CHANNING Bryan is thankful for the strides that he has made since he entered Digicel Rising Stars.

Bryan, whom the judges on Sunday night chose to eliminate from the competition (he was the second of two persons with the lowest votes, the other being Brandon Williams), said the experience has been beneficial for him.

“The experience has taught me that all good things come to an end. I am going to miss the show although it requires a lot, but you learn as it goes by. This door has closed in order to make room for another door to open,” Bryan disclosed in an interview with the Jamaica Observer on Monday.

“Being on Rising Stars helped to enhance my skills where time management is concerned. It also taught me how to push through and make things work, even when you are not comfortable,” he continued.

He shared his most memorable moment.

“My most memorable moment was the 70s theme night where I sang Everything I Own. I really enjoyed myself and I really think that it was a great performance for me. The comments from the guest judge, Tessanne Chin, were also positive,” he said.

Bryan, who works as a police officer, explained his reason for entering the reality singing competition which airs Sunday nights on Television Jamaica.

“I wanted to showcase my talent and to win season 18, so I can get enough exposure to enable me to deliver good music. Music that will be of influence on the young, the middle aged, all of Jamaica and persons overseas. At this given moment, Jamaica really needs some good music. Yes, you have a few artistes doing it but the ones who are communicating negative messages are more,” said Bryan.

He said his family and co-workers have been supportive of his journey on Rising Stars.

“My friends and family are proud of me. They voted and also gave me pointers. Big up to my cousin Shannoi, who has been there right through up to the end, and my co-workers who have fully supported me,” said the Montego Bay-based Bryan.

Sunday’s theme was dubbed R&B night and the remaining seven contestants performed songs from American rhythm and blues artistes.

Ramon Johnson did an interpretation of Brian McKnight’s Back at One, while Brianna Warren did her take on Fantasia’s Lose to Win. Oshene Watson impressed with her version of Aretha Franklin’s You Make Me Feel (A Natural Woman), while Brandon Williams, who was saved by the judges, drew for the Manhattans’ Kiss and Say Goodbye.

Shaunette Cameron did a rendition of Keyshia Cole’s gold-selling single Love and Robert Ewart took on Mario’s Let Me Love You. Producer’s Pick, Mozein Sutherland, impressed with Dorothy Moore’s Misty Blue.

Guest performers were 2016 winner Elton Earlington and Magnum King of the Dancehall competitor Tatik.