There must be something about SAFFORD — The Venue on Main that brings out the best singers.
For the second year in a row, the judges broke the format to select four singers who will advance to the 2023 Gila Idol Finals in a qualifier held at the main venue on Thursday.
Judges typically select three finalists in each qualifier to secure a 20-man field for the finals on March 23rd at the David M. Player Center for the Arts.
Qualifying for the final was Andy Davis, who sang “I Like It, I Love It.” Natoni Leighton at the premiere singing “Redneck Woman.”
“I had a baby a few months ago and wanted to do something for myself, so I decided to audition,” Leighton said. “I wanted to do something I loved and was passionate about.”
Away from country was finalist Tanner Johnson, former Battle of the Band winner, who performed the rock song “Bleeding”.
“It’s a completely different experience than playing on stage, I can say that,” Johnson said. “I think it’s just because it’s raw and doesn’t have a guitar or bass player to cover the mess.”
The fourth finalist was Tyler King, who chose the pop song “Power of Love.” Her performance captivated the judges.
“I don’t consider myself a performer, but I sing on stage every day,” said King. “Performers are incredible creatures (and) I hope to one day be like that.”
The two singers will get another chance to reach the finals when they perform at Callback Night on March 9th at the Graham County Chamber of Commerce. it will rain. “
The judges also chose one alternate, Payton Raban, who sang “Story of My Life.” Alternates will be selected for each qualifier and a public vote will be held at GilaValleyCentral.net the week before the finals. The person with the most votes will be the finalist.
The judge was 2018 Gila Idol winner Pete McCormick. He also opened the night with a performance of the song “Whatever It Is,” with 2008 winner Adam Krohn and his 2016 winner Briana Morris.
The 2017 Darin Kamae winner sang “Time of Your Life” and “Redemption Song” during the jury deliberations.
All Thursday performances can be seen at Gila Idol 2023 Double R Grill. Gila Valley Central.Net.
The next qualifier will take place on Thursday, February 9th at 6:30pm at the Safford Bowl, sponsored by Richard’s Music.
The winner of the final on March 23rd will receive $2,000 in cash.
Sponsors of the 2023 Gila Idol include Valley Telecom Group. Mac’s NAPA Auto Parts; Richard’s Music Company; Double R Bar and Grill. Freeport-McMoran; Valley Furniture and Appliances; Tyson Richins – Edward Jones Investments; Swire Coca-Cola; Trophies ‘N Tees; KATO 1230 AM.
