SVG’s own Janet Jackson wins Star Search competition

With a name like Janet Jackson, it was inevitable that the 19-year-old would beat her fellow competitors to be crowned the winner of the recently concluded Rockstar Star Search competition.{{more}}

Jackson trumped 15 others at the SVG Fun Fest Finals held on New Year’s Eve to secure a prize of $10,000 and a 2-year recording contract for 3 albums.

But the Layou resident almost didn’t audition for the competition because she suffered from stage fright. However, thanks to encouragement from her family and fiance Meckel Edwards, Jackson went ahead, and overcame her on-stage jitters.

On her triumph, Jackson said: “I was excited because I always wanted a career in singing, and this could start something for me!”

She confessed that the overall experience, taking part in the various rounds of the competition, was “a bit frustrating and scary” – especially when deciding what song she should sing for the finals.

On the night, she sang ‘Listen’ by R&B singer Beyonce, belting out all the right notes to secure the judges’ nod.

Jackson said that she has been singing, for as far back as she can remember. When she graduated from pre-school, she sang on stage during the graduation ceremony.

Last year, Jackson graduated from the Technical College with a qualification in Business Administration.

In her spare time she enjoys reading, playing with her poodle Paris, and watching horror movies. She also has fondness for snakes!

“I like them as big as they can get!” she laughed.

And what attracts her to an animal that gives so many people the creeps?

“I love them. They’re so silent… quiet and deadly!”

Currently seeking employment, Jackson said that her goal is to achieve international success; just like her role model American Rhythm and Blues singer Jennifer Hudson. However, her interest lies solely in the Gospel musical genre.

“I grew up in the Church,” she explained. “When God blesses you, you have to work for him.”

So will Janet Jackson be St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Gospel equivalent of the superstar of the same name? She already has the name, and a powerful voice to match. Now, we will just have to watch this space to see how far she really goes.(JV)