What the Tastee judges are looking for
THE chemistry between the judges Amelia ‘Milk’ Sewell, Oral Tracey and Audrey Reid as well as the talents displayed were the key factors that took the 2010 Tastee Talent Trail series to its highest viewership since it started being televised.
With each judge displaying their own style and having strong a background in television, the trio was at ease. By the time last year’s show headed into the reality series at Breezes Rio Bueno, the no- nonsense approach of the judges was well-established.
To this end, with the new season beginning on Saturday, May 7 in Portmore, St Catherine, the judges were asked the following questions:
1. Given what you experienced last year, what are your expectations this year; and
2. What advice would give to aspiring contestants?
Below are their responses.
Sewell
1. “I expect a lot from the contestants who are trying out this year. Lorna set the bar high last year, so anyone coming knows it’s not an easy road. They will have to come good and prepared. Preparation is the key to this thing, along with passion.
2. “My advice to anyone aspiring to be a Tastee star is, if this is what you really want come for it full speed, no matter what. Believe in yourself. Come with the view that even after the competition you will still be relevant on the music scene and take it all the way.”
Tracey
1. “I am looking forward to the entire journey again, expecting to see a more diverse and organised crop of performers, people who have their acts together and are serious about show business.
2. “Please turn up prepared and/or entertaining — that is my thing. Whether you are a singer, a DJ, a dancer, a poet, or a fire eater, just come and present your act and make it entertaining. If you’re not prepared and/or entertaining, I promise you will be in and out of that audition in a flash.”
Reid
1. “My expectation for this year is for the contestants to come with a winning attitude from start (audition); the full package. Let me as a judge wonder if you are a professional. I expect lots and lots of ‘wow’ factor.
2. “Please don’t come to the audition saying you’re here for the experience, or you’re just passing through. Nooooooooo!!! We have no vacancy for excuses either. I am allergic to excuses. Preparation is the key. Come as if you have experienced the big stage before. Leave all inhibitions at home. Remember, for each location you will only be given one chance to audition, and that will determine your future. Good luck, from your nice judge.”