New artist Shawn McDonald has his work cut out for him. While the Christian music scene once lacked any real talent in the acoustic/folk pop/rock artist arena it now seems like there's a new entry every week. The competition for airplay, shelf space, and recognition in the minds of consumers is tough, so what to do to stand out and get noticed?

In McDonald's case the answer seems to lie in his appreciation for R&B music. Make no mistake, his album, Simply Nothing, is firmly planted in the world of acoustic folk/rock. But there is an underlying rhythmic presence that gives the project a splash of just enough difference to make it stand out in a crowded field.  

The Seattle-based singer-songwriter speaks to a core audience of 17-22 year old students, with emotion and vulnerability through his intriguing and uniquely authentic acoustic-soul sound. Shawn’s journey through childhood abandonment, substance abuse and finally encountering Christ in a powerful way, intensely impacts how he relates to young people facing their own personal demons, in a manner in which no other artist can because he has walked the path himself and now passionately steers others toward the redemptive grace of Christ. Simply Nothing is a solid debut.