2016 Durango Sole Performer Award

After hundreds of entries and hours of listening, we are excited to announce that Durango Boots has named singer-songwriter Jamie Kent as the winner of its Sole Performer Contest. A music industry road warrior, Kent has honed his talents by playing more than 200 shows a year, including tours with Huey Lewis & The News, The Doobie Bros, America, Foreigner, The Wood Brothers, Marc Broussard, Ellis Paul, and multiple showcases at the South By Southwest Music Festival. He is currently working on his second full-length album with Grammy nominated producerp Dave Brainard, which will be released in the spring of 2016.

“With his penchant for live performances and Americana-influenced songs you can’t help but sing along to, he is the perfect fit for the Durango brand,” said Erin DeLong, Brand Manager for Durango. “We’re looking forward to Jamie representing Durango through his authentic voice and style in 2016.”

Kent is the third winner of Durango’s annual contest that invites talented singer-songwriters to post a video singing an original song for the chance to win a yearlong, once-in-a-lifetime experience designed to kick-start their music career.

“I am ready to hit the ground running as Durango’s Sole Performer,” said Kent. “I have really found my voice as both a singer and songwriter in the last couple of years of touring the country and my hope is through the opportunities as Durango’s Sole Performer, I can share my love for music with a whole new fan base.”

As part of his prize, Kent will be featured in a Durango marketing campaign, participate in a Carnival Music co-writing session with an on-staff writer and receive individual feedback from music industry professionals. In addition to those incredible experiences, he will also receive a wardrobe of Durango Boots, apparel from Wrangler Jeans, a Taylor Guitar and a $10,000 cash prize.

A favorite footwear brand for country, rock and indie artists, Durango has always been a staple in the music industry. Through the Sole Performer contest, Durango looks for a musician who not only represents the brand’s attitude that’s mischievous, bold and fun, but who can also engage consumers in new and meaningful ways.

Official partners of Durango’s Sole Performer contest are Carnival Music, Taylor Guitars, American Songwriter and Wrangler.