JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- The Air Force is looking for its next dynamo vocalist performer through the all-new #VocalUpload campaign, where active duty, Guard and Reserve members can upload recordings of their talent to a MyAirForceLife website to compete for prizes and performing opportunities.
In coordination with sister Air Force Services Activity programs “Mission Audition” and “OPERATION TALENT SEARCH,” #VocalUpload offers Airmen the opportunity to show their talent, win big and represent their service. The program was in effort to create a showcase of Airman talent while minimizing Airman separation from their unit and family.
“This program allows active duty, Guard and Reserve (members) to showcase their vocal talents either as a soloist, duet or part of a group,” said Robert Storck, Air Force Entertainment operations manager. “The other programs only allow soloists interested in becoming part of Tops In Blue. This new program allows people with vocal talent who are not in a position to tour to showcase their talent.”
“It will all depend upon the talent that wins the best of show,” said Storck, “but we will work to showcase their talent in representing the Air Force.”
All contestants have to do is record a video of themselves as singles, duets or groups of three to five singing with or without musical accompaniment and upload it to the #VocalUpload website, and fill out a form online. Entries will be judged on technical excellence, showmanship and their treatment and interpretation of the chosen material.
“(We’re looking for) a very talented person or group that will give that surprise factor of being so good yet still be an amateur performer,” said Jeri White, Air Force Entertainment production manager.
Registration began July 1. The deadline for submissions is August 15. Those who come in first place in each Air Force-level category receive $1,000. The Best of Show winner receives an additional $500, a trip to San Antonio to produce a professional video of their act, an opportunity to compete for the Air Force Entertainer of the Year as described above and a trip valued at $5,000 for three to Las Vegas, Los Angeles or New York City, including air fare, ground transportation, lodging and show tickets. The prize also includes potentially representing the Air Force at future special events. Winners will be announced and prizes forwarded to appropriate force support commanders for presentation Aug. 20.
For more information on all submission requirements, visit the #VocalUpload website at http://www.myairforcelife.com/Entertainer/VocalUpload.aspx.