The Finals show of Big Dog 92-7/Astral Media’s “The Next Big Thing” country talent competition was held last night at The Pump Roadhouse in Regina, with Darlene Tuleta, Blake Berglund and Jess Moskaluke aiming to convince an esteemed panel of judges that they should be named this year’s winner. Following strong performances from all three artists and a very close finish, Jess was declared the winner.
Jess started her career at the age of 15, receiving the title of "Most Promising Entertainer" at a local talent competition. She would go on to win another local talent contest, and place in the Top 200 of the 2008 Canadian Idol competition. Jess was also the champion of the 2010 Painted Hand Idol contest and the 2010 620 CKRM Big Country Talent Search. Last year, Jess made her first trip to Nashville, where she was approached by agency group Identical Entertainment. Her rich, edgy vocals impressed their team, who signed her to an artist development and publishing deal. Jess also partnered with YouTube phenomenon and recording artist Tyler Ward to release her first single and video, “Amen Hallelujah.” She is keeping busy in Canada with performances, as well as writing and working on her new studio project in Nashville. Jess is excited to share her gift and her story with the world.
The Next Big Thing started out with a healthy pool of submissions from all across Saskatchewan, which was narrowed down to nine Semi-Finalists invited to perform in three live semi-final shows. Darlene, Blake and Jess each won their Semi-Final to move forward to the Finals.
A large and enthusiastic audience was on hand to enjoy the performances and root for their favourite artist. Three music industry professionals formed the judging panel: Heather Prosak, Assistant Brand Director/Morning Show Host/News, Big Dog 92-7/Astral Media; Dayna Shiskos, Community Manager, MapleMusic Toronto; and Alain Leblanc, artist manager from Zenon Park SK. Last year’s winner, Chris Henderson, also performed a set while the judges deliberated.
Jess receives a custom-tailored prize package worth over $15,000, including $5000 cash. The artist will meet with SaskMusic, producers of the event, to choose from options such as studio time; releasing a single to national country radio; hiring a publicist; album manufacturing; professional photographs; website redesign; an all-expenses paid trip to the 2011 CCMAs; and more. The prize is designed to make a true and lasting impact on their career. Jess will also have the opportunity to perform at the Craven Country Jamboree on July 17 and to open for Dierks Bentley at the Queen City Ex on August 5.
Big Dog 92-7/Astral Media and SaskMusic congratulate the other six semi-finalists who performed on June 1, 8 and 15: Amy Nelson, FOXX Worthee, Ray Whitton, Amanda Jane Duncan, Catherine Lewans and Steve Gibson. Thank you to The Pump, our venue sponsor. A portion of the door charge from all shows went to the Big Dog Kids’ Fund.
For more information on Jess Moskaluke, please visit www.jessmoskaluke.com.
Regina’s True Country Big Dog 92-7 launched on February 20, 2008, and is owned and operated by Astral Media Radio, which operates 83 radio stations across Canada. SaskMusic is a member-based, non-profit corporation that stimulates the growth and development of the Saskatchewan music industry through leadership, promotion, training, advocacy and partnership.
