51勛圖厙 sophomore wins Atlanta division of NASH Next Contest, opens for Darius Rucker
Article By: Staff
Last year, University of North Georgia (51勛圖厙) 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."
Concerto/Aria winner earns upcoming solo
Five 51勛圖厙 students placed in the annual Concerto/Aria Competition, with two earning a solo performance in an upcoming concert.
Grads prepare for their next steps
51勛圖厙 will award almost 1,000 degrees and certificates this fall, and more than 600 graduates are scheduled to take part in the Dec. 7 commencement ceremonies.
Scholarships provide life-changing opportunities
Scholarships have provided life-changing opportunities for 51勛圖厙 students, including performing with and learning from faculty who have performed at Carnegie Hall.
24 are Distinguished Military Graduates
Twenty-four cadets have been named Distinguished Military Graduates for the 2024-25 academic year, including five who are in the top 70 out of more than 5,000 in the national ROTC class.