Hyundai today announced the winners from its “Center Stage Powered By GRAMMY Amplifier” program at the Sound Cloud Event in Austin, Texas. Gentlemen Hall, Phillip Magnus Hartley and Barnaby Saints will each receive one of the following: a recording session with a leading GRAMMY producer, production of a music video with a noted producer and/or director, or an opening act performance slot on a major tour or music festival. Additionally, an online video series documenting each of the recording artists’ mentoring experiences will be produced for the GRAMMY website and launched later this year.
“Center Stage” is part of Hyundai’s multi-year partnership as the “Official Vehicle Partner” of the GRAMMY Awards. Hyundai teamed with The Recording Academy this year to create an innovative online platform designed to provide professional mentoring and exposure for artists discovered and amplified through the GRAMMY’s innovative GRAMMY Amplifier program.
Mike Shinoda, member of two-time GRAMMY winning band Linkin Park, served as curator for “Center Stage,” which was developed based on the success of GRAMMY Amplifier. Launched by The Recording Academy in January, GRAMMY Amplifier allows musicians to share their tracks via SoundCloud for a chance to have their music shared online by a panel of musical icons.
“Hyundai would like to thank everyone who participated in the initial launch of the ‘Center Stage’ program,” said Steve Shannon, vice president, marketing, Hyundai Motor America. “We can’t wait for the world to enjoy the great music of Gentlemen Hall, Phillip Magnus Hartley and Barnaby Saints and we look forward to following them on their musical journeys.”
Barnaby Saints is a Los Angeles-based band, started by singer/songwriter Erich Lennig. The band has been described as a mixture of bluegrass, gospel, indie rock and layered harmonies. Their songs fuse old folk story telling with lush vocals, banjo, fiddle, dobro and swelling B3 organ to create a unique soundscape.
Gentlemen Hall’s music is a combination of the high-handed anthemic choruses of the Killers, the retro synth melodies of MGMT, and a dash of wildman flutist antics. Hailing from Boston, the six members of Gentleman Hall are currently finishing their full length album which is due out in 2013.
Phillip Magnus Hartley is a hybrid artist from Baltimore. He is influenced by all genres of music, drawing inspiration from Janelle Monae, Brandy, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Prince, and Kenna. Hartley combines street style art with the fine arts, creating a unique style and a unique sound.
Courtesy of Hyundai Newsroom
