More than just a contest for young aspiring artists, the “McJim Dreams Get Real,” which is now in its second year, envisions itself as a platform that could help push local music forward.
That’s why, according to organizers, it’s important for this year’s champion to come out with an original album.
“This is our way of trying to boost OPM (Original Pilipino Music). We will make sure that the winner’s first record, which will be part of his or her prize, will feature new songs—no revivals. We will be tapping some of the best local composers and arrangers for that,” project head Chris Cahilig told the Inquirer at a press conference.
Developmental experience
Contestants—especially the eventual winner—will be encouraged to write their own work. “I want this competition to be a learning and developmental experience for the hopefuls,” Cahilig said. “We want them to hone their unique talents.”
From a pool of hundreds, the number of contestants were narrowed down to 10 after a series of stringent screenings, as well as live performances. The 10 remaining hopefuls, who were introduced in the same event, will shoot their own music videos, to be posted on McJim Classic Leather’s official Facebook and YouTube accounts.
The 10 semifinalists battling for a spot in the grand finals are: Zsarina Concepcion, 18; Eiffel Manansala, 26; Carmela Ravanilla, 18; Micah Llona, 22; CJ Raneses, 20; Tricia May Casauay, 19; Erickson Malabanan, 23; Kym Penoso, 21; Abigail Mendoza, 26; and Apple Delleva, 18.
Face-off
Six artists will face-off in the finals: The three whose videos garner the most number of views will automatically advance; the remaining three, meanwhile, will be selected by the producers, who have been monitoring the progress of the contestants from the start. The finals will be held on Nov. 9 at the Music Museum in Greenhills.
Prizes also include P100,000 cash, an album, a music video grant and a talent management contract.
“There will be only one winner—no runners-up. That way we’ll be able to focus our efforts on promoting his or her very first single,” he said as he expressed optimism about the prospects of this year’s batch.
“We hope to find someone who’s talented and has a distinct voice that’s easily recognizable,” Cahilig said. “Of course having star quality is also a plus.” Allan Policarpio