Canadian Greg Sczebel Wins in John Lennon Songwriting Contest

Going into its eighth year, the John Lennon Songwriting Contest is open to literally every musician in the world. All amateur and professional songwriters can enter the contest, but it was an artist that hails from the small town of Salmon Arm, British Columbia that nabbed the 2004 Grand Prize in the Gospel/Inspirational category. Contemporary Christian pop singer/songwriter Greg Sczebel is the one who gained himself the honour, for his song 'Here To Stay'.

The winning track can be found on Sczebel's (pronounced seh-bell) debut album, which also goes by the name of 'Here To Stay'. Upon its release in June 2004, 'Here To Stay' debuted at #33 in the Top 50 Christian music albums chart. To hear clips of 5 of the 11 songs featured on Sczebel's debut, go to his official site at: www.gregsczebel.com.

Just 20-years-old, Sczebel is already a rising star who has caught the attention of Canadian super producer David Foster, among others. Not only does the guy create music, but he's also involved with the charity World Vision, using his talents to help children around the world by endorsing and spreading the word.

Sczebel told Soul Shine today that he's planning to tour around Toronto closer to the summer, so keep checking back for tour dates. Currently Sczebel has just one performance scheduled, and that would be in his hometown of Salmon Arm on January 30th at the Sunwave Center.