Roland wishes to congratulate Marcus McFarlin, also known as “Elder Mac.” The young vocalist, producer, songwriter, and musician from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, entered the MPV contest in the Gospel Artist-Contemporary category, and he was recently selected as this year’s Grand Prize Winner.

We would also like to congratulate Debbie Gann, a Southern gospel singer from Mounds, Oklahoma, who was chosen as the MPV Fan Favorite.

Roland Corporation U.S. is proud to be the musical instrument sponsor for the inspiring Most Powerful Voices music contest, which is presented by UP Uplifting Entertainment (formerly Gospel Music Channel) and the American Heart Association’s Power to End Stroke campaign.

The Grand Prize Winner in each category receives a $1,500 cash prize, national recognition as the UP Download of the Week, celebrity artist coaching, and more. In addition, Roland awards $3,500 worth of new keyboard and vocal products to the winners, and a VT-12 Vocal Trainer to each of the top 10 finalists.

For more information about the contest and the winners, please visit the UP MPV contest page.

The $3,500 Roland prize package includes:

• VP-770 Vocal & Ensemble Keyboard — Allows a single musician to create realistic backing parts that range from electronic vocal textures to emulations of ensembles, choirs, and beyond.
• VE-5 Vocal Performer — A compact and mobile personal effects processor and looper for vocalists.
• VT-12 Vocal Trainer — Pocket-sized vocal training tool with illuminated pitch detection, onboard vocal guides, and backing tracks.
• VE-20 Vocal Performer — Floor pedal featuring some of the finest vocal effects technology available.