The first CME/JAMPRO/IRIE FM Talent Search was presented between August and November 2000 and did accomplish its main objective of exposing and promoting talent from the recording business. Over three hundred performers and music producers from Jamaica submitted entries to the project. The top twelve were selected by a panel of judges and then presented to the public on IRIE FM where polls were done to select the top four. The top four performers gained the right to appear at the CME 2000 showcases.
The CME/JAMPRO/IRIE FM Talent Search has been hailed as one of the major successes of the annual Caribbean Music Expo. Resulting from the CME was a nine-song compilation CD of some of the artistes chosen by the judges. The promotional campaign associated with the CME 2000 Talent Search and CD as well as the exposure given to the top four entrants who performed at the Expo has certainly gone a far way to launch and propel the careers of artistes such as Abijah, Stevie Face and Dingo.
For Abijah, the CME 2000 showcase was his first major concert performance, and resulted in very positive reviews both locally and internationally. Abijah has in the space of less than a year gone on to perform on International Night 1 of Reggae Sumfest 2001 with the likes of Alicia Keyes, Damian “Junior Gong” Marley, Snoop Doggy Dog, Ja Rule, Freddie McGregor and Barrington Levy. He was also the highlight of the grand independence street concert in New Kingston which attracted over 20,000 patrons. Abijah’s hit single “Revelation” was also included on the CME 2000 CD.
Lovers rock singer Stevie Face has also benefited significantly from the CME Talent Search 2000 as his hit single “I’m In Love” was in fact one of the songs submitted with his entry and has been included on the CME 2000 CD. “I’m In Love” also enjoyed top 10 status on several reggae charts locally and internationally, and Stevie Face topped off his year with a great performance as opening act on the big Luther Vandross “Power of Love” concert. His performance at the CME 2000 showcase was very well received and attracted the attention of U.S. Rap artiste Doug E. Fresh who expressed an interest in working with him.
The CME Talent Search will again be a feature of CME 2002 which is slated for March 20 to 24 in Ocho Rios. Artistes and producers interested in participating will be required to submit packages which should include, four recordings on CD, publicity photo, and biography.
Further details about CME 2002 Talent Search will appear in the media.
