In the 2014 Global Country Star Search, two St. Albert vocalists were on a winning streak.
Julia Nicholson, the gold winner in the youth division, belted out Johnny Cash’s classic anthem Folsom Prison Blues with her own special twist.
Jessy Mossop, who sang Sara Evans’ Suds in the Bucket and Lady Antebellum’s Never Alone, was runner-up in the 18 to 29 category.
“I’m so happy. I was not expecting to win. There was so much amazing talent. When they called my name I was so ecstatic,” said Nicholson.
Although barely 16, the Grade 10 Paul Kane student has notched a list of worthy achievements. She has performed at Capital Ex, Big Valley Jamboree, Leduc Rodeo, and St. Albert Idol.
As runner-up to Spruce Grove’s Nakita Kohan, the much-in-demand Mossop was surprisingly upbeat.
“I thought I did the best I could and was very satisfied with what I put out.”
The Global Country Star Search was held at the Mercury Room of the Blue Skys Café on Saturday, May 3.
“It was a great evening. There was standing room only. Earlier in the day we held the competitions and in the evening there was the concert. Friends and family showed up and there was a great deal of support,” said Global Country director Bill Borgwardt.
Since performances by both winners and runners-up were outstanding, all four singers will be sent to compete in the 2015 North American Country Music International (NACMI) competition, he said.
“We don’t always take the runners-up, but in this case we felt they were very strong and deserve a chance to go. It’s the best year we’ve had with so many and so close together in points. Usually we have one that stands out. But this year it was amazing to see the strengths and personalities.”
NACMI is an organization encompassing 25 states that provides high-level exposure to young country vocalists. In addition to competing in numerous categories, there are jam sessions and training information available.
As well as competing at NACMI in March 2015, the four singers will receive a tour of Nashville where they will tour a studio meeting Canadian songwriters, artists, and a producer.
“We give them inspiration and their first exposure to Nashville. We point them in the right direction.”
Brett Kissell, Emily Seal, Aaron Goodvin and Samantha King are just a handful of rising artists from past years who are chiseling a solid musical career.
“Everyone who goes says it was one of the best experiences they ever had. It will be fun and full of surprises,” Mossop said.
When Nicholson was asked what she would do after shaking hands with a Nashville producer, she replied, “I’d ask what it takes to make it in the music business. But first thing, I’d ask if I could play one of my songs.”
