Salter accepts first Idol prize in front of full house
Ten contestants took the stage last Friday night to compete in the first GC&SU Idol.
The competition was sponsored by GC&SU’s chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the Campus Activity Board. Director of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs Allia Carter said the two organizations collaborated because of the strong leadership and diversity of both groups.
GC&SU Idol drew a large crowd in the Magnolia Ballroom of Student Activities, and began with the contestants performing as a group. After each contestant performed and the judges (Dangerous Dee, Larry “Doc” Elliot and Phillip Joiner) critiqued them, the audience voted for the winner.
Rebecca Salter, a 19-year-old mass communication major from Augusta who sang “Open My Heart” by Yolanda Adams, won the title.
Salter said she was surprised to win and she enjoyed participating in the competition.
“I had a great experience,” she said. “[Winning] gives me the chance to know and recognize new people on campus because now they know who I am.”
Salter’s favorite singers and performers include Sisqo, Beyonce, and Ciara. Salter is inspired by her family, especially her mother and her grandmother.
“I sang “Open My Heart” because gospel is easier for my voice range,” Salter said.
Salter’s prize included a chance to perform at the GC&SU 2005 Homecoming Game, $100 cash and a 40 megabyte Apple iPod.
First runner up Brian George, a freshman business major, sang Brian McKnight’s “Back at One.” Sophomore psychology major Brett Chatman sang Garth Brook’s “Friends in Low Places” and won third place. George and Chatman both won cash prizes.
The GC&SU Idol competition is based on the hit television show “American Idol,” and Carter said the only difference between the two competitions is the size.
According to Carter, both “American Idol” and GC&SU Idol feature musical performers competing for prizes and notoriety in front of a panel of judges, while the viewers pick the winner.
“The Idol phenomenon is huge,” said Carter. “It’s addictive and has been compulsory viewing for millions globally. It’s the full package: the look, the personality, the style, and of course, the voice.”
“It was exciting,” said Salter of the competition. “It was one of my first times working with other people while singing, and I liked it.”
Posted by Colonnade Archives
on Feb 11 2005. Filed under Other.
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