Global Country showdown searches for emerging artists

Every year Global Country hopes to discover fresh faces at the Global Country Star Search.

Now in its 14th year, the emerging artist competition returns Saturday, June 4 at the Parkallen Kitchen and Bar as a full-day event with showdowns in the afternoon followed by a dinner and entertainment in the evening.

St. Albert country darling Hailey Benedict competes in the 13- to 17-year-old category and Morinville's Justin Hogg is giving it a go in the 18- to 30-year-old group.

“The prize is the opportunity to go to Nashville where they will compete in the North American Country Music Association International (NACMAI) competition in Pigeon Forge, Tennesee,” said show producer Bill Borgwardt.

St. Albert singer Jessy Mossop won a berth to the 2015 NACMAI and returned home from Pigeon Forge carrying a box of five first-place trophies.

“Everything I could win, I won. It was so amazing,” said a breathless Mossop at the time describing her experience.

Whether delivering an acoustic or high-energy rock country show, Mossop's powerhouse vocals always create a personal and intimate experience.

Once again, she has the opportunity to strut her stuff at Global's evening concert.

Another previous winner on the concert roster is British Columbia's Ben Klick, a singer charting on radio, writing in Nashville and booking summer festivals.

“He's the one we see has the most potential. He has a great personal style and stage presence,” Borgwardt said.

Also on tap are roots country artist Mariya Stokes, new country singer Nicky Pearson, singer-songwriter Olivia Rose and Edmonton Oil King's anthem singer Candice Ryan.

Recording artist Kayla Patrick, singer-guitarist Josh Ruzycki, vocalist Nichole Sumerlyn and Sydney Mae, a talented teen who has opened for big acts such as George Canyon and Duane Steele, will also perform an eclectic show.

“You get to see some great talent – the big names of the future. People who came in 2003 saw Brett Kissel. You never know who will be signed to the next big major label,” said Borgwardt.

From the Global Country roster five competitors were signed to major labels. They are: Brett Kissel and St. Albert's Aaron Goodvin on the Warner label; Kasha Anne from The Orchard on Royalty Records; Alee on Wix Records, and Jesse Mast on Sony.

“There's going to be some amazing talent you don't see every day. And there may be a few surprises.”

Dinner and entertainment starts at 7 p.m. Parkallen Kitchen is at 10804 – 170 St. Tickets are $10 at the door.