Karaoke - Audition Week

(photo of Ben Davy with Newmarket qualifiers Katherine Cooke and Robin Cowen)

The marathon week for Karaoke Superstar going city to city is underway!

Monday night we visited Heritage Place Mall in Owen Sound. We arrived at 5:30. Man was it quiet. Hardly any shoppers. Junky and Tony were nearly finished setting up the backdrop, the P.A and lights. We broke for a quick bite at Subway and our auditioners arrived.

In Owen Sound, one competitor didn't show up - guess he chickened out?! At the judges' table was me, along with Phil Johnston from After The Anthems and producer and former TFK guitarist Jamie Aplin. They all had great insight and advice for each performer. Jamie was checking his blackberry all night expecting to hear from his "any-minute-I'm-going-to -have-a- baby" wife. Fortunately, he didn't have to skip out early.

Newmarket was packed out. Two levels of fans watching the performers. Andy Taylor from Season 3 was judging with me, along with the owner of the Treasure House bookstore Bob Fitzgibbon. A neat advisory board - a radio guy, a retailer and an artist.

Last night we were in Huntsville. Again, packed out in the food court. Probably 100 people and standing room only. One contestant was a no-show; another was a walk-up. Only one guy performed! Hey guys - come on! Let's lay it down for the boys!

I've seen some stand-out performances already - an edgy Barlow Girl style and a Relient K style. I'm glad we have variety. It's going to be a great semifinal October 17.