91ÁÔÆæ sophomore wins Atlanta division of NASH Next Contest, opens for Darius Rucker
Article By: Staff
Last year, University of North Georgia (91ÁÔÆæ) student Kyle Clark entered the with the hope of becoming the next country music artist. But he didn't make it past the first round.
This year, the sophomore business administration major beat 70 other musicians to win the , which was locally sponsored by and presented by , a Cumulus radio station. is sponsoring the contest nationally.
His prize was opening for at .
"I played for about 1,000 people, which was the most I've ever played for," Clark said. "It really hasn't set in yet."
The added bonus is Clark met Rucker after the concert.
"That was a cool moment," Clark said. "I've listened to him since I got into country music. It was nice to meet the man who has influenced my music."
Now, the 19-year-old Jefferson, Georgia, native must wait and see if his winning Atlanta performance will elevate him to the finals.
About 45 winners, including Clark, from 27 states will be whittled down to 10. Country music industry professionals will pick the top 10 by watching a live performance video showcasing the contestants' best original song.
The top 10 will compete at a live concert in Nashville in early November. A panel of celebrity judges will select the NASH Next 2017 national winner, who will earn a recording contract.
"Now I'm in the process of waiting and hearing back," he said. "But performing ahead of Darius Rucker is a good consolation prize if I don't go to Nashville."
Cadets gain array of summer training
Cadets took part in a variety of trainings across the nation and in South Korea this summer.
Cadet earns award for volunteer service
Senior Jack Curry earned a President's Volunteer Service Award at the bronze level for his 180 hours of community service in 2024.
Professor, students published in international journal
Dr. Esther Morgan-Ellis, Abigail Cannon ’24 and Lily Hammond '24 had an article published in 'Choral Journal,' the international journal of the American Choral Directors Association.
Faculty trio to perform at Carnegie Hall
91ÁÔÆæ faculty members Mengyao Sun, Dr. Philip Snyder and Yeasol Kang, known as The Crown Mountain Trio, will perform on Oct. 1 at Carnegie Hall in New York City.