Singer-songwriter Roger Kuhn  may not be a household name; not yet anyway.  But after winning the first NEXT Gay Mega Star competition this past weekend in New York, he’s well on his way to breaking into the big time. Kuhn’s musical style is undefinable   but unforgettable; a blend of folk-country-alternative with a soaring vocal range uniquely his own.  Without a doubt, he defies easy stereotyping—a gifted gay artist of Creek/  German heritage from North Dakota who calls New York City his home. 

Sponsored by NEXT Magazine,  the competition celebrates the talent of gay performers whose music embraces that part  of their identity. With the advent of MTV’s Logo  network and Sony Records “Music With a Twist” division, the ability for gay and lesbian artists to attract a mainstream audience has never been stronger, as evidenced by Melissa Etheridge’s Academy Award win earlier this year. 

With representatives of “Music With a Twist,” Sirius Satellite  Radio and Ultra Records serving as judges, Kuhn blew them away with an acoustic rendition of his song “What’s Your Name” followed by an a capella performance. By Sunday, he had moved into the final round of competition where he was named NEXT Gay Mega Star. 

"This is proof—no no pun intended, in reference to his debut CD Proof—that being the best of who you are is the best thing you can offer the world,” said his manager, Tara J. Ryan of Tijer Lily Co.  “This win is only just the beginning of big things to come for Roger Kuhn." 

Along with his cash prize, Kuhn will now appear Live on Sirius OutQ Radio  www.siriusoutq.com  along with other major press appearances and new opportunities.

Congratulations, Roger, from all of us at NativeVue!