Rolling Stone and D’Addario held the Next Young Gun Contest to choose the final Young Gun; guitarists everywhere were asked to submit a video of themselves playing their own original songs, licks, riffs, or solos. D’Addario and Rolling Stone chose eight finalists and opened online voting, in addition to the votes of a distinguished panel of musicians. The winter, Marcus Machado, was announced December 9th, and the grand prize includes a profile and coverage on RollingStone.com, a trip to Los Angeles to record at some of the country’s top studios (including Swing House and TRS West), a gig at an LA club, and a one year supply of D’Addario strings.
Contest winner, Marcus Machado, at 30 years old has been playing guitar for virtually his entire life and amazingly, began playing professionally at the age of 10. Machado has performed at the House of Blues, was featured on CNN and several TV and radio shows, and even appeared in the movie, Rosewood.
Visit his Rolling Stone profile at:
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/features/marcus-machado-young-guns-winner-20141209
“Marcus’ talent is undeniable,” says Jeffrey Kaye, Global Artist Relations Director at D’Addario & Co., Inc. “But it’s the love and passion in his playing that got him the votes! We’re proud to call him a Young Gun and know that the best is yet to come.”
The Young Guns launch coincided with D’Addario’s latest innovation, NYXL Electric Guitar Strings.
