Published: October 08, 2008 10:23 am         

Colgate Country Showdown 2008

The votes are in

Shelby Price of McComb walked away the winner of this weekend’s 2008 Colgate Country Showdown in Picayune.

The national singing competition pitted locals against each other as they competed to win the opportunity to sing in the statewide competition, which will also take place in Picayune during the Fall Street Fair. As the winner, Price will represent the local radio station WRJW — the host of last weekend's leg of the competition — at the state level.

No one had to be reminded to "sing out Louise," as one by one the contestants took to the stage and poured out two soulful tunes each. Some of the contestants chose to sing original songs while others stuck to performing back to back country classics.

This weekend's competitors included Toby Broadus, Shanna Hutson, Joseph Ivey, Mollye Ladner, Sarah Meredith, Jennifer Leigh Meyers, Sydney Migues, Shelby Price, Tony Russell, Wing and a Prayer, Kaycie Woitha and Kayla Woodson.

Prizes were awarded for first, second and third place performances. Five judges of various musical backgrounds determined the winners. John Pigott of WRJW lamented about the tough time the judges had determining the winner. Reportedly just a few points difference separated the winner from some of the other contestants.

For her first place spot, Price not only won a chance to compete on November 1, representing WRJW, but she also took home a trophy, framed poster, $250 cash and various other prizes. Price won for her performance of Martina McBride's “Anyway” and an original song titled “The One” — a slightly discordant ballad reflective of the many colors in relationships. Price’s perfect pitch blended beautifully with the ballad.

Contestants received extra points for performing unique, original songs, so it was no surprise when Joseph Ivey of Bay St. Louis claimed second for his fun and entertaining version of the popular Carrie Underwood tune "Before He Cheats." Sung by a woman it's a country torch song, sung by Ivey, it was a comedy.

Third place went to Kayla Woodson from Louisiana, the tiny girl with the auditorium filling voice. She sang one original song titled “Empty” and Brenda Lee's “Kansas City.”

While some numbers pleased the crowd more than others, all the contestants seemed comfortable in the limelight.

Mosey on down to the Street Fair to cheer on Price, at the state competition at 3 p.m., November 1 at Jack Read Park in Picayune. The event will be hosted by Picayune Main Street, Inc. Tickets are available through the PMHS girls softball team and WRJW. Call 601-799-3070 for more information.