HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Local singers and growing talents will be able to showcase their vocals at this year’s Hoptown Idol on Sept. 13. The winner will receive $500, and a two-hour recording session with The ARC Exhibit in Hopkinsville.

Richie “Ace High” Acevedo is returning as a judge for a third year and is one of the owners of the HipHoptown USA record label and ARC Exhibit located in downtown Hopkinsville. His experience in the recording industry and past Grammy considerations put him in an ideal position to scope out local talent. Acevedo told Christian County Now that Hopkinsville has a huge untapped talent base, and their goal at the label is to help cultivate and grow that talent.

“Hoptown Idol has been a phenomenal platform for people to be able to be heard,” said Acevedo. “I’m looking for the full package, not just the vocal talent, but also, the ‘it’ factor.”

He believes that the perfect combination of singing ability, personality, and stage presence will make a participant stand out. For people who are just starting out with performing, he encourages singers to fit in as much practice as possible whether it is in front of a mirror or for family. He looks forward to working with the winner this year and is leaving the door open for potential opportunities.

“Bring your game face, be prepared. We want this to be the steppingstone in your music career to possibly get you to the right path,” he said. “My goal is to find talent in the area so a two-hour recording session may turn into a recording contract.”

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How to submit audition

This is the fourth year Hopkinsville Parks and Recreation is hosting the event as part of their downtown events series. They are taking video submissions right now for potential participants. Judges will choose four finalists from the submissions to compete, and four additional finalists will be selected from their open mic portion of the competition. Rachel Sanders with Hopkinsville Parks and Recreation added that there are only 15 open mic slots available, and they are filled on a first-come basis.

“We love presenting this opportunity for local vocalists and hobby singers to showcase their talents for the community,” said Sanders. “It always brings about a sense of comradery and friendly competition as finalists bring out supporters to cheer them on.”

Food trucks will also be on site to provide food for the crowd and supporting friends and family present. The night will kick off at 6 p.m. at Hopkinsville Founders Square on Sept. 13. Find information about how to submit a video on the Hoptown Idol event page.

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