Singing News National Talent Search to be held at Jackson Sings the Gospel this Summer

Singing News is excited to announce that the highly anticipated Singing News National Talent Search, presented by Singing News Brands, will take place at the Jackson Sings the Gospel event in Jackson, TN, on July 12, 2025. This premier competition provides aspiring Southern Gospel artists with an opportunity to showcase their talents and take the next step in their musical journey. Singing News has made it easy to enter by submitting a video online. The top 10 in each category will advance to the in-person competition on July 12th in Jackson, TN.

As one of the most respected platforms in Southern Gospel music, the Singing News National Talent Search has a long-standing tradition of discovering and promoting new voices. The competition at Jackson Sings the Gospel will serve as a regional qualifier, allowing participants to compete for a chance to advance to the national stage.

“We are thrilled to bring the Singing News National Talent Search to Jackson Sings the Gospel this year,” said Bill Bailey, Promoter of Jackson Sings the Gospel. “These types of competitions have launched the careers of many talented artists, and we look forward to seeing the incredible talent that will take the stage in Jackson.”

Categories:

Soloist
Group (2 or more vocalists)

Submission Process:

All entries must be submitted online at www.singingnews.com/talentsearch.
Submission Deadline: June 1, 2025
The first round will be conducted online. Submissions will be reviewed by top industry professionals to determine the Top 10 in each category.
Notification: The Top 10 finalists in each category will be notified by June 15, 2025.
Entry Fees:
- Soloist: $125
- Group: $150
- Fees are non-refundable.
- Early Bird Discount: 20% off if entered by April 1, 2025.
Video Requirement:
- A one-song video must be submitted with your entry.

Video Submission Details:

Submissions can be recorded using a phone or tablet.
Preferred format: MP4.
Ensure the audio is clear and all members are visible in the video.
This should not be a professional video – the goal is to capture your artistry in its raw and authentic form.

Live Competition:

Date: July 13, 2025 (10 AM start time, during Jackson Sings the Gospel).
Location: Jackson, TN.
The Top 10 finalists in each category will perform one song in front of a live audience.
Performances will be broadcast on Singing News TV and the Singing News Radio Network.
A panel of five judges will determine the winner in each category. Live Panel will give feedback after each performance.
Emcees: Josh Franks, Bill Bailey, and Danny Jones.

Judging Criteria: The judges will evaluate contestants based on the following categories:

Vocal Ability – Pitch, tone, and overall vocal performance.
Stage Presence – Confidence, engagement, and connection with the audience.
Song Selection – Appropriateness and impact of chosen material.
Artistry – Creativity, originality, and interpretation.
Overall Impact – Memorable performance and potential for further success.
Audience Participation and Reaction – Engagement and response from the live audience.

SCALE FROM 1-10, 10 is the highest number in each category, the total from all 6 categories will determine the winners.

Prizes: The winners in both categories will receive:

Full-page ad in Singing News Magazine.
Interview on Singing News Radio.
Interview on The Gospel Greats.
Interview on the Top 20 Countdown.
Feature article in Singing News Magazine.
Dedicated e-blast featuring both winners.
Spotlight feature on Singing News TV.
Social Media Posts highlighting the winners.
Banner Placement on the Singing News website for 6 months.
Professional Photo Shoot in Nashville
Ads designed for each asset mentioned.
Invitations to perform live at: James D. Vaughn Festival | The Ark Encounter | Creation Museum |Singing News Fan Awards in Pigeon Forge, TN. | Winter Gospel Sing
Winners will also perform during the main event at Jackson Sings the Gospel on the evening of the competition.