Chris Braide

When he was just 7 years old Chris Braide learned how to play the piano, sparking his interest in writing and performing music. By age 17, Braide inked his first publishing deal with Zomba Music.

Since then Braide has built an impressive career as a successful, chart-topping songwriter. Reflecting on his natural pop songwriting abilities, Braide has written songs for artists such as Emma Bunton to Squeeze's Glen Tilbrook.

"This Is the Night," the song he recently co-wrote for American Idol's Clay Aiken, already looks like it's going to be one of the biggest selling singles of 2003. He also co-penned "Anything is Possible," the No. 1 UK single for UK Pop Idol winner Will Young, as well as S Club 7's "Have You Ever." For "Anything is Possible," Braide and co-writer Cathy Dennis were honored with an Ivor Novello award in May 2003.

Braide is not only a songwriter, he's also a talented vocalist. In July 2003, Chris will release his own music under the band moniker Malmo for the UK indie label Dirte Records. In the past, he released hit singles like "If I Hadn't Got You" in 1996 and a poppy dance album, Life in a Minor Key, in 1997.

— Jin Moon