HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The sixth annual Hoptown Idol, hosted by Hopkinsville Parks and Recreation returned to Founder’s Square Friday night with nine contestants competing for $500 cash and a 2-hour recording session with local HipHoptown Records.
Ultimately, Tyler Kohrs won the first-place title after a night of performances. “When I first started in music, I knew I wanted to be a country artist and touch souls with that kind of songwriting,” Kohrs said. “I did not expect this win at all.”
A large, lively crowd of community members were seen in lawn chairs around the pavilion cheering on loved ones and strangers alike throughout the night. Contestants sang throughout a range of genres and decades of popular music, showcasing their musical style and preference. Etta James, Jelly Roll, Sam Smith and Johnny Cash name a few of the artists covered.
A panel of judges, Reginald Taylor from HipHoptown Records, Gregory Miller from Men 2 Be, and Tab Brockman, a former Parks and Rec supervisor, gave feedback after each performance and tips for the contestants if they make it to the next round.
The competition consisted of three rounds. Five contestants made it to round two and three contestants made it to the final round. The top three contestants Javon Kirzenski, Tyler Kohrs, and Lee Sims performed for the third and final time, leaving a tough choice for the judges.
The judges added that this year’s competition was the fiercest and the decision was very difficult, even from the first round. Parks and Recreation’s Hoptown Idol will return next summer to Founder’s Square to unveil more local talent.
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