There’s a lot of talent out there, and the Village Inn Bradford and Scaraoke Entertainment are hoping to discover Bradford West Gwillimbury's newest singing star.
This February, singers are showcasing their talent in the first ever Village Inn Idol singing competition.
It’s not Bradford’s first “Idol” contest. Jackie Kozak, DJ Jacster to her fans, has been hosting karaoke singing competitions for years at venues that have included the 1812 Grillhouse and Don Cherry’s Sports Grill.
Last year, there was no competition due to changing venues, but Kozak is now hosting Karaoke Nights at the Village Inn, and the contest is back.
Every Thursday in February, starting at 8 p.m., contestants will perform in front of a panel of judges that includes music producer and trained vocalist Danny Panetta, former DJ Tony Garcia, and Allan Martinez - multiple Idol winner, who “sounds just like Celine Dion,” Kozak said. On Feb. 21 and Mar. 7, they’ll be joined by celebrity judge DJ Vince Von (Vince Nestico).
A total of 44 contestants have signed up for a chance to win prizes and the title of Village Inn Idol, singing one song each at the prequalifying evenings. Four winners from each night will go on to the final March 7 at the Village Inn.
The first four singers to advance to the finals are Brian Denes, Mark Keffer known as "Cowboy Mark," Alex Zucca, and Rob Mousseau.
“We only just started the competition last week, with the first round of singers, but so far the talent is very impressive,” said DJ Jacster. “I know each week is only going to get harder and harder for the judges.”
They’ll get help from the audience. Every audience member receives a ballot and can vote for their favourite singer.
“Every year, those ballots become the tipping scale for so many of our stars,” said Kozak.
Tony Garcia, owner of Poleiro BBQ restaurant and catering, was a DJ with Funky Joe DJ Services, from 1989 to 1997. Being asked to judge “brings back a lot of memories,” he said.
“There’s some really, really good talent,” said Garcia, after the first evening of the competition. “As the show goes on, it gets better and better.”
The 16 finalists will compete on March 7, singing another two songs each and vying for first, second and third place, and a chance at prizes that include VISA cards valued at $100 to $500, a 55-inch flat-screen TV, and recording time with music producer Panetta.
The community is invited to come out to the Village Inn, at the corner of Holland Street East and Simcoe Road, every Thursday night to hear the singers and vote for their favourites. Next pre-qualifier is Feb. 14 – Valentine’s Day.
“It’s such a fun night,” said Kozak. “Everyone is such a good sport in the competition, too. Singers support one another and give each other tips. It’s heart-warming.”
