Two Colombian composers win prestigious song competition

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Colombian songwriters, Andro y Kevin Rooke.

The U.S-based International Songwriting Competition (ISC), widely known as the most revered songwriting competition in the world, has announced its 2014 winners. With over 18,000 entries submitted from 118 countries, three Colombian artists are honored in the competition, garnering one Second Place win, one Third Place win, and one Honorable Mention, all in the Latin Music category.

Winning Second Place in the Latin Music category is Kevin Rooke from Bogotá, for the song “Caen Mis Sueños.” Rooke wrote his very first music piece at the age of 11 on the guitar after being profoundly influenced by the baroque guitar. It was after he became a university graduate that he started his career by writing and producing jingles for the advertising industry. In 2013, he released the album “Fin De Le Infancia” and since then he has been writing and performing under the umbrella Coctel Lounge, along with Colombian vocalist Lina Posada and other invited artists.

Winning Third Place in the Latin Music category for the song “Amor Amor” is Andro Sánchez, known simply as Andro. Hailing from Bogotá, Andro, is a singer/songwriter, producer, and sound engineer whose passion for music began at an early age, and since then he has taught himself to sing and play many different instruments.

A Berklee College of Music graduate, he is currently working on his first EP which will incorporate Latin American grooves, typical Colombian instruments, and new electronic sounds. Additionally, Juan Camilo Borja from  garners an Honorable Mention in the Latin Music category for the song “Como Si Fuera La Primera Vez.”

“ISC encourages songwriters to create, develop, and challenge their artistry by creating something truly meaningful,” says Candace Avery, Founder and Director. “It is vital for all artists to be recognized for their talents, as well as to be awarded respect and honor for their accomplishments. Our Colombian winners this year embody what ISC stands for and deserve to be recognized, and we encourage all Colombian songwriters to enter the competition.”

The overall Grand Prize is awarded to Australian singer/songwriter Vance Joy for his song “Riptide”. This marks the first time in the 14-year history of the competition that any song has received perfect scores from every judge. Upon hearing the news of his win, Joy said, “It is such an honor to win this songwriting prize. Writing songs is what gives me a feeling of purpose. I’m proud to receive this award voted on by my songwriting peers.” The song is being called an instant classic by both critics and fans alike, not only in the USA but also across the world. Joy’s career is clearly on the rise, with sold-out tours, worldwide chart success, and critical acclaim.

So congratulations to Kevin, ‘Andro’ and Juan Camilo for making a mark in music and composing in the name of Colombia!

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