Final Vocalist to Join Gospel Dream Sing-Off by Vote

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This week, Americans go to the polls online to select their favorite aspiring Gospel artist from last year's "Gospel Dream" talent competition to join the final sing-off in December.

Gospel Music Channel's "American Idol"-style talent search this year will bring back one finalist from last year, by tallied votes, to join the 2006 competition. This year's nine finalists include a 38-year-old dad, a 32-year-old mother of four, and a 23-year-old graduate. Voting begins Wednesday.

"Gospel Dream" is broadcasted Wednesday nights and added to the final performances in Nashville, Tenn., on Dec. 1 is last year's winner Brian Smith who will be performing two songs from his upcoming debut album.

The "Gospel Dream" winner will win a recording contract with Sony/BMG's Zomba Gospel label – home to top gospel and Christian artists including Casting Crowns, Kirk Franklin, Michael W. Smith and Third Day among others.

Before entering the final round, finalists had to go through this year's newly added feature called "Boot Camp" – two days of rigorous music career calisthenics. Industry experts and coaches advised and critiqued each contestant's singing style and stage presence. Competitors were also assisted in fashion and makeup. The end of the two days narrowed 12 semifinalists to the final nine in a sing-off.

The fast-growing Gospel Music Channel, currently in over 3,000 cities, recently became available in Salt Lake City and surrounding areas on Comcast digital channel 485.

"Nowhere else on cable television can audiences tune in to a great mix of R&B, rock, hip-hop, country, soul, and jazz – and be confident that it is appropriate for every member of the family,” said Charles Humbard, founder and president of Gospel Music Channel, and former president of Discovery Digital Networks.

Gospel Music Channel launched in 2004 and is the first 24-hour all-music television network devoted to the best of gospel/Christian music. While still under 10 million homes, Gospel Music Channel is one of the fastest growing independent channels ever, according to Humbard.

Voting for the 10th "Gospel Dream" finalist begins Nov. 22 at 9:00 p.m. EST and ends Nov. 26 at midnight. The winner will be announced Nov. 27.

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