Midas Records Nashville Signs Colgate Country Showdown Winner Michelle Rene; Dynamic Vocalist Earns Title 'Best New Artist in Country Music'

LOS ANGELES, CA (Luck Media & Marketing, Inc.) - Continuing to make exciting news in the country music world, Midas Records Nashville announces the signing of Michelle Rene, winner of the 24th annual Colgate Country Showdown, held at Nashville's legendary Ryman Auditorium in January. A poised entertainer with a remarkable resume, the Arizona native now boasts a savings account $100,000 richer as a result of the big win.

"I really didn't enter the Colgate Country Showdown expecting to win the money or a recording contract," Rene says of the contest, which over the years has turned several young newcomers into country music superstars. "I entered to gain experience and exposure. It's been an education. I've performed in front of a lot of people and with my new home at Midas Records, I'm truly in the music business."

Midas Nashville's A&R Department is helmed by Grammy-nominated country hitmaker Keith Follese and acclaimed country music publisher Brad Allen. Two of the most notable behind the scenes creative forces on the country scene today, Follese and Allen established a working partnership in 1998 with the publishing venture Encore Entertainment, which has flourished on the strength of over 200 cuts placed with major recording artists.
Follese says, "Michelle Rene has star written all over every note she sings. We are thrilled to be involved with an artist destined for such a bright future."

Dean Unkefer, President of SPI, which manages the Colgate Country Showdown, says, "The Midas Records Nashville affiliation is an exciting opportunity for Michelle, and a great way for us to showcase her upcoming single on our Showdown radio stations and in local tie-ins with Colgate retailers."

Michelle Rene's first single, "Kick It Up A Notch," will debut on country radio stations May 1st, preceded by two months of syndicated TV airing of the 24th Annual Colgate Country Showdown National Finals, covering 90% of U.S. households. And Great American Country (GAC) will broadcast multiple airings of the Finals beginning May 1st. Midas Records plans a major promotional tour.
Midas Records Nashville can be reached at 1108 16th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37212. Phone: 615-401-6567