GQ

The son of an Elementary School Teacher and a Christian Minister, GQ was born Gary Quinn on September 8, 1980, in Edmonton, Alberta. The youngest of five children, GQ learned the value of hard work and dedication early on. Listening to the radio as a small child he used to emulate the sounds and moves of various singers and perform them at family gatherings. With the support from family and friends GQ decided to hone his craft and share his talent with the world. He began performing publicly at age of 10, winning a singing competition in BC at age 14, and subsequently competing before 10,000 people in the Exhibition Musical Competition in Vancouver. Right then he knew his Destiny was to be an Entertainer. He worked long hours to developed his stage presence and song writing skills by singing in several R&B groups and choirs during his teens, His ascension onto the musical landscape was set in motion. Working three steady jobs to afford studio time, and living on his own since the age of 16, GQ would spend his nights at home writing lyrics and poetry. As a soloist, GQ began performing at several Industry Functions and opening for artists Mack 10, Next, Heat, Jazmin, Maestro Fresh Wes, Ora, Temperence and Wade O. Brown. Through his powerful work ethic and musical flexibility GQ earned the opportunity to open for his idols Kci and JoJo (previously of JODECI).



With his soulful “urban tenor” voice and a cutting-edge sense of style, singer/songwriter GQ became a Force on the Canadian music scene. His single "Angel In My Bed" reached the # 8 Bullet and held steady there for 9 straight weeks. This unheard of Feat by an Independent Canadian Artist earned GQ a coveted nomination for Best New Group or Solo Artist (AC) at the 2003 Canadian Radio Music Awards (CRMAs) alongside household names Avril Lavigne, Remy Shand, Sam Roberts, and Glenn Lewis. His exceptional song writing skills on X-quisite’s “Bad Girl” were also recognized with a 2004 Juno nomination and his co-write on “Sassy Thang” were recognized by several radio pundits in 2005. GQ's lyrics, catchy hooks, and amazing vocal style captured the ear of several Canadian labels. While appreciating the interest from Canadian Music labels, GQ was focused on pursuing his dream internationally. He continues to pursue that goal. His influences include Legends Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Ritchie, Genesis, U2 and the new school cats Jodeci, Glenn Lewis, Maroon 5, Dru Hill, Musiq, Blackstreet, Jagged Edge, and John Legend.



GQ’s personal outlook gives new meaning to the term soulful. His humbleness and creativity, mixed with a sensual Blue Eyed Soul vibe set him apart from every conceivable artist to date. He has so much to offer to the music industry at home and abroad and is determined to show it. Possessing an explosive crossover appeal, stunning good looks, and an irresistible charm GQ is headed for Stardom. Success in Music is his Destiny, and his Destiny is close at hand.



Accomplishments For GQ



2002 - GQ bursts on the Canadian AC/BDS Top 50 with his debut single “Angel In My Bed.” The song proves Irresistible, remaining in the BDS /AC TOP 50 for the remainder of the year, during which it occupied the TOP 10 for an Astonishing 9 weeks! This is unprecedented for a Canadian Artist, particularly at such a conservative format. ­ GQ brightens the season with the “Holiday EP” featuring his soulful version of the classic “Drummer Boy,” recorded with the internationally renowned Canadian Brass. It becomes the highest new entry on the BDS/ AC TOP 50 at #33. In its first week of rotation it cracks the Top 30, remaining in the TOP 30 for the rest of the Holiday Season.



2003 ­ “Angel In My Bed” Earns GQ a Canadian Radio Music Award (CRMA) nomination as Best New Solo Artist Or Group. This places him alongside fellow rising stars Avril Lavigne, Sam Roberts, Glenn Lewis, and Remy Shand.



2004 ­ GQ starts writing songs for th release of the X-quisit debut album. 4 out of the 7 songs written are selected for inclusion on the album, 3 of which are singled out as the first 3 radio releases. ­ “Bad Girl”, a song written by GQ, hits # 20 on the BDS/ CHR TOP 50. It remains in the TOP 30 for the next 6 weeks. ­ “Bad Girl” is nominated for a Juno Award for Best Soul / R&B Recording. The Year In Review for Canadian Radio has “Bad Girl” Listed as the 5th most played song of 2003. “Sassy Thang”, another GQ co-write, cracks the BDS/ CHR TOP 30, moving up to #10 on the BDS/ CHR TOP 50, fixing itself in the TOP 20 for 5 weeks. This is closely followed by 3 weeks in the TOP 30. ­ Year In Review magazine lists “Sassy Thang” as the 3rd most played song at hit radio for 2004. ­ GQ’s Duet “This Christmas” with Mirella, formerly of Sugar Jones, fills the ears of urban radio listeners from coast to coast remaining just outside the TOP 30 for its duration. GQ releases his Second Single "R U the One " which hits tops 30 status, as well as his soothing balad for lovers called "Anniversary Song".



GQ is currently located in the beautiful Vancouver area writing for producers all over the country. His main contact page on myspace allows artists and producers alike easy access to his services www.myspace.com/trugq. He is currently unsigned and looking for a new label to call home. His undeniable talent will find its way onto a radio near you once again in the near future. Look out for this up and coming musical star.