The Jamaica Star :: Entertainment :: Meet the contenders

Orale Johnson

Orale Johnson - Contributed photos

Born in Manchester, the first year Northern Caribbean University (NCU) student describes himself as a regular guy who loves music. His performance of Superstar by The Carpenters was used to show off his range and style and was obviously the right choice as it landed him in the top three from that parish.

"What makes me different is my versatility. I'm an easy-going person, easy to get along with."

The 21-year-old, who hopes to have an education degree in a few years, says that singing is definitely his special gift but he likes "to be in the kitchen". Musically there is more to him than singing. "I play the piano as well; I've been playing since I was seven," he shares.

"Jamaica should vote for me because I am the ultimate 'Rising Star'. I think I have what it takes to be the next winner. This competition is an open door to accomplish what I want in music. You have to have the personality and versatility in terms of music and I have that. My heart and my soul are for music."

Leisha Rose

Leisha Rose.

To many persons, Leisha Rose may not be the typical 'Digicel Rising Stars' contestant. A policewoman by profession, Rose auditioned at the Manchester High School in Mandeville, where she was stationed. During her audition, she impressed the judges with her sultry voice and warm personality. Performing A Moment Like This, the 26-year-old, who is originally from Trelawny, says being a law enforcement officer will undoubtedly influence her stint in the competition.

"I think I am coming with a different style pattern. Persons probably were not expecting to see a police in the competition," she said. "I am naturally talented and I have a passion and love for music. I am totally committed to the things I love, and music is one of them. It's my second love, next to my job."

Why vote for Leisha? "Jamaica should vote for me because being in the competition will make some kinda difference where the music is concerned. Based on my job there are certain types of music that I will not do in terms of violence. I see myself coming with something different as it relates especially to how females are presented and also violence across the board."

Tru Essence

Tru Essence represents a combination of undeniable talent and authenticity. The duo of Dahlia Henry and Christopher Grant, are banking on more than their performance of hits such as Live On by Beres Hammond and Marcia Griffiths, to secure the 2008 title because they have so much to offer.

In addition to singing, the two have a few other talents to offer. "I would say I'm multi-talented because I play the drums, bass guitar, rhythm guitar, keyboard; you name it, I play it. I love drama; I do a bit of creative dance. I also drive trucks because I love trucks," said Henry. Grant is just as talented: "Apart from singing, I play the keyboard and guitar. I love to read history because it's fascinating and it teaches me a lot about the past and how I can approach the future," he said.

It is for this and other reasons, that the two believe they have what it takes to become the next winner of the competition.

"Jamaica should vote for us because we bring a different flavour to the music industry. We are bringing back the feeling of a duo because we haven't been seeing that for a long time," Henry said. "We can contribute good music to the industry; music that makes people laugh, fall in love all over; songs that they can play for their kids. We can contribute great great things," Grant added.