Songwriter

Gray Gurkin

Gray Gurkin - Songwriting Notables

Gray Gurkin is an award-winning versatile songwriter from Richmond, VA who writes rock, pop, country and inspirational songs that are built for Film, TV and Radio format. Gray started writing and performing his original songs at the age of 16 in local coffeehouses. He expanded his songwriting skills playing his unique blend of Pop Rock in local bands during the 90’s. After college he made a living as a solo acoustic act on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. From there he headed down to Atlanta, Georgia, joining forces with the vibrant acoustic community. During the late 90’s Gray was heavily influenced by Americana Music and decided to move to Austin, Texas to pursue his music. Gray performed often with his band "Hubcap Fetish" on Austin's known 6th Street and also recorded an acoustic CD titled “Six Pack”. Gray moved back to his hometown in 2002 and became involved in the songwriting side of the music business. This included commuting to Nashville to be a part of the songwriter’s scene. 

In 2007 Gray jumped back in the ring as a performing artist. His music branded projects "Glitter Boot" and "The Lost Souls" took on the big stages with a ton of energy backed by his signature songwriting. This was all possible by the talented musicians that helped back his projects. During this time, he released his CD titled "Horseshoes". In 2013 he released an acoustic CD, Signs of Hope" which showcased his craft accompanied by passionate vocals.


In 2017 Gray returned to his Rock Roots to complete his CD, Silverbolt. A team of Richmond's finest musicians help fill out the full band sound on the CD and live performances. The CD release party was a highlight of the year.


Recently Gray has been focusing on his songwriting for placement opportunities. Since 2019 he has been a semifinalist in the International Songwriting Competition (ISC) for his songs "Turquoise Sun", "High Hopes", "See Me Through" and "Enjoy the Ride". They received more than 26,000 entries, and semi-finalists made up only 9% of all entries. He has also placed in other notable song contest. His music videos have also grabbed attention picking up awards. He has had several songs added to prominent sync libraries and songs held by music supervisors for Film and TV placement.   


Stay tuned for more great original tunes by Gray Gurkin and where they will appear!


Gray Gurkin is back to playing out live! Make sure to check out a show this year and listen to some great acoustic music!


About

art  & Lutherie / Godin Guitars

Gray Gurkin (singer/songwriter) is proud to be an endorsee for Art & Lutherie / Godin Guitars. Gray has been playing these eco-friendly handcrafted Canadian acoustic guitars for over 15 years.

"I play hard and  have never found such a workhorse of a guitar. They sound great plugged in or just strumming in the living room, not to mention you can't beat the price. The Canadian woods A&L uses actually get better with age. I'm glad to be a partner with such a quality product."

Gray Gurkin   •  www.artandlutherieguitars.com

2024 International SongwritERS DAY SONG CONTEST
Honorable Mention VIDEO Award
Song:"Dream True"


2023 International Songwriting Competition (ISC)
semi-finalist award
Song: "Dream True" Category: Adult Contemporary


2023 West Coast Songwriter international song contest
Honorable Mention Award
Song: "turquoise sun” Category: Adult Contemporary

2023 UNSIGNED ONLY
semi-finalist award
Song: "turquoise sun" Category: Adult Contemporary


2023 International SongwritERS DAY SONG CONTEST
Honorable Mention VIDEO Award
Song:"turquoise sun"


2022 International Songwriting Competition (ISC)
semi-finalist award
Song: "turquoise sun" Category: Adult Contemporary


2022 West Coast Songwriter international song contest
Honorable Mention Award
Song: "High Hopes” Category: Gospel / Inspirational

2022 International SongwritERS DAY SONG CONTEST
Winner - 3RD Place music video Award
Song: "High Hopes" Category: Inspirational


2021 International Songwriting Competition (ISC)
semi-finalist award
Song: "High Hopes" Category: Christian / Inspirational


2021 International SongwritERS DAY SONG CONTEST
Winner - 2nd Place Song Award

Song: "SEe ME Through" Category: Inspirational

2020 International Songwriting Competition (ISC)
semi-finalist award
Song: "SEe ME Through" Category: Christian / Inspirational


2020 West Coast Songwriter International Song Contest
Honorable Mention Award
Song: "See Me Through” Category: Gospel / Inspirational


2020 International SongwritERS DAY SONG CONTEST
Honorable Mention VIDEO Award
Song: "Enjoy the Ride"


2019 International Songwriting Competition (ISC)
semi-finalist award
Song: "Enjoy the Ride" Category: AAA (Adult Alternative)


2019 WC Songwriters international song competition
Winner
song: “Show Me The Way" Category: Inspirational

2018 International Songwriting Competition (ISC)
semi-finalist award
Song: "Enjoy the Ride" Category: COUNTRY

2018 West Coast Songwriter International Song Contest
Honorable Mention Award
Song: "Miracle” Category: Inspirational
 
2010 Taylor Guitars and Elixir Strings: Test Drive Competition
First Round Winner (up and Coming Artist)
Song: Million Miles

2010 International Songwriting Competition (ISC)
semi-finalist award
song: "Southside Boyz" Category: COUNTRY
 
2008 16th Billboard World Songwriting Competition
Honorable Mention Award
Song: “Matchbook” Category: Rock

2008 16th annual Billboard World Songwriting Competition
Honorable Mention Award
Song: "Miracle” Category: Inspirational

2007 International John Lennon Songwriting Contest
Honorable Mention Award
Song: “Show Me The Way” Category: Inspirational

2007 15th annual Billboard World Songwriting Competition
Honorable Mention Award
Song: “Brand New Tattoo” Category: Country

These highly respected contests have thousands of entries, which are open to both amateur and professional songwriters.