Just a little bit of fun has earned Squamish singer Nadine MacNeil $1,000 and a spot performing on stage at the Merritt Mountain Music Festival. On Tuesday, June 21 MacNeil won the third annual Fraser Valley Karaoke Idol, but she's not letting it go to her head.
"Karaoke for me is a lot of fun and I don't take it seriously," she said. "I feel that you can always relax and have a good time at karaoke."
The 13-week contest began well for MacNeil. The first evening was an a capella audition on April 5, MacNeil's 23rd birthday, and it only got better from there. Judges immediately whittled contestants down from 60 to 25, and every week that followed saw two singers sent home.
"All of the other contestants were awesome," said MacNeil. "If it wasn't for all the friendships that I made I don't think the contest would have been as fun as it was."
By week three, organizers began theme night. Contestants sang tunes in the old classic country, 70's disco, 80's rock, big band and crooner genres. By the time they got to the semi-finals, only five singers were left. They were then asked to choose their own songs, and then there were three. After all was said and sung, MacNeil came out on top with the prize money, vocal lessons, and a spot on stage in front of tens of thousands.
"This contest has given me that push forward in the right direction towards my singing career," said MacNeil. "I'll also be working on releasing a CD in the future. There are many people who I've met who are willing to help me further my career in singing."
MacNeil began singing on stage during the Grizzly Bar's karaoke nights at age 19. She credits the support of her family and friends who traveled to Gabby's Country Cabaret in Langley to support their star.
"Thank you all from the bottom of my heart," said MacNeil. "And we'll see you in Merritt!"
