August 23, 1996
(Industry, Trade and Technology)
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Newfoundlander wins Q107 Home Grown 1996 music contest

Chad Richardson of St. John's, Newfoundland won first prize in the Q107 Home Grown 1996 contest at the Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto, Ontario earlier this week. The singer/song writer took top honours out of 2000 bands that entered the contest.

Richardson's prizes included $15,000 cash, $10,000 worth of equipment and a recording contract. He is also featured on the Home Grown CD which is expected to be in stores shortly. Richardson is the only act from outside of Ontario to be featured on the CD.

In February 1995, Richardson released his first album entitled "Two People" in stores. He expects his new album "The Legend of Brud" will be available for purchase in mid-October. The young singer/song writer says he's naming the album after his best friend's father who doubted his seriousness of becoming a singer.

"Chad Richardson is an example of the tremendous talent we have in this province," said Charles Furey, Minister of Industry, Trade and Technology. "His persistence to succeed in a very competitive industry is to be applauded. We wish him all the best in the future."

The 26 year-old, who describes himself as a die-hard Newfoundlander, lives in Toronto.