Winner to Perform at 2008 GMA Music in the Rockies

Christian music lifestyle web site HearItFirst.com and the Gospel Music Association (GMA) announce the winner of this year’s third annual Battle of the Bands competition, Orlando, Fla.-based Generation Letter. The five-member rock band will perform at GMA Music in the Rockies in August.

Comprising George Romanacce (vocals/guitar), Stephen Morgan (guitar), Alex Couch (guitar), Joey Phillips (bass), and John Ripley (drums), Generation Letter originated from its passion to glorify God through music and to tell the great story passed down from generation to generation. John Ripley, the band’s drummer, says about its win: "As we evaluate the talents and creativity all of the artists that were involved in this competition, it is truly remarkable that we were chosen. We are thrilled beyond words to have this opportunity from GMA and Hear It First to take the stage at GMA Music in the Rockies."

From March 25 – April 27 bands were asked to submit their entries at www.hearitfirst.com/indiescovery. Voting took place in three rounds during the month of May, at which time fans were able to view band bios, pictures and hear full-length songs. Hosted by Indiescovery, HearItFirst.com’s portal specifically devoted to independent artists, the promotion is designed to introduce listeners to the best up-and-coming talent in Christian music.

The grand prize package includes an all-expense-paid trip for four, including registrations, to GMA Music in the Rockies, where Generation Letter will perform a 9-minute opening act set alongside CCM mainstay artists Stellar Kart and MercyMe. First runner-up, singer/songwriter Nathan Arnold from Vancouver, Wash. will also have the chance to perform at the event. The second runner up, Long Beach, N.Y.-based band Cassidy will receive four free registrations.

Director of marketing for GMA, Gabriel Aviles weighs in on the Music in the Rockies experience, "GMA Music in the Rockies is a place of discovery for new and emerging artists. We are thrilled that HearItFirst.com’s Battle of the Bands’ contest winners are going to be a part of this incredible experience."

Mark Adkison, HearItFirst.com president and founder, additionally comments, "HearItFirst.com is honored to join forces with GMA’s Music in the Rockies to bring unprecedented opportunities to talented, deserving, undiscovered bands. We are thrilled to be a part of Generation Letter’s journey, and look forward to many more partnerships with independent bands in the future."

For more information on Generation Letter, visit www.generationletter.com.