(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) Oct. 2, 2013—Rising star Morgann McClanahan is the grand prize winner of the "Create New Artist Search," presented by CCM Magazine, TodaysChristianMusic, Dryve Artist Management, and BE Music & Entertainment. As such, McClanahan recorded a radio single co-produced by Chris August along with BE Music & Entertainment, will open a concert date for Chris August, and be featured in an upcoming issue of CCM Magazine, among other prizes, all on the heels of her recent acclaimed indie release, What I Do (8/13/13).  

A native of rural Virginia, McClanahan began writing music at the age of 10. She has since won two Gospel Music Association "Music in the Rockies" titles and recorded two independent projects, not including her newest effort, the 6-song EP What I Do, produced by GRAMMY nominated and Dove Award-winning "Producer of the Year" Rusty Varenkamp (Tenth Avenue North, Building 429, Sanctus Real).   

Varenkamp comments, "I was initially struck with how unique of a songwriter Morgann is. She has a lyrical depth that navigates beautifully between God’s truth and simple everyday conversation, while her songs still remain musically energetic and fun."  

McClanahan’s buzz only continues to build with her latest recognition—winner of  the 2013 "Create New Artist Search." Her submission "What I Do [Hallelujah]," from What I Do, was the top contender. Co-written with Varenkamp about offering up a life of praise through choosing to do whatever it is you do as unto the Lord, "What I Do [Hallelujah]," and McClanahan herself, impressed the judges.  

CCM Magazine editor Caroline Lusk recalls, "Out of all the entrants, it was clear that Morgann was the consummate artist. She had the voice, the writing skills, the fan base--you could tell that she’d done the work. It’s quite an accomplishment to open for an artist at the level of Chris August, and Morgann is definitely worthy of that spot."  

As part of her contest winnings, McClanahan will receive three months of mentoring from BE Music & Entertainment. James Hodgin, artist manager at Dryve, a division of BE Music & Entertainment, comments, "When we first heard Morgann’s submission, we knew right away that there was something special about her voice and the impact the song could make. After meeting with her and hearing her heart and more music, we believe she is definitely an artist to watch."  

Other critical music consumers agree, like leading Christian music media outlet New Release Tuesday, who recently gave What I Do 4 stars, touting, "These are the most transparent, vulnerable and authentic songs I've heard in quite a while . . .I hang on every single word and the stirring vocals, prayerful lyrics and musical arrangements are breathtaking."  

The title track and debut single from What I Do is now impacting Christian radio. Also, check out the official music video for "What I Do [Hallelujah]" at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7MVD-pcgps.

About Morgann McClanahan

Morgann McClanahan counts among her musical influences a rich, eclectic mashup of backwoods church music as well as Top 40 icons like Alanis Morissette and Jason Mraz. The result is an effortless sound that incorporates both organic and commercial elements. The songs on her second independent release, What I Do, were all written or co-written by McClanahan and reflect truths she’s learned about God, life and love.  

When not touring, McClanahan serves at her local church in Nashville and is involved with KINDLE, a special Christian music and leadership experience that inspires women from every generation to come together to celebrate their talents, prepare for service and faithfully live out The Great Commission.  

For more information on Morgann McClanahan, visit http://morgannofficial.com/. Also follow Morgann on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/morgannmcclanahan and Twitter: @morgannmcc.