerful. Whatever the result, the message has been carried forward with strength, and we are proud of what this Contest has achieved.
Thank You for Being Part of the Contest
CATAWOL Records extends its gratitude to everyone who supported the Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D Song Contest through every Stage and Round.
While the Contest has come to a dramatic and celebratory close, its purpose continues: to amplify voices, build community, and stand against bullying wherever it appears.
Fans and supporters are encouraged to celebrate the result, revisit all the performances on the Contest page, and continue supporting the campaign’s anti-bullying message.