Wellingborough indie singer songwriter Selina Swaby has received honours for one of her compositions, writes Nigel Swaby.
This is the third time she has been recognised in the US based SongDoor International Songwriting Competition. Being one of the leading global songwriting venues for independents, it provides songwriters from around the world with a platform to showcase their material.
This year the judging panel included Jason Blume whose songs have been recorded by Britney Spears, the Backstreet Boys and the Gipsy Kings. Steve Avedis formerly an engineer and or producer at MCA, Capitol Records, Columbia Records and Sony was another judge along with Bill Shore. Bill’s credentials include having over 200 songs recorded by a plethora of A-list artists including three times Grammy winner Country singer Porter Wagoner. During his career Bill’s songs have resulted in 40 million sales.
LeAnn Zotta, Executive Vice President for SongDoor International Songwriting Competition, personally sent a note congratulating Selina. She said that with over 20,000 entries from 21 countries this year, receiving an honour wasn’t easy.
Hear Selina’s song on Vimeo here
Asked whether Selina has her sights set on fame and fortune, she replied: “Sure I’d very much like to be a household name, but not for the reasons you may think. You see my husband Nigel and I have been producing music for a ‘purpose’ – that is to invest all the profits from music sales into sustainable humanitarian projects, helping those living on the edge or in poverty in practical ways. As Nigel simply puts it, to bring smiles to sad faces.”
Currently the Swabys support Lar Bethel Orphanage in Guinea-Bissau, in West Africa. Nigel said: “Some of the children at this little orphanage were left to die on the streets starving and abandoned. Some of the youngsters come to the centre carrying the AIDS death sentence. It’s gut wrenching stuff.”
Reverend Richard Burbidge of Billing Parish Church, commented on the Swabys’ resolve. “I have known Nigel & Selina for the last couple of years, and have witnessed the extreme hardship they have personally gone through, both financially and ill health. To continue to forge ahead with a mission to serve others through their gifting is truly commendable and a selfless act.”
