The six competitors in tomorrow's Singing for Success competition all have talent, but the question is, "who's going to win?"

The visiting judges for the Singing for Success competition told The Royal Gazette about what they will be looking for from Twanée Butterfield, Makeila Astwood, Ronald Gordon, Aimee Bento, Adrian Jones and Canjelae, on Sunday night at the Fairmont Southampton.

The judges are: Dedra N. Tate, of Unlimited Contacts Inc. Jake McKim, who is the senior director of artist development at Music World Entertainment, and Deborah McDuffie, of Arts4Jax Inc.

So, what will they be looking for in the winner?

"Aside from vocal abilities the most important thing I'd be looking for is stage presence," said Ms Tate. "In this day and age, being successful is more about the entire package – a great voice just doesn't cut it when it comes to the competitive marketplace.

"Most of the future earnings for a vocal performer will be derived from performance related activities since there are 'way' too many recoupable expenses incurred in the CD-making process."

Mr. McKim added appearance, personality and intonation to his list of important qualities.

While Ms McDuffie added that contestants will also have the ability to articulate hopes and dreams for the future.

When asked for their opinion on what made a good voice, Mr. McKim said: "It's hard to describe a good voice, but I listen for tone and texture, the ability to project and confidence."

Ms McDuffie added: "The most important criteria in a successful artist is the ability to connect with the audience.

"This has everything to do with heart.

"You can have an incredible instrument, but if you are not singing from your heart you will not make the connection with the audience that makes for a successful artist."

Ms Tate agreed: "A good voice is one that has a characteristic of its own.

"There are too many cookie cutter artists in the marketplace at the moment, which is why the ones that have an 'edge' and are most unique will stand out above the rest."

So, will they be looking at their vocal range or for a particular sound, well Ms McDuffie simply said: "Nope! You gotta make me 'believe' in you as an artist and that comes from singing from the soul."

While Ms Tate said: "Originality is key.

"An artist can have a deep, sultry voice or a five-octave range, however, it's the way they deliver the song that will make them stand out more than their vocal range."

Mr. McKim added: "I'm not looking for a particular sound, it just has to make me say, wow!"

All three of the judges got involved on the contest through their entertainment industry connections and were enthusiastic about identifying new talent.

Ms Tate said: "One of my best friends from Bermuda, Gita Blakeney, told me about the wonderful programme Kevin (Bean, of KDB Entertainment) was planned to promote the talent within Bermuda with an emphasis on singing, acting and dancing.

"All three are close to my heart and I was excited to participate in any capacity as a mentor, panellist, judge, etc. for the Success Series."

Mr. McKim said: "I was contacted by a music industry colleague, who put me in touch with Kevin Bean."

Ms McDuffie said she is dedicated to uplifting emerging vocalists in the entertainment industry.

"My experience working with music legends affords me the opportunity to help young artists who are striving to become future music legends," she said.

Asked what they thought of Mr. Bean and what he is trying to achieve with the Success Series concept, Ms Tate replied: "I think Kevin is doing a great service for the people of Bermuda by trying to create an event that will showcase the many talents of your youth.

"The scholarship element is especially appealing and I believe the Success Series will put Bermuda on the map as an entertainment hub, as Atlanta and Virginia have done for its talented communities."

Mr. McKim added: "I think the Success Series is a great concept and a wonderful opportunity for Bermuda to showcase its talent, be heard by music industry veterans, and have the chance to win scholarships and go on tour."

Ms McDuffie said: "I applaud Kevin and his work in exposing emerging artists and providing them with the opportunities to become successful in the music industry.

"We are on the same path."

The judges also said they would work with KDB Entertainment to showcase new talent from Bermuda.

"I have an incredible network with producers, singers, vocal coaches, etc. and would certainly extend my contacts to KDB Entertainment for a worthwhile artist," said Ms Tate. "The Success Series is definitely something that will bring Bermuda additional pride by showcasing multiple local talents. I think there are so many talented young people who never get any exposure because there is nothing available for them to participate in.

"The saying 'you've got to be in it to win it!' only applies if there is something to be in; for Bermuda, it certainly seems to be the Success Series!," she said, adding that she would be able to bring entertainers to the the New York area.

Tickets for the event are $65 and are available at People's Pharmacy, Shannon's Boutiques and the iStore. Doors open at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. For more information call 504-8790.