On the judging panel beside me was Maria Lopez and Steve Jones. These guys were so insightful, offering a critique to help each performer. I believe this year, more so than the previous four seasons, our performers understood the criteria of singing songs that are "LIFE songs", since it IS a LIFE contest. A few didn't quite grasp that concept, which in the end, helped differentiate those who deserved to move on. When Maria, Steve and I debriefed near the end of the show, I had 9 people whom I really liked, so agreeding on the final 7 was a bit difficult, not wanting to overlook anyone who might be the dark horse.
Unfortunately, technically speaking, this was probably the worst event in our history. Bad sound, wrong audio tracks, silent microphones - it was inescapable. As an organization that is based on audio, the situation went from bad, to worse, to embarrassing to anger. Finally, after a dozen false starts, I prayed for the Lord's help. Things improved, somewhat, but certainly challenged our performers. During the show, our promotions manager and myself were texting through the difficulties and even considered letting a couple of competitors sing again but thought better of it, not wanting to be guilty of favouritism. To our audience and singers, I apologize for the unprofessional event. In short, our sound checks were incomplete.
We've amped up the finals with video screens, candid performer interviews on screen, a full band for a full performance sound, and more fun stuff.
Our Breakfast Club waker Ben Davy will be hosting and promises to look very dapper! Canadian recording artist Matt Brouwer will join the judges' panel and has promised to sing a couple of his radio songs and I know he'll show us how it's done, right!
Tickets are on sale now! See you there!
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